Azawakh
Other names: Idi, Hanshee, Oska, Rawondu

The Azawakh is a sighthound that was first bred by the peoples of the savannahs of West Africa. It has only recently gained popularity in the First World. Owners are glowing of the dog’s loving, gentle and sensitive nature. The breed shares its name with the Azawagh Valley which is located near Mali.
Key facts about the Azawakh
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Origins and history
Bred by the Tuareg tribes of the Mali savannah the Azawakh was (and still is) used as a guard dog and herd guardian. Ancient peoples that lived beneath the harsh sub-Saharan sun demanded a dog that was rugged and tolerant of heat. Only within the last ten years has the Azawakh ventured from the desert.
FCI breed nomenclature
FCI Group
Group 10 - Sighthounds
Section
Section 3 : Short-haired Sighthounds
Physical characteristics of the Azawakh
Adult size
Female : Between 24 and 28 in
Male : Between 25 and 29 in
Weight
Female : Between 33 and 44 lb
Male : Between 44 and 55 lb
Coat colour
Most seen with fawn colour and sometimes brindled with black; white fur occasionally adorns the extremities of the dog.
Type of coat
Single short and fine coat with often no hair on the belly.
Eye colour
Amber, dark amber
Description
The look of the Azawakh is of a cross between canine elegance and muscularity. It is a well-proportioned dog with a narrow head and long and lean muzzle. The long, thin tail is set low but is raised when the dog is engaged.
Good to know
This dog is relatively new to the western world. Before looking after an Azawakh, it is recommended that prospective owners learn as much as they can about the breed: its sensitivity, its special diet, and its likes and dislikes.
Temperament
Behaviour of the Azawakh
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Compatibility
Price
We do not have enough data to set an average price for an Azawakh. You’re also looking at between £120 to £150 per month to care for this dog.
Grooming
The Azawakh will enjoy weekly brushing. Bath this dog only when necessary and use a mild shampoo.
Shedding
This dog doesn't shed a lot.
Nutrition of the Azawakh
Because it has only recently departed the African savannah, the Azawakh’s diet should be similar to what its body has become accustomed to. It is advisable to feed the Azawakh food with a low to moderate protein content (22%) and a low fat content (9%).
Health of the Azawakh
Life expectancy
10 to 12 years
Strong / robust
This dog is incredibly robust and heals very quickly from injury.
Withstand heat
The Azawakh is tolerant of the heat. However, you must still make sure there is plenty of fresh water on hand for this dog. Do not leave ANY dog in a car in the summer, even if you have parked in the shade.
Withstand cold
The Azawakh does not tolerate cold and wet weather.
Tendency to put on weight
If an Azawakh is not exercised as regularly as it should be and is fed too much human or substandard food it will become obese.
Common illnesses
- Bloat
- Eosinophilic myositis
- Heart problems
- Hypothyroidism
- Seizures
- Skin allergies