Azawakh

A sighthound shaped by life in the Sahel

The Azawakh comes from the West African Sahel, particularly areas in Mali and Niger. Its name refers to the Azawakh region. These dogs accompanied nomadic communities, guarded their surroundings and helped with hunting. The first representatives reached Europe towards the end of the 1960s. This history helps explain the combination of watchfulness and hunting behaviour.

As a sighthound, it responds strongly to movement. A hare crossing the path can quickly become more compelling than someone calling from a distance. Its exceptionally lean body is built for speed. The international canine organisation FCI gives shoulder heights of 64 to 74 centimetres for males and 60 to 70 centimetres for females, with respective weights of 20 to 25 and 15 to 20 kilograms.

At home, it often wants to be close to familiar people. With visitors, it may prefer to observe before accepting a stroke. Guests should let it approach in its own time. Calm introductions are more helpful than several people reaching towards it. Children should have an adult’s guidance in recognising when the dog wants company and when it prefers to remain on its bed.

Small animals may trigger its hunting instincts. Knowing a cat in its own household does not necessarily change its response to an unfamiliar cat running away outdoors. Introductions to other pets should therefore take account of its previous experience and the actual encounter. Cats should have their own retreat areas, and small pets should be protected from direct contact.

Everyday life

A healthy adult Azawakh needs substantial daily walks and opportunities to move freely. A securely fenced area without access to wildlife can provide these opportunities. Running and playing together are usually more engaging than standing alone in a large garden. Calm search games and brief training exercises can add variety to walks.

Coming back when called should first be practised without strong distractions and linked to a worthwhile reward. In places with wildlife, a long lead on a well fitting harness is useful while an unwanted chase cannot reliably be prevented. The dog’s speed makes reacting at the last moment difficult.

Short, manageable tasks suit learning. Waiting calmly before a door opens could be built up and rewarded in small steps. Harsh physical corrections can damage trust. Learning to stay alone should also be gradual. If the dog remains distressed during absences, care arrangements should be adjusted and qualified help sought.

Everyday dog training: recall, a loose lead and clear communication ↗

Day-to-day care

A soft brush or grooming cloth is usually enough to keep the short coat clean. A weekly check also offers a chance to notice skin changes or small injuries. The hair is especially sparse on the belly. A well fitting coat may help in cold or wet weather if the dog feels chilled. A warm, well padded bed suits its short coat and bony build.

Nails should be checked regularly so they do not interfere with running. Dog toothpaste is appropriate for brushing the teeth. Gentle practice with lifting the lips and touching the paws makes these routines easier. Strong mouth odour, red gums or changes in chewing should be assessed by a vet.