July 20, 2025, 1:53 pm | Read time: 5 minutes
The Azawakh, often referred to as the “African Greyhound,” is a fascinating member of the sighthound family. Originally kept by nomadic tribes such as the Tuareg in West Africa, it served as both a hunting and guard dog. Owning one requires experience, empathy, and an understanding of its unique nature.
Origin
The origins of the Azawakh date back centuries. Ancient rock paintings depict sighthound-like animals considered ancestors of this breed. Geographically, the Azawakh originates from the Sahel region, particularly the Azawakh Valley on the border between Mali and Niger, which also gives the breed its name. The nomadic peoples of the region, especially the Tuareg, used these dogs not only as hunting companions for antelopes, gazelles, and hares but also as vigilant protectors of their herds.
Their remarkable adaptability to the hot, dry climate and ability to survive under harsh conditions made the Azawakh indispensable for desert life. It wasn’t until the 1970s that the breed reached Europe, initially spread by enthusiasts and breeders. The Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) officially recognized the breed in 1981, promoting its global distribution and systematic breeding. Today, the Azawakh remains a rare but highly valued dog.
Appearance & Coat
The Azawakh is characterized by an extremely slender, tall, yet muscular build. Despite its lightness, its appearance conveys strength and endurance. The tail is long, set low, and usually ends in a slight curve. The head is narrow, with a long, straight muzzle and medium-sized, side-set hanging ears. The skin is very tight against the body, making the muscle structure clearly visible—a typical feature of sighthounds.
The Azawakh’s coat is very short, fine, and lacks an undercoat, making it particularly sensitive to cold. A wide range of colors is permissible: from sand to red to brindle. White markings on the chest and paws are also common. The elegance of its appearance, combined with its fine coat structure, makes it a particularly striking member of its group.
Character & Temperament
The Azawakh is considered sensitive, intelligent, and strongly attached to its owner. Within the family, it is affectionate, loyal, and attentive—toward strangers, it remains mostly reserved and watchful. This aloofness is not a sign of aggression but an expression of its innate caution. As a former guard dog, it is highly aware of changes in its environment and exhibits a strong protective instinct.
At the same time, the Azawakh is a calm and reserved companion that struggles with stress and loud stimuli. A close bond, gentle leadership, and a stable environment are essential for its emotional balance. Despite its independence, it remains attached to humans—provided it is met with respect and understanding.
Training
Training the Azawakh requires a delicate touch and consistency. Due to its high sensitivity, it responds strongly to the tone and mood of its owner. Strict, loud commands or even punishment are counterproductive and often lead to withdrawal or insecurity. Early training is recommended, focusing on socialization—especially with other people and dogs.
Since the Azawakh has a pronounced hunting instinct, controlled leash training and recall under distraction are particularly important. On secure grounds like sighthound racing tracks, it can safely satisfy its urge to move. With positive reinforcement and patient development, the Azawakh proves to be eager to learn and cooperative.
Proper Care & Maintenance
Azawakhs require an active yet calm environment. They need plenty of daily exercise, with free running only possible in fenced areas. Dog sports such as agility or trick training are excellent for physical and mental stimulation. In the home, the Azawakh is usually calm as long as it is well-exercised. Its lack of an undercoat makes it particularly sensitive to cold—at low temperatures, a well-fitting coat is recommended.
Coat care is straightforward: occasional brushing, especially during shedding, is sufficient. After walks in the rain or snow, it should be thoroughly dried. Azawakhs are not suited for prolonged solitude—they seek the closeness of their owner and are sensitive to emotional tensions in the household.
Nutrition
Nutritionally, the Azawakh is not much different from other dogs, but certain specifics should be considered. High-quality food with a moderate protein content—ideally not exceeding 25 percent—is advisable to prevent kidney strain. The meat content should be high, while the fat content should be relatively low. Artificial additives should be largely avoided, as sensitive animals may react allergically.
Whether dry or wet food—the quality of the ingredients is crucial. There is no need for sighthound-specific food as long as the nutrient supply is balanced. Regular weight checks also help maintain the breed’s slim figure healthily.
Susceptibility to Certain Diseases
Compared to many other breeds, the Azawakh is considered robust and largely free from hereditary diseases. However, there are some sighthound-specific peculiarities to consider. For instance, their blood values can differ significantly from those of other dog breeds, which should be taken into account during veterinary examinations. Therefore, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian with sighthound experience. Due to their low body fat, Azawakhs are particularly sensitive to anesthesia and cold. Regular preventive check-ups help identify and treat potential problems early.
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The Azawakh at a Glance
- Character: sensitive, loyal, reserved with strangers
- Size: 60–74 cm
- Weight: 15–25 kg
- Coat: short, fine, without undercoat
- Colors: sand, red, brindle, with white markings
- Special Features: high need for movement, strong hunting instinct, sensitive to cold
- Life Expectancy: 10–12 years