Azawakh
Hound Group · Purebred · West Africa's ancient desert coursing hound — impossibly lean, gazelle-swift, and fiercely devoted
33–55 lbsWeight
23–29 inHeight
12–15 yrsLifespan
HighEnergy
Hound Group · Purebred · West Africa's ancient desert coursing hound — impossibly lean, gazelle-swift, and fiercely devoted
Watch this video for a quick overview of the Azawakh — see the breed in action before diving into the details below.
The Azawakh (pronounced "AH-za-wok") is one of the most recently AKC-recognized breeds and one of the most visually striking dogs in the world — a West African sighthound so lean that the entire skeleton and musculature is visible beneath the skin, creating an appearance that some find breathtaking and others find alarming until they understand the breed. Named for the Azawakh Valley in Mali, this breed was developed by the Tuareg, Fula, and other nomadic peoples of the Sahel region (south of the Sahara Desert in Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso, and surrounding countries) as a coursing and guarding dog over many centuries.
The Azawakh's extreme slenderness is not starvation or poor health — it is the deliberate outcome of thousands of years of selection for a desert running machine. Their body fat percentage is near zero, their muscles are visible in motion like a living anatomy chart, and their bone structure is remarkably fine for a dog of their size. They run with a distinctive double-suspension gallop — all four feet off the ground twice per stride — and can sustain speeds of 35–40 mph over extended distances in extreme heat, conditions that would defeat most other sighthounds. In the home they are deeply loyal to their family, often forming profound one-person bonds, and can be reserved to the point of shyness with strangers — a characteristic that requires careful early socialization. AKC fully recognized in 2019.
Real Azawakhs — browse photos showcasing their look, size, and personality.
Azawakhs are known for being gentle at home but single-minded on the trail. They form deep bonds with their families and thrive on consistent human connection. As a high-energy breed, they are best matched with active owners who enjoy outdoor activities and can commit to regular exercise.
Azawakhs can be trained with patience and consistency, though they may occasionally test boundaries. With proper socialization they can do well with children, though supervision is always wise.
Azawakhs are high-energy dogs that need significant daily exercise to stay physically and mentally healthy. Without adequate activity they can become restless, vocal, or destructive. They are happiest with owners who genuinely enjoy an active lifestyle.
Azawakhs have a short, low-maintenance coat that requires minimal grooming compared to longer-haired breeds. A consistent basic routine keeps them clean, comfortable, and healthy.
Azawakhs are moderately trainable and respond well to patient, consistent positive reinforcement. They benefit from clear expectations and a calm, confident trainer who establishes routines early.
Keep sessions short — 10 to 15 minutes — and always end on a success. Enrolling in a puppy or adult obedience class provides structured learning and valuable socialization.
Azawakhs are generally healthy for their size, though regular screening helps catch issues early. Responsible breeders screen breeding stock for the most common conditions, significantly reducing risk in puppies from health-tested parents.
A Azawakh is ideal for active families or individuals who genuinely enjoy outdoor activities and can commit to daily vigorous exercise. Their trainability makes them approachable for first-time owners who are prepared for an engaged lifestyle. Not the right fit for sedentary households or those with very limited time for exercise.
Azawakhs need consistent, well-portioned meals matched to their life stage. Overfeeding is one of the biggest health risks for any dog — use these guidelines and adjust based on your dog's activity level and body condition.
These are general guidelines for a medium-breed dog. Always check the feeding instructions on your specific food brand, and adjust based on activity level and body condition score.
Look for dog foods where the first ingredient is a named protein — chicken, beef, salmon, or lamb. Medium or large-breed formulas are calibrated for their metabolism and nutritional needs.
These common human foods can be toxic — even life-threatening — for dogs. Keep them safely out of reach at all times.
Always bring your Azawakh's regular food when boarding. Switching food suddenly can cause digestive upset. Provide the facility your exact feeding schedule and portion sizes.
The upfront cost of a Azawakh is just the beginning. Here's a realistic breakdown of what to expect — both to acquire one and to own one for their lifetime.
Beyond the purchase price, owning a Azawakh costs between $120–$250 per month on average. Here's where the money goes:
Over a 10–13 year lifespan, a Azawakh typically costs between $12,000–$22,000 total — depending on health, lifestyle, and the services you use.
Pet insurance is worth considering for any breed. Buying before your dog turns 1 gives the best rates and fewest pre-existing condition exclusions. Compare 2–3 providers before committing.
Because Azawakhs have such wonderful traits, they're a popular choice for intentional mixed breeding. Here are the most common — and most loved — Azawakh crosses.
Azawakh × Sloughi. Two ancient African sighthounds — lean, loyal, extraordinarily fast desert runners.
Azawakh × Greyhound. West African endurance meets European sprint speed — an ultimate coursing machine.
Azawakh × Saluki. Two of the most ancient and ethereally beautiful sighthounds combined.
Azawakh × Vizsla. Desert sighthound meets Hungarian pointer — lean, devoted, rust-gold athlete.
Azawakhs are full of surprises. Here are some of the most fascinating, funny, and heartwarming facts about this breed.