Azawakh
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Appearance
| Azawakh Quick Summary | |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | |
| Origin | Africa |
| Size | Medium |
| Height (at withers) | 23-29in (58-74cm) |
| Weight | 35-55lbs (16-25kg) |
| Hair Colour(s) | Varies |
| Lifespan | 12 years |
| Energy Level | |
| Litter size | 3-7 |
| Shedding | Low |
| Grooming | Low |
| Barking Tendency | |
| Exercise requirements | Medium |
| Ease of training | Medum |
| Suitability for kids | Medium |
| Animal compatability | High |
| Aggression levels | |
| Distress if left | |
The Azawakh is almost a living caricature, with a skeletal structure that is distinguished by straight, architectural lines almost making a rectangular shape. This dog looks taller than its medium size thanks to its long legs and relatively short back. It has a long, narrow, elegant head, dark almond-shaped eyes, pigmented nose, and pendulous ears that together give the impression of great beauty. The tail is thin and set low, and may be curled, with the sickle-shape being preferable. The Azawakh has thin soft skin with short, fine hair that may be absent from the belly, and comes in many colours always with white markings.
Temperament
Azawakhs are gentle and affectionate with their owners and family but very aloof and standoffish with strangers. These are typically one-master dogs with strong territorial instincts. They are very intelligent but training can often be difficult in that they need to feel something is worth doing. Firm, consistent training is needed from day one as Azawakhs soon learn an owner's weak points and can almost become like spoilt children. Azawakhs need to be socialised from an early age and it is advisable to get a puppy from around nine weeks, and preferably no later than twelve weeks. They grow to adore their owners and will not go easily to another home as adults. They love the company of other dogs and get along well with older, more considerate children. They will live happily with other animals and even cats if introduced early enough.
History & Skills
Azawakhs have lived with the nomadic Tuareg Tribesmen for thousands of years, who probably migrated from the Sahel in the Southern region of the Sahara. Azawakhs were bred to guard and a hunt. They will protect camps from intruders and go pack hunting in relays to bring down the prey. The Azawakh covers a wide area lying in the Niger Basin which included the Azawakh valley. Niger, Burkina Faso and Mali.
Breed Specific Ailments
Azawakhs tend to live around 12 years.
Grooming
Azawakhs have an extremely short coat that is very easy to maintain, requiring only occasional brushing to remove excess hair and reduce shedding. Bathing is only required when necessary.
Exercise & Environment
Azawakhs require a medium amount of exercise. They are happy enough to potter around a garden but do need to stretch their legs at least twice a week in an enclosed and secure area. They should not be walked off the lead as they enjoy lure chasing and will often chase the first thing that catches their attention. As Azawakhs are adapted to withstand desert conditions, they have slight frames and very little body fat. They can bear some variations in heat and cold but prefer to live indoors as they like the closeness of the family group. They don't do well in cold weather (and prefer not to go outside in rainy weather) and may require a coat in winter months when outside.