Dogs

COUNTRY OF ORIGIN - Mali

MOST SUITED AS - Hunter by sight of small and large game.

SIZE
The shoulder-height is 64 - 72cm (25 1/2 - 28 1/2in) for dogs and 61 - 71cm (24 - 28in) for bitches.

COAT
The Azawakh has a short-haired coat which is sandy, red, or a roan of these colours. A white blaze and some white on the chest are accept�able, and white feet are a breed requirement.

CARE REQUIRED
The coat of this breed does not require much attention. It is sufficient to brush them now and then. Keep the claws trimmed, the ears clean, and check from time to time to see if there is tartar on the teeth.

CHARACTER
These are temperamental, lively, independent, and proud dogs, that have considerable stami­na, and are vigilant. These dogs only let peop­le they like see their affectionate and gentle nature. Because their original natural behaviour has not been bred out of them, it will defend its own people if they are threatened.

TRAINING
It is not easy to train this dog. The most success is achieved with lots of patience and much insight into the dog's character. Corporal punishment will not force the dog to respect you - quite the opposite. In spite of this you must make sure it does not take liberties with you.

SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR
The company of similar dogs is not a problem, and that is also true of mixing with children, as long as they respect the dog. In view of their strong hunting instincts, they should not be trusted with cats and other household animals. They are usually rather distrustful of strangers.

EXERCISE
This breed cannot be restricted to a daily trot around the block. They must be able to run in order to get rid of their unbridled energy. This is an ideal dog for the really keen cyclist since they can cover considerable distances without tiring. In some countries it is forbidden to let dogs which hunt by sight such as the Azawakh to run freely off the lead.