Breed Information
Origin
Africa
The Azawakh originates from the Sahel region of Africa, specifically Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso. While the breed has many names, the name "Azawakh" is thought to originate from the Azawagh valley (currently called the Iullemmeden Basin) that stretches across these countries. Kept and bred as guardians, hunters and companions by the nomadic Tuareg people, as well as other Sahel ethnic groups, the Azawakh is sometimes called the Tuareg Sloughi or the Idi n'illeli which translates to "the dog of the free people".
The Azawakh originates from the Sahel region of Africa, specifically Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso. While the breed has many names, the name "Azawakh" is thought to originate from the Azawagh valley (currently called the Iullemmeden Basin) that stretches across these countries. Kept and bred as guardians, hunters and companions by the nomadic Tuareg people, as well as other Sahel ethnic groups, the Azawakh is sometimes called the Tuareg Sloughi or the Idi n'illeli which translates to "the dog of the free people".
Origins in Europe
In the 1970s, the first Azawakhs were imported into France and Yugoslavia. Renato Parigi, a French artist, bred and reared several litters in Mali before returning to France and continuing to breed. Significant dogs of his included Toboro II, Aikar, Adignaz, Aourakh and Targoui. In the 1980s, Gervais Coppè imported several dogs into France from Mali, including Ejeker, B'Tekewelt, B`Kleine Drei and C'Babasch, then bred Azawakhs under the Kel Tarbanassen kennel name. Gervais bred the first brindle litters in Europe.
In the 1970s, the first Azawakhs were imported into France and Yugoslavia. Renato Parigi, a French artist, bred and reared several litters in Mali before returning to France and continuing to breed. Significant dogs of his included Toboro II, Aikar, Adignaz, Aourakh and Targoui. In the 1980s, Gervais Coppè imported several dogs into France from Mali, including Ejeker, B'Tekewelt, B`Kleine Drei and C'Babasch, then bred Azawakhs under the Kel Tarbanassen kennel name. Gervais bred the first brindle litters in Europe.
Dr. Pečar, a Yugoslavian ambassador stationed in Burkina Faso, brought several Azawakhs with him to Yugoslavia and bred them under the kennel name "od Menake". Significant dogs of his included Gao, Lara and Darkoye Sidi. Vesna Sekalec later took over his kennel and continued breeding azawakhs under the name "Haris al Sahra", a name that can be seen far back in many European pedigrees. In the late seventies, Anne and Ulrich Hochgesand (Aulad al Sahra) worked with Vesna to produce the first litter in Germany. Other significant early kennels include Ingrid Aigeldinger (Al Hara) and Monika Kessler (Kel Dahoussahaq) in Switzerland.
FCI Recognition
The breed was officially recognized by the FCI in 1980, with patronage of the breed granted to France. At first, the Azawakh was not recognized as a breed in its own right, but as a variety of the Sloughi. This was rectified in the mid eighties when the first standard for the Azawakh as its own breed was published.
The breed was officially recognized by the FCI in 1980, with patronage of the breed granted to France. At first, the Azawakh was not recognized as a breed in its own right, but as a variety of the Sloughi. This was rectified in the mid eighties when the first standard for the Azawakh as its own breed was published.
Use
Apart from being a loyal companion, walking/running partner, some Azawakh train and compete in several activities - lure coursing, racing, obedience, rally, and other dog sports. You might have to use other methods of training, as Azawakh are very clever and can become tired of boring and repeated exercises, they learn quite quickly but will anticipate treats and rewards during training.
Temperament and characteristics
Much has been said over the years about Azawakhs and their temperament. Some are less socialized or well trained for the ring; others are showed with perfection. They have a strong mind, a powerful guarding instinct, a very reserved temperament with strangers and should always be treated with the utmost respect and care. They are not vicious, evil or aggressive! They are wonderful with their family and friends, intelligent and loyal. But they are different from the rest of the Sighthound family, and they must be accepted for their uniqueness.
Size
Height at withers for male dogs 64-74cms (25-29 ins) and bitches 60-70cms (23½ -27½ ins).
Weight: dogs 20-25kgs (44-55lbs) and bitches 15-20kgs (33-44lbs).
Weight: dogs 20-25kgs (44-55lbs) and bitches 15-20kgs (33-44lbs).
Colours
The Azawakh comes in colours from light sand to dark red with/without brindle, white markings are required. In their countries of origin, and occasionally in the Western world, other colours and markings can occur. With the exception of the American Azawakh Association, the FCI or KC breed standards do no acknowledge these variations.
Care
Azawakh are very easy to groom, they do not smell 'dog', an occasional bath for 'beauty' or a really muddy walk, but a quick brush or a wipe with a damp cloth might do for everyday care. Teeth needs to be looked after - just like any other dog. Nail clipping is important, their nails should be kept well cared for, no sharp pointy nails. Because of the short coat the nails may look longer then on a dog with more coat/hair, they need well kept nails in the right length to be able to get good grip in the ground when running. Many Azawakh really dislike to have their nails done, so start early, be gently but firm, offer treats when they are good. Ears needs to be checked.
Lifespan
You can expect your Azawakh to reach the age of 9 - 10 years or much older.
Exercise
The Azawakh should have adequate exercise. Walks, running along with you as you jog or ride your bike. Running free in a safe environment, They are usually good off leash if trained properly, but it is much safer to find a fenced area where you safely can let your Azawakh run as much as he/she like. A small enclosed garden may not be enough.
Last update: February 21, 2022