Azawakh
Mali, Short-haired Sighthounds
- Size
- Large
- Height
- 60–74 cm
- Weight
- 15–25 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 yrs
- Reserved
- Loyal
- Sensitive
- Independent
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Azawakh
The Azawakh is a tall, lean sighthound from the Sahel region of West Africa, kept by nomadic Tuareg people to hunt and guard camps. It has a fine, very short coat, a long, narrow head and long legs, with prominent hip bones and little body fat. Colours include fawn, brindle and others, often with white markings.
Temperament
Reserved, aloof with strangers and fiercely loyal to its family. Sensitive and independent, with a strong chase instinct. Needs gentle, patient handling and early socialisation.
Exercise
Needs daily walks and the chance to sprint in a securely fenced area. Not for off-lead walking in open areas.
Grooming
The skin is thin and the coat barely there, so a soft cloth or glove once a week is plenty. Grooming matters less than keeping this lean dog warm and dry, and a coat for cold or wet days is sensible.
Care & wellbeing
Thin-coated, lean dogs are sensitive to cold and wet, so use a coat in cool weather. Sighthounds can be sensitive to some anaesthetics, so tell your vet. Provide a soft bed.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 20 kg adult- Water
- 800 ml–1.2 L
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 1,060 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- An occasional brush is plenty
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Azawakh
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A slender sighthound from the Sahel region of West Africa, used by nomadic peoples for hunting and guarding. Fast and elegant, it is reserved and often wary of strangers. It has a very short coat and feels the cold.
Health
There's limited reliable published information on health issues in the Azawakh. Breed clubs and your vet are the best sources.
Not every Azawakh is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Higher than average- Food, insurance and medicines cost more for a big dog
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–15 year commitment
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Azawakh right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
- This is your first dog — an independent breed can be a challenge to train
- You need a dog you can easily lift or carry
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Azawakh get?
Adult Azawakhs typically stand about 60–74 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 15–25 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Azawakhs live?
Typically 12–15 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Azawakh need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Azawakh need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Azawakhs easy to train?
Often independent-minded, so training needs patience, consistency and high-value rewards.
Do Azawakhs shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Azawakhs good with children?
They're often better suited to adults or older, calm children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Azawakh live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Mali
- Type
- Short-haired Sighthounds
- Internationally recognised
- 1980