Azawakh
Lean and elegant, the Azawakh is an alert sighthound known for its loyalty and reserved nature. Agile and affectionate, this breed thrives with active owners who value companionship.
Breed Characteristics

Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed.
HEIGHT
64–74 cm (male)
60–70 cm (female)
WEIGHT
20–25 kg (male)
15–20 kg (female)
LIFE EXPECTANCY
12–15 years
Azawakh: Breed snapshot
Everything you need to know about this beloved breed at a glance

Key Breed Characteristics
Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Chordata
Class
Mammalia
Order
Carnivora
Family
Canidae
Genus
Canis
Species
Canis lupus familiaris
Diet
Omnivore
"A Azawakh isn't just a pet — they're a loyal companion, a playful friend, and a loving family member all in one."
Temperament & personality
Understanding Azawakh's temperament is key to knowing if they're the right match for your lifestyle.
Personality Overview
The Azawakh is reserved with strangers, affectionate with its family, and known for its independence and gentle demeanor. This breed is sensitive and bonds closely with trusted people.
Key Personality Traits
Reserved with strangers, affectionate with family
Learns quickly, responsive to consistent training
High stamina, thrives on daily exercise
Not highly playful, prefers calm activity
Adapts moderately, prefers stable environments

Strengths
- Loyal to family members
- Naturally alert and watchful
- Athletic with high endurance levels
- Low grooming requirements
- Tolerates heat and dry climates well
Challenges
- Aloof with strangers and visitors
- Sensitive to cold temperatures
- High prey drive toward small animals
- Needs ample daily exercise
- Can be stubborn during training

Protect your Azawakh
Azawakh are active and energetic, but they can develop autoimmune disorders and bloat. Get peace of mind with PetSecur's comprehensive coverage.
Intelligence & exercise needs
Azawakhs are both highly intelligent and energetic, requiring mental and physical stimulation to thrive.
🧠 Intelligence & training
Trainability
Learns with consistency
Overall rating
Azawakhs are intelligent, quick learners but can be independent and may not respond to repetitive training methods. Consistent, patient, and positive reinforcement approaches yield the best results.
Trainable Tasks:
🏃 Exercise & energy levels
Daily Exercise
60–90 minutes daily
recommended per day
This breed has high energy levels and requires daily vigorous exercise, such as running or long walks. Mental stimulation through interactive play or training helps prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
Recommended Activities:
Is this breed right for you?
Azawakhs are versatile dogs that adapt well to many lifestyles, but they're not the perfect match for everyone. Here's a quick guide to help you determine if a Azawakh would fit well in your home.
First-time Owner
Needs experienced owners for training and socialization
Apartment Living
May become bored or restless in small spaces
Active Lifestyle
Thrives with active people who enjoy outdoor activities
Kids
May be aloof or impatient with small children
Multiple Pets
Can be wary with unfamiliar dogs and pets
Being Left Alone
Dislikes being left alone for extended periods
Breed comparisons
Wondering how Azawakhs compare to other popular breeds? Check out our detailed comparison pages.
Frequently Asked Questions about Azawakh
Find answers to the most commonly asked questions about this breed
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