Monday, October 26, 2009

Uncommon Doggie of the Day

I am starting something new tonight.  I will do two doggies of the day...one a common, well-known breed and the other a rare breed.  I thought this would be interesting to read about dogs from other countries that are not so popular in the United States.  This one is about the Azawakh dog and I hope you enjoy learning about this beautiful and rare breed of dog.

Azawakh


Alternative Names:  iddii 'n illeli (sighthound of the free people, Tuareg sighthound

Country of Origin:  Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso


History:  The Azawakh is from the arid regions of the Sahara and the Sub-Saharan Sahel.  It is used as a guardian, hunter, and companion by the Tuareg people, who are descendants of the Berber.  The tribe bred the dog for purity and beauty.  The breed has become rare in both its homeland and elsewhere.


Physical Description:  The Azawakh is a tall, slender dog that is longer than it is tall with hips that are higher than the shoulders.  There is a narrow head with pendant ears and dark, almond-shaped eyes.  It has a very deep chest, which rises abruptly to an extremely tucked up belly.  The coat is short and fine and can be of sand to dark red, brindled, white, black, gray, blue grizzle, particolored, and all shades of brown, including chocolate.


Height:  23.5 to 29 inches


Weight:  35 to 55 pounds


Temperament:  The Azawakh is gentle, affectionate, and playful with its family, but wary, even aggressive, with strangers.  It is intelligent and protective, making it a good watchdog.


Activity Level:  Moderate


Best Owner:  It does best with a firm owner in a rural or suburban home.  It makes a poor kennel dog.


Special Needs:  Close supervision with strangers, leashed, fenced yard, socialization, training


Possible Health Concerns:  Bloat, cardiac problems, hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, seizures, spondylosis

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