Azawakh

The Azawakh is an affectionate dog but it is also prone to intense shyness and sensitivity. These dogs demand every ounce of love and gentleness from their owners.

A dog that likes to play and to interact but also one that startles easily. The Azawakh does not enjoy rough play.

This dog can exhibit some nervousness especially around strangers; it is also one that does not take kindly to changes in routine.

An intelligent dog with a famed long-term memory; these dogs are thinkers. They feel safest when the social hierarchy of the household is set in stone.

The Azawakh is a sighthound and as such is a formidable hunter. These days, the dog is more often tasked with herd protection but it still has a desire to chase small animals.

Azawakhs tend to be wary and shy of new people and take some time to warm to a visitor in their home. Gentle handling and patience are necessary precursors to a calm Azawakh temperament.

Although the Azawakh can function without dependence on its owner, it would rather be dependent and bonded.

The Azawakh tends to follow its owner from room to room when indoors. It is a dog that hates (and fears) solitude.

Firmness and confidence are needed for the owner of this dog. The Azawakh’s wildfulness can be a hurdle to its learning. It will also not respond to harsh correction; if subjected to crude training methods the dog is likely to become painfully shy and withdrawn.

This dog rarely barks.

Some well-trained dogs of this breed will respond to a recall.

If it is not properly looked after the Azawakh can cause extensive damage inside the house.

The Azawakh is not known to be a glutton. Its stomach is sensitive to changes in diet and it will not enjoy impromptu dinners at different times each day.

Very vivavious and attentive, the Azawakh can be aggressive towards strangers, which allows him to be a good guardian. However, important socialisation work is necessary to avoid your dog to be too aggressive.

Even a well-fenced garden is an insufficient provision for this dog. Azawakhs are known for their magnificent leaping abilities. A flat is too small and confined to keep such a highly-strung animal.

The Azawakh needs a great deal of exercise including long walks and interaction which exercises the body and mind.

An Azawakh will not enjoy travelling. Anything that disrupts its routine and carefully planned day will cause the dog to be nervous and silly. This dog is not suited to a crate.

This dog is not suited to a household where a non-canine pet already resides.

Generally speaking, the Azawakh is amicable and sociable with other dogs.

On the whole this breed is good with older children, but its dislike of boisterous play and teasing makes it an unsuitable playmate of young children.

Because it is a dog that requires a lot of exercise the Azawakh is not a good choice for people of senior years.

The Azawakh is not to be considered as a first dog. Its stubbornness and aloofness can make challenging the owner’s teaching of even the basics (such as house training).