The Azawakh is a rare, elegant sighthound originating from the Sahel region of West Africa, particularly Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso. Traditionally kept by nomadic Tuareg tribes, the Azawakh was bred to guard camps, hunt game, and survive extreme desert conditions.
This is not a typical companion breed. Azawakhs are independent, reserved, and deeply loyal to their owners, often forming strong bonds with one or two people rather than everyone they meet. In the right home, they are calm, dignified, and intensely devoted. In the wrong environment, they can become anxious or withdrawn.
The Azawakh remains very rare in the UK, making careful breeder selection especially important.
The Azawakh is a tall, ultra-lean, fine-boned sighthound with a striking silhouette. Their structure reflects function: endurance, speed, and heat tolerance rather than bulk or power.
Key physical characteristics include:
A very slim, muscular body with visible musculature
Long legs and a deep chest with pronounced tuck-up
A short, fine coat that lies close to the skin
Almond-shaped eyes, often amber or dark brown
A long, thin tail carried low with a slight curve at the tip
Despite their delicate appearance, Azawakhs are physically tough and resilient.
Height:
Males: 64-74 cm
Females: 60-70 cm
Weight:
Males: 20-25 kg
Females: 15-20 kg
The Azawakh has a primitive temperament that differs significantly from modern companion breeds. They are intelligent, observant, and emotionally sensitive, but also highly independent.
They tend to be:
Aloof with strangers
Loyal and affectionate with their family
Calm indoors when exercised properly
Intelligence: High, but independent
Affection: Selective and deeply bonded
Energy level: Moderate to high
Loyalty: Extremely loyal to owners
Playfulness: Moderate
Aggression: Not aggressive, but naturally reserved
Trainability: Challenging, requires patience and respect
Guarding ability: Strong natural watchdog instincts
Azawakhs respond poorly to harsh training methods. Trust-based, positive handling is essential.
Azawakhs are naturally reserved dogs. Early, controlled socialisation is critical, but even well-socialised individuals will usually remain cautious with unfamiliar people.
With other dogs: Generally good, especially with sighthounds
With children: Best with calm, older children
With cats and small pets: High prey drive, caution required
With strangers: Aloof, distant, sometimes suspicious
This breed is not suited to busy households or frequent visitors.
The Azawakh suits experienced dog owners who understand independent breeds and value calm companionship over constant attention.
They are best suited to:
Quiet, structured homes
Owners with sighthound or primitive breed experience
Secure outdoor space for controlled exercise
First-time owners: No
Apartment living: Possible, if exercise needs are met
Left alone: Tolerates short periods only
Noise sensitivity: High
Barking: Low, but alert when needed
Drooling: Very low
Heat tolerance: Excellent
Cold tolerance: Poor, requires coats in cold weather
The Azawakh is generally a healthy, long-lived breed, with an average lifespan of 12-15 years. Due to the limited global population and careful breeding, inherited conditions are relatively uncommon.
Hypothyroidism: Can occur and requires lifelong management
Autoimmune conditions: Reported in some bloodlines
Cardiac issues: Rare but possible
Sensitivity to anaesthesia: Common in sighthounds
Responsible breeders screen breeding dogs carefully and maintain detailed health records.
Azawakhs need daily exercise, but not constant activity. They are sprinters rather than endurance runners.
Ideal exercise includes:
Daily walks
Occasional high-speed running in secure, enclosed areas
Mental stimulation and routine
Daily exercise requirement: 1-1.5 hours
Off-lead exercise: Only in fully secure areas
Due to their prey drive, recall cannot be relied upon in open spaces.
Azawakhs are naturally lean and should never be overfed. Maintaining correct body condition is essential for joint and overall health.
Puppies: Carefully portioned, high-quality food
Adults: 180-300 g per day, depending on size and activity
Sudden weight gain or loss should be addressed promptly.
The Azawakh’s coat is extremely low-maintenance:
Occasional brushing
Regular nail trimming
Ear and dental checks
Their thin skin means care should be taken to avoid abrasions.
Azawakhs form deep emotional bonds and are sensitive to stress and instability. They do best with predictable routines and calm handling. Harsh environments or inconsistent care can lead to anxiety.
The Azawakh has been bred for centuries by nomadic tribes of the Sahel as a guardian, hunter, and companion. Unlike many Western breeds, they were never bred for appearance alone; function and survival were paramount.
The breed was introduced to Europe in the late 20th century and remains rare worldwide. It is recognised by major kennel clubs, including the FCI and The Kennel Club (UK).
One of the few dog breeds originating from sub-Saharan Africa
Traditionally slept inside nomadic tents with their owners
Known for visible muscle definition and extreme athleticism
Naturally reserved, not fearful
Buying an Azawakh requires careful research and patience. Ethical breeders are few, and waiting lists are common.
Before committing:
Meet the breeder and adult dogs
Confirm health testing and pedigree documentation
Ensure the breed suits your lifestyle
Purchase price: £2,000 - £4,000
Monthly food: ~£50
Insurance: ~£40-£60 per month
Due to rarity, rescue opportunities are limited but do exist through specialist sighthound organisations.
