Azawakh
Hound Group
Height at Shoulders
Females 23.5-27.5 in, Males 25-29 in
Weight
Females 33-44 lbs, Males 44-55 lbs
Life Expectancy
12-15 yrs
History
The Azawakh originated in the Azawakh Valley of the Sahara Desert, bred by the Tuareg, Fula, and other nomadic groups to hunt gazelle, hare, wild boar, and other game. The harsh desert terrain meant that only the strongest, most rugged individuals could persist, resulting in a tough, independent breed. The Azawakh was also a loving companion, guarding the encampments but spending nights indoors with their family. Unlike other sighthounds, the Azawakh was bred to work in packs, both while hunting and guarding property.
Breed Characteristics
While not all Azawakh will display the exact characteristics typical of the breed, most share a personality and temperament can be generalized by the characteristic rankings below.
Intelligence
Affection Towards Family
Friendliness Towards Strangers
Friendliness Towards Other Dogs
Exercise Needs
★★★★☆
★★★★☆
★★☆☆☆
★★★☆☆
★★★★☆
Energy Level
Sensitivity
Noise Level
Prey Drive
Shedding
★★★☆☆
★★★☆☆
★☆☆☆☆
★★★★☆
★★★☆☆
Intelligence
★★★★☆
Affection Towards Family
★★★★☆
Friendliness Towards Strangers
★★☆☆☆
Friendliness Towards Other Dogs
★★★☆☆
Exercise Needs
★★★★☆
Energy Level
★★★☆☆
Sensitivity
★★★☆☆
Noise Level
★☆☆☆☆
Prey Drive
★★★★☆
Shedding
★★★☆☆
Common Traits
Have high exercise demands but once they are met, Azawakhs are low-key couch potatoes at home
Make great watchdogs as they will alarm bark at anything suspicious
Loyal and protective but very independent
They are sighthounds with a high prey drive and will go after anything that moves
Gentle and affectionate with family, but indifferent and aloof towards strangers
Known to have a very high pain tolerance and won't give any indication of being hurt or sick