Azawakh Dog Breed: Characteristics, Traits and Care Tips

Azawakh is known for its self-sensible reliant nature. They tend to be reticent with strangers but are rarely hostile, exhibiting a composed and tranquil disposition. 

Early exposure to various environments is vital for Azawakhs to adapt comfortably, as their strong-willed personalities require consistent and patient guidance. 

Despite their occasional reserve, Azawakhs are deeply devoted to their families, offering both affection and security.

Azawakh Overview

• Origin:

• The Sahel region of Africa

• Used by local communities for hunting and guarding

• Appearance:

• Elegant and slender build

• Height: 24 to 29 inches

• Weight: 35 to 55 pounds

• Short, fine coat in various colors

• Temperament:

• Intelligent and independent

• Reserved with strangers

• Loyal and affectionate with family

• Calm and composed nature

• Health:

• Average lifespan: 10 to 12 years, can reach up to 15 years

• Generally robust health

• Common health screenings: hip dysplasia, thyroid profile, heart and eye evaluations.

Azawakh History

In the Sahel, these dogs are versatile hounds with various roles. Unlike other sighthound breeds that are predominantly hunters, the Azawakh serves multiple functions that are integral to the lifestyle of the local communities.

Primarily, Azawakhs have been employed as guardians for villages and livestock. Their acute senses and swift, agile physiques make them excellent protectors, capable of deterring threats to both settlements and animals. 

They are particularly effective against predators like jackals and other wildlife that endanger livestock.

Azawakh Personality

Their blend of loyalty, intellect, and independence makes them superb companions and vigilant protectors. 

While they may seem distant at times, their connection with their family is deep and steadfast. 

Early socialization is key to helping them adapt comfortably to various environments. 

Despite their standoffish demeanor with outsiders, Azawakhs are exceptionally devoted to their loved ones, providing both affection and security. 

Their calm and composed nature, paired with their inherent protectiveness, makes them a unique and cherished breed.

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Grooming

• Hygiene Areas: Keep their genital and anal areas clean and free of mats or debris. Trim any long hair carefully to maintain cleanliness. 

• Brushing Techniques: Brush in the direction of hair growth, especially on sensitive areas like the belly and legs. This helps prevent discomfort and tangling. Approach grooming calmly and patiently to create a positive experience.

• Tail Care: Their thin, delicate tail requires careful attention.

• Routine Grooming Schedule: This routine helps maintain their overall health and appearance. Adjust grooming practices based on seasonal changes. Take breaks as needed to keep the experience positive.

Common health issues

1. Rare conditions
2. Hip dysplasia
3. Bloat

Important health screenings for breeders

• Complete blood count (CBC)

• Super Chem blood tests

• Full thyroid profile

• X-rays for hip and elbow dysplasia

• Heart and eye evaluations

• Breeding considerations:

• Wait until dogs are fully mature to identify potential seizure issues.

• Conduct DNA testing to ensure genetic diversity and low inbreeding coefficient.

Other potential health issues

• Clouding of the eye lens, impairing vision.

• Glaucoma: Increased eye pressure causing pain and vision loss.

• Heart disease: Conditions affecting the heart’s function.

• Kidney disease: Impaired kidney function affecting overall health.

• Liver disease: Liver function impairment causing various symptoms.

Azawakh Care

• Compatibility with Other Pets

• Careful Introductions: When introducing Azawakhs to other pets, especially cats or smaller animals, careful and controlled introductions are necessary to prevent their chase instincts from being triggered.

• Coexisting with Dogs: They generally get along well with other dogs, particularly if raised together, but supervision during initial interactions is advised.

• Routine: Azawakhs do well with a consistent routine. Structured training can help manage this drive, but caution is necessary when introducing them to smaller animals.

Daily Exercise

• Azawakhs are an active breed that requires substantial daily exercise.

• Routine: Azawakhs do well with a consistent routine.

• Breeder Support: If obtaining an Azawakh from a breeder, ensure they provide support and guidance. A consistent routine helps manage their energy levels and keeps them healthy.

Diet and Nutrition

• Lean cuts of meat for protein

• Limited use of fillers like corn, wheat, and soy

• Avoidance of artificial additives and preservatives

• Dental health through chew toys or dental treats

• Controlled portion sizes to prevent overfeeding

• Special diets for puppies, adults, and seniors

• Regular veterinary consultations for dietary advice

• Balanced nutrient absorption for overall health

• Nutritional support for joint health

• Dietary adjustments based on health conditions

• Monitoring treats and human food intake

• Proper storage of dog food to maintain freshness

• Consistency in feeding times and quantities

• Environmental factors affecting food intake

• Balanced pH levels for digestive health

• Monitoring for weight fluctuations

• Adjusting diet during different life stages

• Regular veterinary consultations for dietary advice and monitoring treats and human food intake are important to ensure balanced nutrient absorption for overall health.

Azawakh Training

Training Azawakhs requires patience and consistency due to their independent streak, but they are adaptable to various living conditions given sufficient space for exercise. 

Early socialization is key to acclimating them to different environments and ensuring they remain well-adjusted and confident throughout their lives.

Conclusion

The Azawakh stands out not just as a capable working dog but as a loyal companion deeply connected to its family. 

Their unique blend of intelligence, independence, and protective instincts makes them invaluable both as guardians and beloved pets, embodying the spirit of their Sahelian heritage while thriving in diverse global settings. 

Understanding and respecting their distinct needs ensures that Azawakhs can continue to enrich the lives of those fortunate enough to share their company. Azawakhs are known for their discerning and self-reliant nature. 

They tend to be reticent with strangers but are rarely hostile, exhibiting a composed and tranquil disposition. 

Early exposure to various environments is vital for Azawakh to adapt comfortably, as their strong-willed personalities require consistent and patient guidance. 

Despite their occasional reserve, Azawakh are deeply devoted to their families, offering both affection and security.

FAQS

Q1: Are Azawakhs prone to digging?

A: Azawakhs may exhibit digging behavior, especially if they are bored or not getting enough exercise. Providing them with appropriate outlets.

Q2: Are Azawakhs good with children?

A: Azawakhs can be good with children they are raised with and socialized around. They are typically gentle and patient but may prefer older, more respectful children due to their reserved nature.

Q3: Are Azawakhs prone to separation anxiety?

A: Like many dogs, Azawakhs can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods consistently. Early training and gradual alone time can help prevent this behavior.

Q4: What type of exercise do Azawakhs enjoy?

A: Azawakhs enjoy activities that allow them to run and stretch their legs. They excel in activities like lure coursing, jogging, and play sessions that engage their natural athleticism.

Q5: Are Azawakhs sensitive to cold weather?

A: Azawakhs have short coats that provide limited insulation against cold weather. They may need extra protection like a coat or sweater during chilly temperatures.

Q6: Can Azawakhs live in multi-pet households?

A: Azawakhs can live with other dogs and pets, especially if raised together and properly introduced. Supervision and careful management of interactions are key, especially with smaller animals.

Q7: Do Azawakhs require special training for recall?

A: Training Azawakhs to come when called (recall) requires patience and consistency, given their independent nature and potential for distraction by prey.

Q8: What type of exercise do Azawakhs enjoy?

A: Azawakhs enjoy activities that allow them to run and stretch their legs. They excel in activities like lure coursing, jogging, and play sessions that engage their natural athleticism.