Azawakh

Named for the Azawakh valley in the Sahara, the Azawakh is from the Sahelian zone of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso in the Sahara Desert. This lightning-fast and and elegant breed has been a guardian, hunter, and companion to tribes in that region for centuries.

Azawakhs are gentle and affectionate with their families, but they can be standoffish toward strangers and dislike being touched by people they don’t know. They’re also protective of their people and property.

The Azawakh was historically used as a sighthound, but they have been relegated to camp guardians due to the lack of game in the region. While commonly associated with the nomadic Tuareg people, they are also bred and owned by other ethnic groups such as the Peulh, Bella, and Hausa.

Weight: 33–55 lbs (15–25 kg)
Height: 24–28 in (61–71 cm)
Coat: Short and smooth.
Color: Black, Brindle, Blue Fawn, Dark Fawn, Clear Sand, Grizzle.
Speed: Maximum 40 mph
Life span: 10–13 years

Temperament: Affectionate, Loyal, Independent, Attentive, Rugged, Fierce, Refined.

Health: Prone to Hypothyrodism and bleeding disorder Von Willebrand disease.

Special Interest:
• The Azawakah is more related to the Sloughi than the Saluki.
• Like the Basenji and Tibetan Mastiff, Azawakh have a single annual estrus.
• Can run in weather over 100°F (37.8°C) that would kill a Greyhound.
• Azawakh dislike rain and cold weather.
• Its light, supple, lissome gait is a breed characteristic, as is an upright double suspension gallop.

Classifications:
FCI: Group 10, Section 3 Short-haired Sighthounds #307
AKC: Hound
ANKC: Group 4 – (Hounds)
KC (UK): Hound (Import Register)
NZKC: Hound
UKC: Sighthound & Pariah

Kennel.com RecommendsAZAWAKH COMPLETE OWNERS MANUAL