Azawakh
The Good
- Devoted to their owner
- Excellently adapted to heat
- Simple to care for
- Calm when left alone
- Sheds very little
The Real
- Wilful and stubborn
- Poor tolerance for cold
- Doesn't get along well with other animals
- Tends to be dominant
- Doesn't enjoy socialising
Gallery
Breed Overview
The Azawakh (pronounced oz-a-wok) is one of Australia's rarest and most striking sighthounds - a lean, elegant hunter from the scorching sands of sub-Saharan Africa. If you've ever seen one at a Melbourne dog park or Brisbane show, you'll understand why they turn heads. These dogs are so athletically built that their ribs and muscle definition are clearly visible beneath their thin skin - it's not malnutrition, it's perfection for desert survival.
Standing up to 74 cm tall but weighing only 15-25 kg, the Azawakh embodies the phrase "built for speed." Their S-shaped silhouette, deep chest, and aerodynamic head mark them as true sprinters who rely on keen eyesight and blazing pace to course prey across open ground. In Australian homes, they're known for their calm, almost cat-like presence indoors, settling easily after exercise.
Don't expect a Golden Retriever personality though. Azawakhs are reserved, dignified dogs who form intense bonds with one person while remaining politely aloof with others. They're the strong, silent type who won't demand attention but will quietly observe everything happening in their territory. For the right owner - someone who appreciates independence and understands sighthound nature - they make incredibly loyal, low-maintenance companions. Just remember, in Australia's cooler regions, you'll need to invest in some quality dog coats for winter walks.
History
History
The Azawakh's story begins in the endless, arid regions of the Sahel zone, particularly around the Azawakh Valley spanning Mali and Niger. These ancient hunters have been the treasured companions of nomadic tribes like the Tuareg, Peul, and Hausa for potentially thousands of years, serving as both guardians of camps and swift hunters of gazelle across the desert.
Living in complete isolation from other dog breeds, the Azawakh developed into something truly unique. The harsh Saharan environment shaped every aspect of their being - their extreme leanness isn't a flaw but a feature, allowing them to regulate body temperature in scorching heat while maintaining the speed needed to chase prey across open ground.
The breed remained completely unknown outside Africa until the 1970s, when Yugoslav diplomat Dr. Pekar brought two dogs back from Burkina Faso. These weren't purchased - in traditional African culture, Azawakhs were gifted only to honoured friends. French diplomats and military personnel soon followed suit, and by the 1980s, the first Azawakhs arrived in America.
Today, they remain one of the world's rarest breeds. In Australia, finding an Azawakh requires patience and often international connections, as local breeding programs are extremely limited. The breed's rarity adds to their mystique, but also means potential owners need to do their homework and possibly join waiting lists. Unlike many modern breeds shaped by human preferences, the Azawakh remains virtually unchanged from their desert ancestors - a living piece of ancient African heritage.
Traits & Characteristics
Azawakh characteristics and temperament traits.
Caring Guide
The Azawakh is generally considered a robust, healthy breed with fewer genetic issues than many purebreds - a benefit of their natural development in harsh conditions. Most Australian owners can expect their Azawakh to live 12-15 years with proper care, though like all sighthounds, they have some unique health considerations.
The most common concern is hypothyroidism, where the thyroid gland produces insufficient hormones. This can lead to weight gain, lethargy, skin infections, and ear problems. Some research suggests a connection between hypothyroidism and seizures in Azawakhs, so Australian owners should establish care with a vet experienced in sighthound health - their physiology differs significantly from typical breeds.
Masticatory muscle myositis, affecting jaw muscles, can occur but responds well to early treatment. Watch for reluctance to open the mouth or sudden appetite loss, and seek veterinary attention immediately if noticed.
Given their athletic build, joint issues like hip dysplasia can develop, particularly in active dogs. However, this is more often activity-related than genetic. Their lean build also makes them prone to injuries from rough play or falls.
Australian owners should be particularly mindful of temperature regulation. While these dogs excel in hot climates like Darwin or Perth summers, they struggle in cooler regions. Their thin coat and minimal body fat mean they need protection in Melbourne winters or Canberra's chilly mornings.
Regular health screening, maintaining proper weight (remember, visible ribs are normal!), and choosing a sighthound-experienced veterinarian will help ensure your Azawakh thrives in the Australian climate.
Feeding an Azawakh requires understanding their unique physiology and avoiding the temptation to "fatten them up." These dogs are naturally lean - if you can't see some rib definition, they're likely overweight, which can lead to serious health complications including the dangerous condition of gastric torsion (bloat).
Australian owners should feed high-quality commercial dog food that meets nutritional standards, whether premium kibble or raw diets. The key is splitting daily portions into two meals - morning and evening - never feeding before exercise. This breed is particularly prone to bloat, so always wait at least two hours after meals before walks or play sessions.
Portion control is crucial. Despite their height, Azawakhs typically need less food than you'd expect - their efficient metabolism and lean build mean they don't require the calories of stockier breeds. Follow feeding guidelines on quality dog food packaging, but adjust based on your individual dog's condition and activity level.
Puppies need more frequent, smaller meals throughout the day to support their rapid growth phase. Adult dogs do well on twice-daily feeding schedules that fit around Australian family routines - perhaps breakfast before work and dinner after the evening walk.
Fresh water should always be available, particularly important in Australia's warmer climates where these desert-adapted dogs still need adequate hydration. Avoid feeding table scraps, especially foods toxic to dogs like chocolate, grapes, onions, and macadamia nuts.
If you're considering a raw diet popular among many Australian dog owners, consult with a veterinarian familiar with sighthounds to ensure nutritional balance. Remember, these ancient hunters have thrived on consistent, simple diets for centuries - they don't need complicated feeding regimens, just quality nutrition and proper timing.
If you're looking for a low-maintenance coat, the Azawakh is your dream dog. Their short, fine coat requires minimal grooming - perfect for busy Australian families or anyone who'd rather spend time exercising their dog than brushing them.
A weekly once-over with a soft bristle brush or rubber grooming mitt is typically sufficient to remove dead hair and distribute natural oils. During spring and autumn shedding seasons, you might need to brush twice weekly, but even then, the amount of hair is minimal compared to double-coated breeds.
Bathing is rarely necessary - Azawakhs don't develop that typical "doggy odour" that many breeds do. When they do get dirty from beach walks along the Gold Coast or muddy hikes in the Blue Mountains, often waiting for mud to dry and brushing it off is sufficient. If a bath is needed, use quality dog shampoo and ensure thorough drying, as their thin coat provides little insulation when wet.
Pay special attention to their ears, which are prone to infections due to their folded, triangular shape that can trap moisture and debris. Weekly cleaning with vet-recommended ear cleaner is essential, particularly in humid Australian climates like Brisbane or Darwin where bacterial growth thrives.
Nail trimming is important as these lean dogs don't always wear down their nails naturally, especially during Melbourne winters when outdoor activity might be limited. Check and trim nails every 2-3 weeks to prevent overgrowth that can affect their gait.
The biggest grooming challenge for Australian owners isn't the coat - it's sun protection. In harsh Australian sun, particularly for lighter-coloured dogs, consider dog-safe sunscreen on exposed skin areas. Their minimal coat also means they'll need quality dog coats for cooler Australian winters, especially in southern regions.
Training an Azawakh requires understanding you're working with an ancient breed that thinks for itself. These aren't eager-to-please Labs or biddable Border Collies - they're independent thinkers who'll evaluate whether your request makes sense before complying. Success comes through building mutual respect, not dominance.
Start socialisation early and consistently. Azawakh puppies need exposure to Australian suburban life - different people, sounds, and situations. Take them to pet-friendly Bunnings visits, local markets, and busy parks, but always on lead. Their natural wariness of strangers means early positive experiences are crucial for developing a well-adjusted adult dog.
These sighthounds respond best to positive reinforcement training with patience and consistency. Harsh corrections or repetitive drilling will shut them down completely. Keep training sessions short, interesting, and always end on a positive note. Many Australian dog sports clubs offer activities perfect for Azawakhs like lure coursing, which channels their natural hunting instincts.
Exercise needs are interesting - they're sprinters, not marathon runners. A good 30-minute off-lead run in a securely fenced area, or fast-paced walk will satisfy their physical needs. Many Australian owners find early morning or evening exercise works best, avoiding the heat of midday sun.
Mental stimulation is equally important. These intelligent dogs need jobs to do - puzzle toys, training sessions, or dog sports prevent boredom-related behavioural issues. Without adequate mental engagement, they may become destructive or overly aloof.
Always exercise on lead or in fully fenced areas. Their prey drive means a cat, rabbit, or even small dog can trigger their chase instinct, and once running, recall becomes impossible. Many Australian councils have excellent off-lead dog parks perfect for safe exercise.
Who is an ideal owner?
The Azawakh isn't for everyone, but for the right person, they're an extraordinary companion. You need to appreciate a dog who's more like a feline housemate than a typical eager-to-please canine. Think independent, dignified, and selective with affection.
Australian owners who thrive with Azawakhs tend to be experienced dog people who understand sighthound temperament. You're not looking for a social butterfly who greets every visitor with enthusiasm - you want a loyal companion who bonds deeply with you while maintaining polite distance from others. If you appreciate dogs with dignity and self-possession, you'll love this breed.
Active individuals or families work well, but you don't need to be marathon runners. These are sprinters who enjoy short bursts of intense exercise followed by long periods of calm relaxation. Perth professionals who enjoy evening beach runs, Melbourne couples who like weekend hiking, or Brisbane families with secure backyards often find Azawakhs fit perfectly into their lifestyle.
You'll need patience for training and socialisation, plus understanding that your dog might never be the neighbourhood favourite at the local dog park. They're selective about canine friendships and prefer familiar faces to new acquaintances.
Climate consideration is important for Australian owners. While they handle heat brilliantly, you'll need to invest in quality winter gear for cooler regions. They're happiest in warmer climates but adapt well to southern Australian conditions with proper preparation.
First-time dog owners should probably consider other breeds. Azawakhs need confident, consistent leadership from someone who understands that respect is earned, not demanded. But for experienced owners seeking a unique, low-maintenance companion with ancient dignity, few breeds compare.
Interesting facts about the Azawakh
Interesting Fact
The Azawakh is also known as the Tuareg Sloughi, named after the nomadic Tuareg people of the Sahara
Interesting Fact
These dogs have been companions to nomadic tribes for potentially thousands of years, serving as both guardians and hunters
Interesting Fact
The breed made its debut in the United States in the mid-1980s and has been eligible for American Kennel Club (AKC) events since 2008
Interesting Fact
In 2024, the AKC ranked them as the fifth-rarest breed in the United States
FAQ
You can expect to pay around $2,500 for an Azawakh puppy, though prices may be higher in Australia due to their extreme rarity. The limited breeding programs and need for international importation contribute to the significant cost.
Azawakhs can make excellent pets for the right family, but they're not typical family dogs. They form strong bonds with one person while remaining politely reserved with others, including children. They need experienced owners who understand their independent nature and can provide consistent training and socialisation.
Yes, surprisingly these tall dogs adapt well to apartment living in cities like Sydney or Melbourne. They're naturally calm indoors and don't require constant activity. However, they need secure areas for off-lead exercise and aren't suited to owners who can't provide adequate daily exercise and mental stimulation.
They excel in hot climates like Darwin, Brisbane, or Perth summers, but struggle in cooler regions. In Melbourne or Canberra winters, they'll need quality dog coats and may prefer indoor heating. Their thin coat provides excellent heat regulation but minimal cold protection.
Early socialisation is crucial, but they can coexist with other dogs they've known since puppyhood. Their strong prey drive means small pets like cats or rabbits may trigger their chase instinct. They generally prefer the company of other sighthounds who understand their communication style.
Despite their athletic build, they need moderate exercise - about 30 minutes of quality activity daily. They're sprinters who prefer short bursts of intense exercise rather than long walks. A good run in a fenced area or fast-paced walk typically satisfies their needs, followed by long periods of rest.