Azawakh
Azavak
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Key facts
| FCI group | 10. Sighthounds |
|---|---|
| Country of origin | Mali |
| Category | Large |
| Height at withers | 60–74 cm |
| Weight | 15–25 kg |
Recognition features
- Particularly slender, dry sighthound whose bones and muscles show through thin skin
- Short, fine fawn coat from sand to mahogany with white stockings and white on the forechest
- Supple gait with high action
Purpose
A sighthound hunting game (gazelles, hares, ostriches) and fighting off predators (hyenas, jackals, lions); an important companion of nomads who shares their camp life.
History
An African sighthound descending from types pictured in Central Saharan wall paintings thousands of years old. Increasing aridity drove Tuareg, Dahoussahaq and Peul shepherd-hunters to migrate with their dogs to the Sahel along the dry Azawakh valley, where it is known as Oska. European enthusiasts discovered the breed and, from 1968, selected it with the help of breeders who owned the first exported lines.
Coat
Short, fine, down to none on the belly. Colour fawn from clear sand to dark fawn (mahogany), with or without brindling, white patching limited to the extremities (a white stocking on each limb, at least a trace on the feet) and the forechest; white must not go beyond the elbows or onto the shoulders; the muzzle may show a black mask.
Similar breeds
Learn to recognise this breed and many more
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The information is indicative. Texts are based on available sources and may contain inaccuracies; for binding details (e.g. for breeding or shows) use the official breed standard. Report a photo or rights.