| The Azawakh is almond-eyed sight hound, lean and graceful, with a short, flat back and long legs. His hips appear higher than the withers. His bone structure shows clearly through the skin and musculature. His muscles lie quite flat. The Azawakh’s light, supple, elastic gait is a notable breed characteristic, as is a "bouncy gallop"or, more succinctly, as "boing". |
| Height: |
24-29 inches |
| Weight: |
33-55 pounds |
| Color(s): |
Varies, such as red, blue fawn, grizzle, blue and black, clear sand to dark fawn/brown, brindle |
| Coat: |
Short, almost absent on the belly |
| Description: |
Azawakh were bred to protect livestock. They have high energy, and tremendous endurance. The Azawakh originates from the population of pariah dogs of sub-Saharan Africa, also called bush dogs or senji, and is also closely related to the Sloughi of the Maghreb. |
| Temperament: |
Azawakh are gentle and extremely affectionate. They develop an intense bond with their owners, yet retain their independence. They are attentive, yet aloof; affectionate, yet fierce; refined, yet rugged. Many Azawakh are reserved with strangers, and may prefer not to be touched. They are not inherently toward other dogs, unless they are threatened.. Azawakh are excellent training companions for runners, and are nearly impervious to heat. Many Azawakh detest rain and cold weather. They love to dig holes in the garden. Azawakh are very social creatures, and thrive on companionship of other Azawakh. Azawakh are pack oriented and form complex social hierarchies. They have tremendous memories and are able to recognize each other after long periods of separation. They can often be found sleeping on top of each other for warmth and companionship. |
| Training: |
Azawakh require firm and fair leadership. Lifelong socialization and firm but gentle handling are critical. Well socialized and trained, they can be good with other dogs, cats, children, and strangers. |
| Care & Grooming: |
Azawakh need a high level of exercise, preferable runs in a large enclosed area. |
| Shedding: |
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| Health: |
The Azawakh is generally health, with no known incidence of hip dysplasia. There is a small occurrence of adult-onset idiopathic epilepsy in the breed. Wobbler disease or cervical vertebral instability does rarely occur. Some breeders believe this is a largely developmental problem where puppies grow too quickly due to a high-protein western diet. |
| Lifespan: |
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| Litter Size: |
4-6 puppies, average |
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