Azawakh Dog Breed: Temperament, Characteristics, Diet & Health

• Loyal: Make a deep bond with the owners.
• Reserved with strangers: Not aggressive, but aloof.
• Protective: Will bark or block strangers from welcoming.
• Independent thinker: Never blindly follow the commands; needs motivation.
• Emotionally sensitive: Harsh tones can stress them out.
• Quiet indoors: Rarely barks.

This breed is perfect for owners who are themselves calm and prefer to respect the dog’s independence. 

Let’s break down some of their most defining personality traits:

Loyal but reserved with strangers:

Azawakh features a noble desert personality, but they tend to be wary of strangers. They won’t jump up to greet guests or wag their tails at strangers. However, that doesn't mean they are aggressive or will bark at strangers on their first visit. They simply assess strangers from a safe distance and prefer to observe them for a fixed period as well.

• They form a close bond with their owners and their family members.
• Avoids unnecessary interaction with strangers.
• Aloof, calm, and quietly confident.
• Easily never goes to attract the unknown.

• Needs slow introductions to warm up to the new people.

Deeply bonded with family

Though they behave reservedly in front of the unknown, at home, they are like shadows of their family members. The Azawakh built a deep bond with the trusted Persian. Their bond is not loud or overly needy-it’s emotional, deep, and lifelong.

• Emotionally attached to the owner's family members.
• Follows their trusted/favorite Persian to follow the command.
• Shows affection silently, not by jumping or licking.
• May get anxious if separated from their bonded human for too long.

• Don't like frequent rehoming or neglect.

Alert and protective

Azawakhs were bred to guard nomadic camps across the African Sahel. Still, they are living here, as theta re popular for their alert and proactive nature. Especially in any unfamiliar environments/situation-they are highly alert and naturally proactive. Even they won't hesitate to place their body or bark loudly between you and any threatening parts.

• Sharp senses, which means always being aware of surroundings
• Will bark at strangers or unexpected noises
• Can physically block strangers from approaching
• Not aggressive unless they feel seriously unsafe.

• The protective nature increases especially when the pet is deeply bonded with its owner.

Energy level and playfulness

Azawakh features a unique energy profile. That means they’re not hyper or restless indoors, but they have a lot of energy outdoors. In the vast, open desert area, they enjoy sprinting and running. However, surprisingly, they remain calm and gentle in the indoor environment. 

Also, if you talk about their playful features, they are not that playful in a traditional sense. I mean, they are not Labradors or Golden Retrievers of that type. Like the egotistic human, they also play a purposeful full. They mean they play games like chasing, running, etc. However, when playing, they also observe their surroundings with sharp alertness.

Energy Level

• High energy outdoors.
• Stack on daily sprints or long walks.
• Doesn’t need constant stimulation like herding or working breeds.
• Calm and restful indoors, as long as exercise needs are met.

• Loves routines. Active at certain times, take a rest after that.

Playfulness

• Moderately playful, but not goofy or overly interactive.
• Enjoys running games (indoor chase, fetch).
• May play independently or observe rather than engage directly.
• Very attuned to their owner’s energy; will join in play if invited.

• Not rough players tend to be elegant and graceful, even in movement.

Mental Stimulation

Although not overly playful, Azawakhs are intelligent and benefit from mental activities, such as:

• Puzzle toys or scent games.
• Quiet training sessions (with rewards).
• Exploratory walks in new environments.
• Watching activity from a window or elevated area.

Common Health Issues

Azawakhs are generally healthy and sturdy dogs, especially when you compare them to other purebreeds. However, like any other breed, they also have certain predispositions. Some of these issues may be inherited, others may be lifestyle-related. Early erection and taking proper action may bring a huge difference in your Azawakh’s health condition. Below are the most notable health concerns to watch for:

Hypothyroidism

This occurs when the thyroid glands fail to produce sufficient hormones. This hormonal imbalance leads to a slowed metabolism and several physical symptoms. It can be managed, but it can never be fully cured. Signs can include-

• Dry skin and coat.
• Hair loss.
• Susceptibility to other skin diseases.
• Weight gain.
• Fearfulness.

• Aggression, or other behavioral changes.

Autoimmune disorders (e.g., autoimmune thyroiditis, lupus)

Azawakhs have a slightly higher risk of autoimmune issues, where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells.

Azawakh faces several autoimmune-mediated diseases, such as Eosinophilic Myositis and autoimmune thyroiditis.

However, the Common types of autoimmune diseases they suffer from:

• Autoimmune thyroiditis (destroys thyroid function)

• Lupus (affects skin, joints, kidneys)

Symptoms vary but may include inflammation, joint pain, or skin rashes. Management usually includes immunosuppressive medication. So, consult with a veterinarian immediately.  One thing to keep in mind is that stress and a poor diet may worsen symptoms. So, don't delay taking veterinary advice as early as possible when you notice any of these symptoms. 

Hip dysplasia

Not that common, can still occur. Hip dysplasia can occur, particularly in poorly bred dogs or those that lack proper exercise. Azawakh has an upright, open-angled structure and a high hip profile, for which HIp dysplasia is virtually uncommon in the Azawakh.

• Chronic or occasional lameness.
• Limping with no previous trauma or injury.
• “Bunny hopping,” particularly when climbing stairs.
• Having trouble standing up.
• Abnormal sitting positions.
• Having trouble getting on and off furniture, going upstairs, or jumping into cars.

Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus)

Azawakh has a deep chest, so they are at a high risk of bloat. Sometimes it may be a life-threatening situation if the stomach twists.  The twisting cuts off blood supply to the stomach, then to the spleen as well. Symptoms to watch for:

• Unproductive retching or heaving (nothing or little comes out).
• Restlessness, pacing, or visible discomfort.
• Swollen or tight abdomen.

• Lying in a ‘prayer position’(front legs down, rear end up).

If you notice these signs, take your dog to an emergency hospital immediately-this is a true medical emergency.

• Emergency treatment involves surgery to untwist the stomach, and sometimes preventive stomach tacking (gastropexy) is recommended for at-risk dogs.

Preventive Tips:

• Feed 2–3 smaller meals instead of one large one.
• Avoid vigorous activity before and after meals.
• Use a slow-feeder bowl to reduce gulping.

• Avoid feeding from raised food bowls unless you are medically advised to do so.