Azawakh History

The original homeland of the Azawakh, are the endless arid regions of the south Sahara and the Sahel zone. Geograpically encompassing the border region of Mali and Niger, lies the center of the Azawakh Valley. Found here are most of the types of examples of the breed.

Traditionally owned by the blue clad Tuareg nomads, they are called, "idii n' illeli" (Translated from the native tongue, this means, "sighthound of the free people.").

The Azawakh enjoy a special appreciation from the nomads. They live under the same roof and are fully accepted members of the family. They assume the duty of protecting the encampment and flocks from invaders. They are passionate hunters and provide the family with meat, however the diminishing of game and usage of firearms, lessens the utilization of the dogs. The preferred prey is hare, antelope and wild boar. It is here the dog can utilize their agility and stamina. Rough and broken terrain is no hinderance. In spite of their fine-limbness, they are not prone to injury.