AKC Dog Breeds: Azawakh Sighthound

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Foundation Stock Service
Height: 23-29 inches   Weight: 33-55 pounds  Color: Fawn; Black Mask. White Bib On Chest, Tip Of Tail, White Stockings On Feet

Originating in Africa, this sighthound was bred by nomadic tribes for guarding, hunting, and companionship. They are exceedingly fast when running and are able to reach and sustain speeds of up to 40 miles per hour. Azawakh's are quite adept at hunting both hare and gazelle. This breed is extremely rare in North America.

General Appearance
Particularly leggy and elegant, the Azawakh sighthound gives a general impression of great fineness. His bone structure and musculature is transparent beneath fine and lean tissues (skin). This sighthound presents itself as a rangy dog whose body fits into a rectangle with Its longer sides in vertical position. The Azawakh's skin is fine, tight over the whole of the body. The hair is short, fine, down to none on the belly. Coat colors come in fawn with flecking limited to the extremities. All shades are admitted from light sable to dark fawn. The head may or may not have a black mask and the blaze is very inconsistent. The coat has a white bib and a white brush at the tip of the tail. Each of the four limbs must have compulsorily a white "stocking", at least in shape of a trace on the feet. The black brindling is admitted.

Temperament

Unlike other sighthounds, the primary function of the Azawakh in his native land is that of protector. He develops an intense bond with his owner, yet does not look to his master for instructions. Azawakh are a study in opposing tensions: attentive yet aloof, affectionate yet fierce, refined yet rugged. With those they accept, Azawakh are gentle and extremely affectionate. With strangers many are reserved and prefer not to be touched, but are not inherently aggressive. Although raised to protect livestock, they do not have innate aggression toward canine nor human unless they are threatened. Azawakh have high energy and tremendous endurance. They are excellent training companions for runners and are nearly impervious to heat. They will happily run in weather over 100 degrees Fahrenheit that would kill a Greyhound. They love to dig holes in the garden, which is great exercise for both dog (digging) and owner (filling).Many Azawakh detest rain and cold weather. Azawakh are pack oriented and form complex social hierarchies. They have tremendous memories and are able to recognize each other after long periods of separation. They can often be found sleeping on top of each other for warmth and companionship. Early socialization and structured obedience are recommended. The Azawakh breed does not respond to harsh or heavy-handed methods. They do best with motivation, respect, fairness, and firmness.

Grooming
The Azawakh breed requires occasional brushing. Bathing should only be done when absolutely necessary using a mild shampoo. Dry shampooing will suffice. It is important to regularly check the ears and paw pads. This breed is an average shedder.

Health Problems and Life Expectancy

Azawakhs are an incredibly sound coursing hound. Serious coursing injuries are rare. The dogs heal very quickly from injury. Azawakh have no known incidence of hip dysplasia. There is a small occurrence of adult-onset idiopathic epilepsy in the breed. Wobbler disease or cervical vertebral instability does rarely occur. Some breeders believe this is a largely developmental problem where puppies grow too quickly due to a high-protein western diet. Like the Basenji, the Azawakh bitch often has a single annual estrus. Unassisted birth of healthy puppies is the norm. Litter sizes are usually from 4 to 6 puppies but litters as small as 1 and as large as 8 occur. They have a life expectancy of 12 years.

Activity Level

The Azawakh is a highly active breed that requires a highly active owner. This breed is not recommended for apartment living. They do best with a large securely fenced yard or rural setting with ample opportunity to run. They excel in field hunting, lure coursing, and agility. Azawakh's enjoy free-play, family activities, hiking, jogging, and swimming.










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