Azawakh
Profile
The Azawakh is a slender and elegant sighthound breed known for its speed and agility. Originating from West Africa, they are loyal and protective companions with a strong prey drive. Their short coat comes in various colors and patterns.
Characteristics | Details |
Dog Breed Name | Azawakh |
Breed Group | Hound Group |
Origin | West Africa |
Alternative Names | Tuareg Sloughi, Idi, Hanshee |
Suitable Weather | Warm and dry climates |
Avg. Weight | 44-55 pounds |
Avg. Height | 25-29 inches |
Life Expectancy | 10-12 years |
Coat Color | Fawn |
Coat Type | Short and fine coat |
Shedding Frequency | 14 days |
Activity Level | High |
Hypoallergenic | Yes |
Grooming | Low |
Dog Cost | $1,500 |
History
The Azawakh is an ancient breed of sighthound that originated in West Africa, specifically in the Sahel region of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso. They were originally bred by the nomadic Tuareg people for hunting and protection.
Known for their elegant appearance and incredible speed, Azawakhs have been prized by their owners for centuries.
Highlights
The Azawakh is a slender and graceful breed with a regal appearance. They are known for their long legs and sleek body, which allows them to move with speed and agility.
Azawakhs are known for their strong loyalty to their owners and their protective instincts. They are wary of strangers and make excellent guard dogs.
The Azawakh has a short coat that requires minimal grooming. They do shed, but regular brushing will help keep their coat in good condition.
Azawakhs are independent thinkers and may be stubborn at times. They are intelligent dogs that require consistent training and socialization to thrive.
Azawakhs are a high-energy breed that requires regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. They enjoy activities such as running, hiking, and playing fetch.
Appearance
The Azawakh is a slender and elegant sighthound breed known for its unique appearance and athleticism. They typically stand between 24 to 29 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 35 to 55 pounds. Their coat is short and smooth, with a variety of colors and markings including fawn, red, brindle, blue, and black. The Azawakh has a regal and noble appearance with a graceful gait and long legs.
Personality & Behaviour
The Azawakh is a sighthound breed known for its elegant and regal appearance. They are independent, loyal, and protective of their family members. Azawakhs are intelligent and quick learners, but can also be stubborn and strong-willed.
They have a high prey drive and may chase small animals, so early socialization and training are important. Despite their aloof nature with strangers, Azawakhs are affectionate and loving with their owners.
They require regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy.
Temperament
Compatibility with Children | Not Recommended for Homes with Young Children |
Compatibility with other Dogs | Requires careful supervision with other dogs |
Compatibility with Strangers | Requires Careful Supervision |
Playfulness | Highly Playful |
Protectiveness | Highly Protective |
Trainability Level | Highly Trainable |
Energy Level | High |
Barking Level | Moderate |
Need of Exercise | High |
Compatibility with Children
The Azawakh is a loyal and protective breed that can be compatible with children when properly socialized and trained. They are gentle and affectionate with their family members, including children, but may be wary of strangers.
Their high energy levels and need for exercise may make them a good match for active children who enjoy outdoor activities. It is important to supervise interactions between Azawakhs and young children to ensure mutual respect and safety.
With proper training and socialization, the Azawakh can make a loving and devoted companion for children.
Compatibility with other Pets
Azawakhs are generally compatible with other pets, especially if they are socialized from a young age. They have a strong prey drive and may not be suitable for homes with small animals like cats or rabbits.
Azawakhs are known to get along well with other dogs, especially if they are raised together.
Proper introductions and supervision are key to ensuring a harmonious relationship between an Azawakh and other pets in the household.
Best Compatible Dogs with Azawakh
1. Saluki
2. Basenji
3. Pharaoh Hound
4. Ibizan Hound
5. Afghan Hound
Other Dog Breeds
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Care Requirements
The Azawakh is a low-maintenance breed that requires minimal grooming due to its short, smooth coat. However, they do require regular exercise to maintain their lean and muscular physique.
Daily walks or runs are recommended to keep them happy and healthy. They also thrive on mental stimulation, so providing them with interactive toys and training activities is important.
Azawakhs are sensitive dogs that require gentle and consistent training methods, as well as plenty of socialization to prevent any shyness or aggression towards strangers.
Monthly Maintenance Cost
The Azawakh is a low-maintenance breed that requires minimal grooming and veterinary care. However, there are still some monthly costs associated with owning an Azawakh.
Monthly maintenance costs for an Azawakh may include:
1. Food: $30-$50
2. Grooming supplies: $10-$20
3. Flea and tick prevention: $10-$20
4. Heartworm prevention: $10-$20
5. Training classes: $50-$100
6. Veterinary check-ups: $50-$100
Overall, the monthly maintenance costs for an Azawakh are relatively low compared to other breeds.
Health
The Azawakh is a slender and elegant breed of dog that is known for its speed and agility. Like all breeds, the Azawakh is susceptible to certain health issues that owners should be aware of.
Some common health issues seen in Azawakhs include:
1. Hip dysplasia: A genetic condition that affects the hip joints and can lead to pain and mobility issues.
2. Progressive retinal atrophy: A degenerative eye disease that can eventually lead to blindness.
3. Bloat: A condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists, which can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
4. Heart disease: Azawakhs can be prone to certain heart conditions, so regular check-ups with a veterinarian are important.
To prevent these health issues and keep your Azawakh healthy, it is important to provide regular exercise, a balanced diet, and regular veterinary check-ups.
Additionally, it is important to avoid overfeeding and to monitor your dog’s weight to prevent obesity, which can exacerbate certain health issues. Proper grooming and dental care are also important for maintaining your Azawakh’s overall health and well-being.
Food & Feeding
The Azawakh is a breed of dog known for its slender build and graceful appearance. When it comes to feeding an Azawakh, it is important to provide them with a high-quality diet that is appropriate for their size and activity level.
This breed is known for being active and energetic, so they require a diet that is rich in protein and nutrients to support their muscle development and overall health.
Feeding an Azawakh should be done in two meals a day to help prevent bloating and other digestive issues. It is recommended to feed them a total of 1 to 1.5 cups of high-quality dry dog food per day, divided into two meals.
It is important to monitor their weight and adjust their food intake accordingly to prevent obesity.
When choosing a dog food for an Azawakh, look for options that are specifically formulated for medium to large breed dogs with high energy levels. Avoid feeding them table scraps or human food, as this can lead to obesity and other health issues.
Providing fresh water at all times is also essential for keeping your Azawakh healthy and hydrated.
Fun Facts About Azawakh
The Azawakh is a rare and ancient breed of sighthound that originated in West Africa, specifically in the Sahel region of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso.
Azawakhs are known for their elegant and slender build, with a distinctive almond-shaped head and long legs that allow them to reach impressive speeds when chasing prey.
Despite their sleek appearance, Azawakhs are incredibly strong and agile, making them excellent hunters and guardians of their families.
Azawakhs are a highly independent and intelligent breed, known for their loyalty and affection towards their owners.
Due to their origins in the desert regions of Africa, Azawakhs have a high prey drive and may not be suitable for households with small pets or animals.
Cost
The average cost of an Azawakh dog breed ranges from $1,500 to $3,000. Prices can vary based on factors such as breeder reputation, lineage, and location. Some Azawakh puppies from champion bloodlines can cost upwards of $5,000.
