Azawakh

Azawakh
Size: Medium to Large
Other Names: Idi, Hanshee, Oska, Wulo, Taureg Sloughi (formerly)
Country of Origin: "Officially" Mali, but also Burkina Faso, Niger, southern Algeria and throughout the weste
Accreditation:
American Kennel Club (AKC): Hound
Canadian Kennel Club (CKC): Hounds
United Kennel Club (UKC): Sighthound & Pariah
Australian National Kennel Council (ANKC): Hounds
The Kennel Club (KC): Hound
Kennel Union of Southern Africa (KUSA): Hound

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".

A lean African sighthound who is quiet and clean indoors, needs little coat care, and must have safe space to run in a climate that is not wet and cold.

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.
Height
24–29 inches
Weight
33–55 pounds
Color
Varies, such as red, blue fawn, grizzle, blue and black, clear sand to dark fawn/brown, brindle
Coat
Short, almost absent on the belly
Lifespan
12–15 years
Litter size
4–6 puppies

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 and grooming

Azawakh need a high level of exercise, preferable runs in a large enclosed area.

Shedding

Very low; the fine short coat leaves little hair.

Health

Azawakhs are typically healthy, lean sighthounds.  Hypothyroidism, seizures, and sensitivity to anesthesia have been reported in some lines; use sighthound-aware veterinary protocols.

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