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Azawakh

Origin

West Africa

Size

Large Breed

Ideal Space

Independent House

Ideal Weather

18º-30ºC

Life Expectancy

12-15 years

Cost of buying

₹ 35,000 - ₹ 60,000

Top 5 Traits

Athletic

Fearless

Intelligent

Loyal

Protective

Avg Monthly Expenses

₹ 5,700 - ₹ 8,550

Tan Azawakh dog headshot with floppy ears and white chest markings

Quick Information

The Azawakh, a breed with a rich history, hails from the Sahel region of West Africa. Traditionally utilized by the nomadic Tuareg people, these dogs excelled as hunters and protectors of their encampments. Their distinctive physique—lean, long-legged, and deep-chested—is a testament to their exceptional speed and agility. Clad in a short, fine coat that comes in a variety of colors, the Azawakh is not only visually striking but also intelligent and self-reliant. While deeply devoted to their families, these dogs can be aloof with unfamiliar individuals. To ensure they develop into well-adjusted companions, early socialization and consistent training are paramount. Given their boundless energy, Azawakhs demand active owners who can provide ample exercise. However, beneath their athletic exterior lies a gentle and affectionate nature, fostering strong bonds with their loved ones.

Characteristics

Barking

Quiet

Loud

Temperament with Kids

Aggressive

Friendly

Playfulness

Silent

Very Playful

Friendliness

Not Friendly

Super Friendly

Compatibility with other dogs

Aggressive

Friendly

Need for attention

Independent

Very Needy

Monthly Expenses

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Adopt or Shop: The choice is yours!

Cost of buying

₹ 35,000 - ₹ 60,000

Buying or adopting are the two main possibilities if you're thinking about getting a Azawakh for your house.

 

Prerequisites to pet a Azawakh

Access to Veterinary

Appropriate Climate

Lifestyle Compatibility

Financial Capability

Space and Environment

Now that you know what it takes to raise a Azawakh, are you ready to take the next step to pet one?

Research: Do a thorough review of the traits, requirements, and possible health problems of the breed. Ensure that the Azawakh breed is a good fit for your lifestyle.

 

Nutrition

Monthly Food Expenses

₹ 3,000 - ₹ 4,500

Calories per day

Puppies1500 kcal

Adults1200 kcal

Essential Nutrients

Carbohydrates

Fats

Minerals

Protein

Vitamins

List of foods

Dry Dog Food

Fresh Meat

Fresh Fish

Fruits

Vegetables

Chicken

Optimal nutrition is paramount for Azawakhs to thrive. Their exceptionally active lifestyle necessitates a diet rich in high-quality protein to sustain and build lean muscle mass. A substantial proportion of fats is crucial for providing the energy required for their athletic endeavors. To ensure sustained endurance, carbohydrates should be included, focusing on easily digestible sources for quick energy release. Essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber are indispensable for bolstering the immune system, promoting bone health, and aiding digestion. Fresh fruits and vegetables offer a natural and delicious way to incorporate these vital nutrients. Sufficient hydration is essential, especially given their high activity levels. While commercial dog foods can be convenient, owners may opt for homemade meals, provided they are meticulously balanced to fulfill the dog's specific nutritional requirements. It's essential to consult with a veterinarian to tailor a diet that aligns with the individual needs of the Azawakh.

 

Breakdown of Macro-nutrients

Selecting Good Quality Food

Optimal nutrition is foundational to an Azawakh's exceptional athleticism and overall well-being. A high-quality commercial dry dog food specifically formulated for active breeds offers a robust nutritional base. These diets are meticulously balanced to provide the essential macronutrients and micronutrients required to fuel their energy expenditure. When selecting a commercial food, it is imperative to scrutinize the ingredient list, prioritizing products that feature premium animal proteins as the primary component. Avoiding fillers and artificial additives is crucial to ensure the diet is both wholesome and effective.

 

Never feed these foods to Azawakh

Avoid anything with these ingredients

Alcohol

Avocados

Cinnamon

Cherries

Coffee / Tea

Lemon

Grapes

Onions

Sugar

Salt

Dairy

Preserving the Azawakh's health necessitates a discerning approach to their diet. The consumption of commercial dog foods laden with artificial additives, preservatives, and low-quality fillers should be strictly prohibited. These subpar ingredients offer little nutritional value and can potentially induce digestive disturbances or more severe, long-term health issues. Opting for commercial dog foods that prioritize high-quality, natural ingredients is essential to provide the Azawakh with the comprehensive nourishment they require.

 
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Health

Avg Monthly Expenses

₹ 1,500 - ₹ 2,250

Common Health Issues

Bloat

Parasites

Parvovirus

Leptospirosis

Canine distemper

Heartworm

Rabies

Hip Dysplasia

Well being

Exercise

Agility Training

Bonding

Socialization

Games

Energy Level

High

Exercise routine

60 - 90 minutes

Recognising Stress

Excessive Barking

Changes in appetite

Reluctance to move

Pacing

Excessive Panting

Medical Care

The Azawakh is generally a robust breed, but like all dogs, they can be susceptible to certain health challenges. Their deep chest, characteristic of sighthounds, predisposes them to bloat, a potentially life-threatening condition requiring immediate veterinary care. Heartworm, transmitted by mosquitoes, is another significant concern, necessitating regular preventative measures. While less common than in other breeds, hip dysplasia can still affect Azawakhs, potentially leading to arthritis or lameness. Additionally, infectious diseases such as influenza, leptospirosis, Lyme disease, and parvovirus are threats, emphasizing the importance of vaccinations. Parasites like fleas, ticks, and intestinal worms can also impact their health, requiring regular preventative treatments.

 

Vaccination details

Growth Stage

Core Vaccines

6-8 weeks

DHPP (distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, and parainfluenza)

10-12 weeks

Second DHPP and rabies

14-16 weeks

Third DHPP

1 year

Rabies booster and leptospirosis

Every 3 years

Rabies booster

Recommendations to care for senior Azawakh dogs

As Azawakhs enter their senior years, comprehensive healthcare becomes increasingly critical. Regular biannual veterinary examinations are essential to detect early signs of age-related conditions. Given their predisposition to joint degeneration, the incorporation of joint supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin may be beneficial. While maintaining physical activity is crucial, exercise regimens should be modified to accommodate reduced energy levels and joint comfort, emphasizing low-impact activities.

 

Grooming

Avg Monthly Expenses

₹ 1,200 - ₹ 1,800

Shedding Level

Low Shedding

Hygienic Checklist

Bathing

Brushing

Ear Cleaning

Nail Trimming

Eye Care

Teeth Care

Benefits of Grooming

Cleanliness

Low Shedding

Odourless

Prevents infections

Prevents Bad Breath

Quality of life

The Azawakh's short, fine coat necessitates minimal grooming. Regular brushing, approximately once per week, is sufficient to remove loose hairs and distribute natural oils, maintaining coat health and luster. Bathing should be infrequent, as excessive bathing can strip the coat of essential moisture. When bathing is necessary, a mild, pH-balanced shampoo is recommended.

 
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Frequently Asked Questions

Do Azawakhs make effective guard dogs?

Azawakhs can make good guard dogs because they are inherently defensive. They form diligent watchdogs because of their keen senses and devotion to their families.

What are some effective training methods for the Azawakh breed, and can they participate in obedience training?

Azawakhs are skilled at obedience training. They are intelligent and eager to please, so positive reinforcement strategies like praise and rewards are effective.

Do Azawakhs get along with other pets?

Azawakhs can get along with other dogs, especially if they are socialized from a young age. However, they have a high prey drive and may not be suitable for homes with small pets like cats or rabbits.