12 Things to Know Before Bringing Home an Azawakh
The Azawakh is one of those dogs that stops you in your tracks — elegant, lean, and built for speed. But don’t let that sleek frame fool you. This ancient African sighthound is more than just a pretty face. If you're thinking about bringing one home, here's what you really need to know — the good, the tricky, and everything in between.
Living With an Azawakh: What to Expect
Let’s start with the basics. Azawakhs are sighthounds, which means they were bred to hunt by sight and chase down fast-moving prey like gazelles. They can hit speeds up to 40 mph — so yes, they’re fast. But they’re also deeply loyal, protective, and surprisingly sensitive.
We’ve had experience with similar breeds in the sighthound family, and one thing they all share is a love for motion and a strong prey drive. If it moves, it’s fair game — at least in their eyes. So if you’ve got cats, rabbits, or small pets, you’ll need to socialize your Azawakh early and carefully. Even then, off-leash play in areas with tiny critters just isn’t a good idea.
They’re Not Built for Cold Weather
Coming from the Sahara, Azawakhs don’t do well in chilly or wet conditions. Their thin coats and low body fat mean they’ll need a cozy sweater or jacket when the temperature drops. A cold, wet Azawakh is not a happy Azawakh — trust us on this one.
Independent But Deeply Loyal
This breed is a mix of contradictions. They’re independent thinkers (read: stubborn), but also form powerful bonds with their people. They’re often aloof with strangers, but fiercely protective of their families. That makes them amazing watchdogs, but not always the best fit for social butterflies who want a dog that loves everyone.
Training can be a challenge. Azawakhs aren’t big on being told what to do — they’d rather figure things out on their own. So you’ll need patience, positive reinforcement, and a lot of mutual respect. Harsh methods won’t work here — they’ll just shut down or lose trust in you.
Exercise and Living Space
These dogs need daily exercise — not just a walk around the block. Think long walks or runs, or even better, lure coursing or fenced-in sprint sessions. But once they’ve had their fill of movement, they’re surprisingly mellow indoors. They’ll happily lounge on your couch most of the day, especially if they’re near their favorite humans.
Apartment dwellers, take note: Azawakhs can adapt to smaller spaces as long as they get enough physical and mental stimulation. Just don’t leave them alone all day — boredom plus pent-up energy can lead to destructive habits.
Grooming and Maintenance
One of the easiest parts about Azawakh care is grooming. Their short coat just needs a quick weekly brushing, and they rarely smell. Baths are only needed when they get into something messy (been there!). Nail trims, ear checks, and dental care are the usual routines — start young so they get used to having their paws and ears handled.
Health Things to Watch For
Azawakhs are generally hardy, but like all breeds, they have some potential health concerns. These include:
- Bloat (gastric torsion): A life-threatening condition that can strike fast. Know the signs — pacing, drooling, unproductive vomiting — and get to a vet immediately if you suspect it.
- Genetic conditions: Some may be prone to hypothyroidism or bleeding disorders like Von Willebrand disease.
- High pain tolerance: This means they might not show when they’re hurt, so regular checkups and full-body inspections are essential.
Despite their skinny look, don’t try to fatten them up. It’s normal to see their ribs — they’re built that way. Overfeeding can lead to joint issues and other problems down the line.
Not Ideal for Young Kids
Azawakhs are sensitive and don’t love chaos. Rough play from toddlers can be overwhelming or even frightening. If you’ve got very young kids, this probably isn’t the breed for you — at least not yet. Older, calmer children who understand boundaries may do fine, especially if the dog is raised with them.
Final Thoughts
Azawakhs are rare for a reason — they’re not for everyone. But if you’re an experienced dog owner who values a quiet, discerning companion with a deep bond to their people, they can be incredibly rewarding. Just be ready to put in the time — for training, exercise, and building trust.
They’re not the kind of dog you get on a whim. But for the right person or family, they’re unforgettable — graceful, loyal, and full of heart.