The Azawakh

The Azawakh is a breed of sighthound that originates from Africa. The breed was mainly developed by the nomads of the Sahara desert and in the countries Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso and southern Algeria. The Azawakh was originally developed to be a guard dog as well as having the ability to spot and hunt large and fast prey, such as gazelles and desert hares. The Azawakh is highly athletic and energetic due to match its original purpose and can achieve running speeds of up to 40 miles per hour! Unlike most sighthounds, the Azawakh is a pack hunter. They chase their prey as a pack and 'bump' the preys hindquarters until it reaches the point of exhaustion. The breed is also known to guard as a pack. If a single Azawakh senses danger they will bark and alert the rest of the pack, who will group around the alpha dog and either scare off or attack the predator or source of danger. The Azawakh is an incredibly hardy animal: it has incredibly high physical endurance and can happily run in heats of over 100 degrees Fahrenheit (which would kill a greyhound)! However the Azawakh is known to become whiney and unhappy in cold and wet climates, and it is therefore not recommended to own a Azawakh in a country that is not hot for the majority of the year. The breed is known to create a strong bond with their owners but as still able to function independently due to their high levels of intelligence. The Azawakh is also known to be affectionate, loving and loyal. The breed is known to be good around small children as they have traditionally always served the nomads of the Sahara as 'protectors, ' when they are not being used to hunt. Before purchasing any pet it is important to understand that as a pet owner you are responsible for the care and wellbeing of your pet. It is important to try and learn as much as you can about the animal you are considering to keep as a pet to make sure that your lifestyle, household and financial status are suited to provide your pet with the best possible care. This guide has been designed to provide you with both precise and concise information about a Azawakh's basic needs to help you provide your pet with the best quality care practices. This guide will give an in-depth explanation on training your Azawakh, raising your Azawakh from a puppy, grooming, health care and everything in between! "The Azawakh: A Complete and Comprehensive Beginners Guide to: Buying, Owning, Health, Grooming, Training, Obedience, Understanding and Caring for Your Azawakh," by Michael Stonewood is the perfect purchase or gift for a first time Azawakh owner. This guide includes sections on caring for a puppy, breeding, health care, training, the basic cost of owning an Azawakh and much more. This book is the second edition - the first edition was published by 'Dog Care Professionals.'