Azawakh dogs can make good pets for owners who can provide plenty of exercise, mental stimulation, and early socialisation. They are loyal, affectionate, and calm indoors, forming strong bonds with their families, but they tend to be reserved or aloof with strangers. Their independent nature means consistent, positive reinforcement training is important. They suit active households and benefit from activities such as hiking or dog sports.
The Azawakh is a West African sighthound originally bred for hunting and guarding livestock, serving nomadic people by protecting and hunting. Today, especially outside Africa, they are primarily kept as companion and family pets and also excel in dog sports like lure coursing, agility, and rally competitions.
Azawakh is commonly pronounced as AH-ZA-WAHK or az-a-wak.
Azawakhs are loyal, athletic, and reserved dogs who are gentle and affectionate with their family, including children who respect their boundaries, but they may be slow to warm up to strangers. They are typically quiet with a natural ‘off switch’ indoors after exercise, and they require careful socialisation to prevent chasing small animals.