Facts & Origin
Descent and origin of the Azawakh
Dogs resembling the Azawakh can be seen on cave paintings in the Sahel that are thousands of years old. The actual cradle of this elegant dog breed lies in the Azawakhtal, in the border area of the states Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso. The breed is still kept today by the Tuaregs as a hunting, guard and protection dog.
Breed characteristics and temperament
The Azawakh or Tuareg greyhound, is an African greyhound breed recognized by the FCI. It is listed as a breed standard in FCI Group 10 (Sighthounds), Section 3 (Shorthaired Sighthounds), Standard No. 307, without working test.
| Alternate Name | Idi |
| Origin | South Africa |
| Life expectancy | 10 - 12 years |
| Care requirements | low-maintenance |
| Activity level | high |
| FCI group | Short-haired Sighthounds |
| AKC group | Hound Group |
| KC group | Hound Group |
Attitude, character and temperament of the breed
Husbandry and Training
The Azawak is only suitable for owners with appropriate dog experience because of its distinctive strength of character and sensitivity. The dogs are lively and attentive, but behave towards people they do not know very distant, sometimes even unapproachable. On the other hand, the Azawak can be very gentle and affectionate towards people he trusts. Its upbringing requires a lot of empathy. The dog also needs a lot of exercise and is unsuitable for a city apartment. Since the hunting zeal and the hunting passion of the dogs, is hardly to be restrained, one should rather do without free run and walk him on the leash. A good occupation for these extremely fast dogs (they reach top speeds of up to 65 kilometers per hour) are dog tracks. Here the dog can run free, let off steam and take part in dog races.
The nature of these extraordinary dogs can be described as follows:
- loyal
- caring
- intelligent
- independent
Usage
Health and breeding information
Care and diet
The short hair of the Azawakh is easy to care for. It is sufficient to brush the dog regularly with a brush. This removes loose hair and also strengthens the bond between dog and human. The care is supplemented as needed by cleaning the floppy ears with an ear cleaner as well as a regular claw control and if necessary claw shortening. The Tuareg Greyhound, as it is also called, should be fed a high quality but low fat diet, with meat as the main ingredient. The protein content of the food should not exceed 25 %, otherwise kidney diseases can be the consequence in the long run. Occasional treats such as dried beef ear meat morsels and dental care snacks round out the Osca dog's diet.
Things to know
If you are considering buying an Idi dog, you should be aware that with this demanding dog comes a lot of responsibility. Questions such as future holiday planning or accommodation of the dog or possible dog hair allergies should be clarified in advance. If you are willing to invest a lot of time and get involved with the sensitive emotional world of your Azawakh, you will have a faithful and loyal companion at your side. Breeders who are dedicated to Azawakh breeding can best be found at the usual contact point for dog lovers, the Verband für das deutsche Hundewesen (VDH). Here you can also get information about a serious placement of Azawakh puppies.
Breed characteristics and appearance
The elegant looking Azawakh has a slender and delicate build. Males of this sighthound breed have a height at withers of 64 to 74 cm and a weight of 20 to 25 kg. Bitches grow to a height of 60 to 70 cm, with a weight of 15 to 20 kg. The dogs' hair is short, thin, and tends to be hairless on the belly. The coat colours are red, sand and brindle. The thin skin lies tight on the entire body. The sighthound typical long and narrow head may show a black mask, there is usually a white patch on the chest, and a white brush on the tip of the tail. The four limbs should also have white boots.
Health and Life Expectancy
These hardy greyhounds are extremely frugal and hardly prone to injuries or typical canine diseases. Life expectancy is 10 to 12 years.
| Fur length | short |
| Fur | flat coated |
| Ear shape | Floppy Ear |
| Tail | lang |
| Anatomy | slim |
| Size ♀ | 60 - 70 cm |
| Weight ♀ | 15 - 20 kg |
| Size ♂ | 64 - 74 cm |
| Weight ♂ | 20 - 25 kg |
| Suitable For | - |
