Azawakh — size comparison

The Azawakh is an exceptionally slender sighthound whose very long legs appear to dominate its short body. It has a highly tucked-up abdomen, a narrow head and small hanging ears. Short hair does not conceal its muscles or lightly outlined bones, a natural feature of its build. Movement is light and springy, and it can cross open ground very quickly.

It comes from the Sahel, including areas associated with the Azawakh valley. It accompanied Tuareg and other pastoral communities, hunting and guarding camps. Dogs were part of travelling families’ daily lives and were selected for usefulness in local conditions. European breeding developed from a small part of this extensive, varied population.

Azawakhs become strongly attached to familiar people but often remain reserved with strangers. They watch carefully and decide for themselves whether to make contact. They can be affectionate in close relationships, while showing watchfulness and considerable independence elsewhere. Fast movement attracts attention and may trigger pursuit. Sensitivity to surroundings therefore accompanies readiness for decisive action.

Measurement sources

• Wzorzec i umaszczenie
• Charakter i pielęgnacja
• AKC — długość życia, pielęgnacja i historia
• Fast CAT — najlepszy zarejestrowany sprint