SmartBreeds.io

Azawakh

Azawakh is a large hound breed from Mali also known as African Sighthound, Tuareg Sloughi.

Browse all breeds Try the breed identifier
Azawakh

Breed overview

Azawakh is a large hound breed from Mali also known as African Sighthound, Tuareg Sloughi.

An ancient sighthound from the Sahel region of Africa, bred by the Tuareg nomads for over 1,000 years to hunt gazelles and guard camps. They're considered sacred by their people and were traditionally never sold, only given as gifts.

People looking into Azawakh usually prepare for High exercise needs, Low grooming needs, 33–55 lbs • 23–29 in.

African SighthoundTuareg Sloughi

History and origin

Azawakh is tied to originating from Mali, specifically Sahel region, with sources often placing its development around 1000 BCE.

Azawakh is described here as placed in the hound group and marked as an established breed.

An ancient sighthound from the Sahel region of Africa, bred by the Tuareg nomads for over 1,000 years to hunt gazelles and guard camps. They're considered sacred by their people and were traditionally never sold, only given as gifts.

Browse dog breeds from Mali Browse more hound breeds

Quick facts

Breed group
hound
Size
Large
Origin country
Mali
Region
Sahel region
Origin year
1000 BCE
Weight
33–55 lbs
Height
23–29 in
Lifespan
12–15 years
Breed status
Established

Traits and day-to-day fit

Energy level
4 / 5
Trainability
2 / 5
Good with children
3 / 5
Shedding level
2 / 5
Barking tendency
2 / 5
High exercise needsLow grooming needsChildren score: 3/5Trainability: 2/5

Coat and classification

Azawakh is grouped here with these coat and texture descriptors.

ShortFine

Azawakh is also listed as recognized by these kennel-club organizations.

Recognized by AKCRecognized by FCIRecognized by KCRecognized by KCA

Appearance and build

  • Extremely lean, elegant sighthound
  • Short, fine coat in sand to fawn colors
  • Very long legs and deep chest
  • Almond-shaped eyes with alert expression

What this breed is known for

  • An ancient sighthound from the Sahel region of Africa, bred by the Tuareg nomads for over 1,000 years to hunt gazelles and guard camps. They're considered sacred by their people and were traditionally never sold, only given as gifts.
  • Extremely rare outside Africa until the 1970s when a Yugoslav diplomat obtained some dogs. Most Azawakhs in the West descend from this small founding population, making them one of the rarest breeds globally.
  • Built for speed and endurance in extreme heat - they can reach speeds up to 40 mph and have exceptional heat tolerance. Their lean build and short coat help them regulate body temperature in desert climates.

Health and care notes

Azawakh is noted here for High exercise needs and Low grooming needs.

  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Cardiac Issues
  • Autoimmune Diseases

Coat details: Short, Fine

These are informational breed-guide notes, not veterinary advice.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the Azawakh come from?

Azawakh is closely associated with Mali, especially Sahel region in the sources used for this page.

How big does a Azawakh get?

Typical size details for Azawakh on this page are 33–55 lbs, 23–29 in, 12–15 years.

What is the Azawakh known for?

An ancient sighthound from the Sahel region of Africa, bred by the Tuareg nomads for over 1,000 years to hunt gazelles and guard camps. They're considered sacred by their people and were traditionally never sold, only given as gifts.

Sources and citations

References below include kennel-club profiles, breed standards, and supporting background links for deeper reading.
  1. American Kennel Club breed profile
    American Kennel Club
  2. Royal Kennel Club breed profile
    The Royal Kennel Club
  3. Royal Kennel Club breed standard
    The Royal Kennel Club • Breed standard
  4. Azawakh reference page
    Wikipedia

Use the linked breed directories and standards for deeper reference. Breed guides are informational and do not replace veterinary or breeder advice.