How much does a Azawakh cost per year?

The annual cost of owning a Azawakh is approximately $2,335 at a moderate care level. This includes food ($552), veterinary care ($630), grooming ($264), pet insurance ($864), and licensing ($25).

How much does it cost to own a Azawakh in the first year?

The first year of owning a Azawakh typically costs around $3,055. This is higher than subsequent years because it includes one-time setup costs such as supplies, a grooming kit, and puppy training classes on top of the recurring annual expenses of $2,335.

What is the lifetime cost of owning a Azawakh?

The lifetime cost of owning a Azawakh is estimated at $27,573 over approximately 12 years (average lifespan). This accounts for first-year setup costs plus recurring annual expenses of $2,335 for each subsequent year.

How much is pet insurance for a Azawakh?

Pet insurance for a Azawakh typically costs around $72 per month ($864 per year) at a moderate coverage level. Rates vary by your location, the dog's age, and the level of coverage chosen. Azawakhs can face unexpected vet bills of $2,500 or more for emergencies, making insurance a worthwhile investment.

How much does food cost for a Azawakh?

Food for a Azawakh costs approximately $46 per month ($552 per year) at a moderate quality level. Budget options can reduce this, while premium raw or prescription diets will increase it.

Is a Azawakh expensive to own?

Owning a Azawakh costs around $2,335 per year on average, or about $195 per month. The first year runs higher at approximately $3,055 due to one-time setup expenses. Over a lifetime of ~12 years, total ownership costs are roughly $27,573.

What is the temperament of a Azawakh?

Azawakhs are known to be aloof, affectionate, attentive, rugged, fierce, refined. This combination of traits makes them wonderful companions for most households. Their temperament is influenced by both genetics and proper socialization from an early age.

How much exercise does a Azawakh need?

Azawakhs are high-energy dogs requiring 60+ minutes of vigorous daily exercise and mental stimulation.

How often should I groom my Azawakh?

Azawakhs require minimal grooming with weekly brushing and occasional baths.

How do I train a Azawakh?

Azawakhs are highly trainable and typically respond well to positive reinforcement methods.

Are Azawakhs good with children?

Azawakhs are generally not recommended with children. They generally prefer calm, predictable environments and may become stressed by the unpredictable movements and loud sounds typical of young children. Households with older, respectful children may be more suitable. Remember that proper socialization and teaching children appropriate interaction with dogs are always important, regardless of breed.

What makes the Azawakh unique compared to other dog breeds?

The Azawakh stands out from other breeds due to its impressive stature and presence, rich heritage from Mali, exceptional hunting abilities. This unique combination of characteristics makes them special among dog breeds and appeals to owners who appreciate these distinct qualities. Understanding these traits helps provide appropriate care tailored to their specific needs.

What should I know before getting a Azawakh?

Before bringing a Azawakh into your home, potential owners should consider: They have high exercise requirements (5/5) and need an active owner. Their coat is relatively low-maintenance (2/5). They may not be ideal for families with young children (2/5 child-friendliness). They're typically highly trainable (4/5) and eager to learn. They may be prone to breed-specific health issues including Epilepsy, Bloat (GDV), Hip Dysplasia, Cardiac Issues, Wobbler Syndrome. Additionally, researching reputable breeders or rescue organizations is essential for finding a healthy, well-socialized Azawakh. Understanding these factors will help ensure a good match between the breed and your lifestyle, leading to a happy relationship for both you and your dog.

What were Azawakhs originally bred for?

Azawakhs were originally bred for livestock guardian, hunting. This hunting background explains their natural prey drive, scenting abilities, and often high energy levels. As part of the Hound group, they share characteristics with other breeds developed for similar purposes. Understanding your Azawakh's breeding heritage helps explain many of their natural behaviors and instincts, which can be channeled appropriately through training and enrichment activities. Even though modern Azawakhs are primarily companions, these inherent traits remain part of their genetic makeup.

How long do Azawakhs typically live?

The average lifespan of a Azawakh is 10 - 13 years. With proper care including quality nutrition, regular veterinary check-ups, appropriate exercise, and preventative healthcare, some Azawakhs may live beyond this range. Genetics, environment, and healthcare all play important roles in determining longevity.

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Azawakh

Written by Dr. Sarah Johnson, Veterinary Consultant

Published: January 15, 2024 • Last updated: May 5, 2026

Temperament

Aloof, Affectionate, Attentive, Rugged, Fierce, Refined

At a Glance

👶

Good with Kids

Better for Adults

🐕

Good with Dogs

Very Friendly

🎓

Trainability

Easy to Train

⚡

Energy Level

High Energy

✂️

Grooming

Low Maintenance

Quick Facts

Breed Group:: Hound
Bred For:: Livestock guardian, hunting
Origin:: Mali
Life Span:: 10 - 13 years
Weight:: 33 - 55 lbs
Height:: 23 - 29 in

💰 Azawakh Cost Guide

Food · Vet · Grooming · Insurance · Full breakdown

Additional Characteristics

Good with Children2/5

Good with Other Dogs5/5

Trainability4/5

Energy Level5/5

Grooming Needs2/5

Care Requirements

Exercise Needs5/5

They are extremely energetic dogs requiring extensive daily exercise, activities, and mental stimulation.

Grooming Requirements2/5

They need regular but basic grooming such as weekly brushing.

Trainability4/5

Highly trainable and quick to learn commands

Good with Children2/5

They can be suitable with older, respectful children but may not be ideal for young children.

Good with Other Dogs5/5

🐕

Azawakh

Complete Breed Guide

6 sections

📋Overview

About the Azawakh

🐾The Breed

The Azawakh is a sighthound breed originating from Mali, traditionally used by nomadic tribes for hunting and guarding livestock. Standing between 23 to 29 inches tall and weighing 33 to 55 pounds, they are characterized by their slender build, long legs, and short coat, which can come in various colors. Known for their aloof yet affectionate temperament, Azawakh dogs are attentive and fiercely loyal, making them both devoted companions and effective guardians.

⚡Personality

Azawakhs are known for being aloof, affectionate, attentive, rugged, fierce, and refined. As a high-energy breed, they are highly responsive to training and thrive with regular mental and physical activity. They are better suited to households without young children and friendly with other dogs, making them a popular choice for families and experienced dog owners alike.

🏡Daily Life

Caring for a Azawakh means committing to minimal grooming — a quick brush once a week is usually enough, intense daily exercise, and firm, consistent training. They do best in structured environments with experienced dog owners.

At a Glance

👶

Good with Kids

Better for Adults

🐕

Good with Dogs

Very Friendly

🎓

Trainability

Easy to Train

⚡

Energy Level

High Energy

✂️

Grooming

Low Maintenance

Quick Facts

Breed Group:: Hound
Bred For:: Livestock guardian, hunting
Origin:: Mali
Life Span:: 10 - 13 years
Weight:: 33 - 55 lbs
Height:: 23 - 29 in

Temperament

AloofAffectionateAttentiveRuggedFierceRefined

Free Azawakh Health Guide

Azawakhs can be prone to Epilepsy and other conditions. Get our owner's health checklist and monthly vet tips — free.

✓Azawakh-specific health warning signs
✓Vet visit checklist & cost tracker
✓Monthly breed health newsletter

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Azawakh

Temperament

At a Glance

Quick Facts

Frequently Asked Questions

Additional Characteristics

Care Requirements

About the Azawakh

At a Glance

Quick Facts

Temperament

Free Azawakh Health Guide

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