Azawakh
A lean, ancient sighthound from the Sahel, prized as both guard and hunter.
The Azawakh is a sighthound breed originating in West Africa, particularly the Sahelian zone of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso. Named after the Azawagh Valley, it is closely associated with the nomadic Tuareg people but also kept by other ethnic groups such as the Peulh, Bella, and Hausa. Genetically, the Azawakh is more closely related to the Sloughi than to the Saluki.
Quick Facts
- Country
- Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso
- Coat
- Short, fine
Facts from the source article.
Description
The Azawakh is slim and elegant, with bone structure and muscles visible through thin skin. Its eyes are almond-shaped, and the coat is very short, nearly absent on the belly. The muscles are described as dry and flat, unlike those of the Greyhound and Whippet, and similar in type to the Saluki. The FCI breed standard permits colors from clear sand to dark fawn/brown, red, and brindle, with or without a dark mask, and white markings on the bib, tail tip, and feet. Since 2015, white stockings above the elbow joint and a white collar or half collar are disqualifying in FCI member countries. Some conservationists note that in Africa, Azawakhs appear in additional colors such as blue fawn, grizzle, and rarely blue or black, with various white markings. The breed's gait is light, supple, and lissome, featuring an upright double suspension gallop.
Temperament
Bred by the Tuareg, Fula, and other nomads of the Sahara and sub-Saharan Sahel, the Azawakh was used as a guard dog and to hunt gazelle and hare at speeds up to 40 mph. The harsh Sahel environment has fostered ruggedness and independence in the breed. Unlike some sighthounds, the Azawakh hunts in packs, using its hindquarters to bump down quarry once tired. As a guard dog, it barks to alert the pack, which then gathers under the alpha dog to chase or attack predators. The breed forms intense bonds with its owner and is reserved with strangers. Azawakh have high energy and great endurance, making them excellent running companions, though many dislike rain and cold weather. They are pack-oriented, forming complex social hierarchies, and often sleep on top of each other for warmth.
Breed history
The Azawakh is relatively uncommon in Europe and North America. It may be registered with the FCI via the Federación Canófila de Puerto Rico, which is recognized by European FCI clubs and the AKC. The AKC accepted the Azawakh into the Hound group in 2019, with the American Azawakh Association as its parent club. The breed is also registrable with the UKC and ARBA, but not yet with the CKC. Azawakh are eligible for ASFA and AKC lure coursing and NOFCA open field coursing events.
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