Azawakh

The Azawakh is a tall, fine-boned sighthound from the Sahel of West Africa — a desert hound of striking elegance and a guardian's watchfulness.

History

It was bred by the nomadic peoples of the region around the Azawagh valley to course gazelle and hare across the desert and to guard the camp at night. Both roles shaped it: the speed of a sighthound and a protectiveness unusual in the group.

Temperament

The breed is known for being deeply loyal to its own people yet aloof and reserved with strangers, more territorial than most sighthounds. It is sensitive, dignified and forms strong bonds.

Care and training

It needs regular chances to run in a safe, enclosed space and gentle, patient training that suits its sensitivity. The short coat is easy, but the very lean, low-fat build feels the cold and needs a layer in winter.

Health

The breed is generally healthy; its main considerations are the anaesthetic sensitivity of a lean sighthound and, in some lines, autoimmune and thyroid conditions. These are patterns for the breed rather than a verdict on one dog; the measured facts are in the panel.