Azawakh

Hound Group

Height: 25-29 / 23.5-27.5 in

Weight: 44-55 / 33-44 lbs

Life Span: 12-15 years

AloofAffectionateAttentiveRugged

Basset Hound

Hound Group

Height: 15 in

Weight: 40-65 lbs

Life Span: 12-13 years

TenaciousFriendlyAffectionateDevoted
Azawakh
Basset Hound
Best

Physical Traits

90% similar
Breed Group
Hound
Hound
Size Category
Medium
Medium
Height (in)
25-2923.5-27.5
15
Weight (lbs)
44-5533-44
40-65
Life Span
12-15
12-13

Personality & Temperament

Azawakh

AloofAffectionateAttentiveRuggedFierceRefined

"The Azawakh is an independent yet deeply loyal and affectionate breed with a dignified demeanor. Highly intelligent and fiercely protective, they form strong bonds with their families while maintaining a reserved nature around strangers. Their playful and energetic disposition requires mental stimulation and companionship to thrive, though they can be aloof or stubborn if not properly socialized or trained with positive reinforcement."

⚠️

Owners may face challenges with early training due to the breed's independent nature and sensitivity to harsh methods, as well as the need for regular socialization to prevent aloofness or aggression; their high energy requires daily engagement to avoid boredom-related behaviors.

💡

This breed is best suited for experienced dog owners who appreciate an active, intelligent, and dignified companion and can provide consistent training, companionship, and outdoor exercise in a spacious environment.

Basset Hound

TenaciousFriendlyAffectionateDevotedSweet-TemperedGentle

"The Basset Hound is a charming, patient, and low-key breed with a strong independent streak. Known for their gentle and affectionate nature, they are typically good with children and other dogs but can be aloof or stubborn during training due to their strong scent-driven instincts and preference for working autonomously."

⚠️

Owners may face challenges with stubbornness during training and managing excessive shedding, which requires regular grooming.

💡

This breed is best suited for owners who appreciate a calm yet playful companion and are prepared for consistent, patient training and moderate grooming needs.

Purpose & Suitability

Purpose
Hunting (prey such as hare, antelope, and wild boar) and guarding/protecting nomadic encampments and flocks
Scent hound originally bred for tracking rabbit and deer over rough terrain, often working in packs or alongside human hunting partners
Best Suited For
Active individuals or families in rural or spacious living environments, particularly those with experience in training independent breeds
Moderate activity households, families with children, and owners who enjoy a laid-back but affectionate companion
Training Difficulty
Moderate
Hard
Care Difficulty
Low
Moderate

Coat & Appearance

🧵 Coat Type
Smooth
Smooth
📏 Coat Length
Short
Short
🎨 Colors
FawnRedBrindleSandyWhiteBlackBlueBrownGrayCream
Black & WhiteBlack Brown & WhiteBlack Tan & WhiteBlack White & BrownBlack White & TanBrown Black & WhiteLemon & WhiteMahogany & WhiteRed & WhiteBlack & BrownBlack Red & WhiteBlue & WhiteBrown & WhiteTan & WhiteWhite & LemonWhite Black & BrownWhite Black & Red
✨ Markings
White MarkingsBlack MaskPiebaldBrindle MarkingsGrizzle MarkingsParti-Color
White MarkingsTickedBlack MarkingsBlack Mask

Care & Health

Azawakh

Care

Grooming
  • Azawakh grooming is low-maintenance due to their short coat
  • weekly brushing with a soft bristle brush, rubber mitt, or hound glove suffices
  • bathing is rarely needed unless absolutely necessary, as mud often brushes out dry
  • no strong doggy odor means infrequent cleaning
  • nails should be trimmed regularly to prevent pain and mobility issues
  • minimal upkeep keeps their coat in good condition.
Exercise
  • Azawakh exercise needs: an active breed requiring daily mental and physical stimulation
  • thrives as a running companion with owners
  • needs at least a half-hour daily play session in a secure, fenced area
  • won’t self-exercise when left alone in a yard
  • prefers activity with owner or another dog
  • well-fenced fields, parks, or yards suit their exercise needs
Training
  • Azawakh training requires early, positive reinforcement due to their intelligence and independence
  • Start training and socialization early to prevent behavioral issues
  • Enroll in puppy training classes with a positive, reward-based approach
  • Avoid harsh or punishment-based methods to prevent aggression or a broken spirit
  • Use gentle but firm corrections for obedience, affection, and loyalty
  • A well-trained Azawakh becomes obedient, affectionate, and loyal.
Nutrition
  • Azawakh nutrition guidance: feed high-quality dog food (commercial or vet-approved homemade) suited to age (puppy, adult, or senior)
  • monitor calorie intake and weight to prevent obesity, as some Azawakh are prone to gaining weight
  • use treats for training but limit amounts to avoid obesity
  • consult vet for safe human foods and dietary concerns
  • ensure clean, fresh water is always available

Health

Azawakh dogs are typically robust, but responsible breeders prioritize health testing for potential issues such as hypothyroidism, seizures, cardiac conditions, and autoimmune diseases. Their slender, elegant physique features thin skin that accentuates their lean muscle and bone structure. Owners should familiarize themselves with the breed’s ideal weight and body condition to ensure their Azawakh remains healthy and well-maintained.

Recommended Tests:

No recommended health tests

Basset Hound

Care

Grooming
  • Basset Hound grooming requires regular attention despite their short coat
  • gentle weekly brushing with a soft brush or shedding tool controls shedding and benefits skin health
  • nails should be trimmed regularly to maintain health
  • occasional baths keep coat clean and shiny
  • grooming sessions act as an all-body massage for overall well-being
  • short hair may shed profusely, so consistent grooming is essential.
Exercise
  • Basset Hound exercise needs: requires regular, moderate exercise like a daily walk at a moderate pace
  • helps maintain health and prevent overweight
  • enjoys canine company and playful outings
  • typically settles for a comfortable sleep after activity
  • not as active as some breeds but still needs consistent movement
  • developed to work in a pack, so social exercise is beneficial
Training
  • Basset Hound training requires patience due to their independent nature bred for solo scent-hunting
  • training challenges stem from their focus on tracking over commands
  • success depends on time, consistency, and persistence
  • treats and early puppy socialization are key to engagement
  • continued positive obedience training benefits mature Bassets
  • their aloofness doesn’t mean they’re untrainable—just determined.
Nutrition
  • Basset Hound nutrition: feed high-quality dog food (commercial or vet-approved homemade) suited to age (puppy, adult, or senior)
  • monitor calorie intake and weight to prevent obesity, limit treats to avoid excess weight gain
  • consult vet about safe human foods and dietary concerns
  • ensure clean, fresh water is always available
  • watch for signs of obesity and address with vet if needed

Health

Basset Hounds require regular ear care due to their long, drooping ears, which can trap moisture and lead to infections. Signs like head shaking or ear scratching may signal a need for veterinary attention. Reputable breeders screen for common health issues such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, glaucoma, hypothyroidism, bleeding disorders, and luxating patella. Additionally, maintaining dental hygiene through brushing with canine toothpaste at least twice weekly is essential for their overall health.

Recommended Tests:

Ophthalmologist EvaluationMucopolysaccharidosis I (MPS I) - DNA TestThrombopathia (Basset Hound) - DNA Test

Trait Comparison

54% similar
💡 Compare their traits above to see differences
Affectionate With Family
Affectionate With Family for Azawakh: 3 out of 5 (Moderate)
Affectionate With Family for Basset Hound: 3 out of 5 (Moderate)
🐾 Balanced
Good With Young Children
Good With Young Children for Azawakh: 3 out of 5 (Moderate)
Good With Young Children for Basset Hound: 5 out of 5 (Excellent with Kids)
Basset Hound
Good With Other Dogs
Good With Other Dogs for Azawakh: 3 out of 5 (Moderate)
Good With Other Dogs for Basset Hound: 5 out of 5 (Very Dog-Friendly)
Basset Hound
Shedding Level
Shedding Level for Azawakh: 2 out of 5 (Moderate)
Shedding Level for Basset Hound: 2 out of 5 (Moderate)
🐾 Balanced
Coat Grooming Frequency
Coat Grooming Frequency for Azawakh: 2 out of 5 (Moderate)
Coat Grooming Frequency for Basset Hound: 3 out of 5 (Moderate)
Basset Hound
Drooling Level
Drooling Level for Azawakh: 1 out of 5 (Rarely Drools)
Drooling Level for Basset Hound: 4 out of 5 (Moderate)
Basset Hound
Openness To Strangers
Openness To Strangers for Azawakh: 1 out of 5 (Cautious)
Openness To Strangers for Basset Hound: 3 out of 5 (Moderate)
Basset Hound
Playfulness Level
Playfulness Level for Azawakh: 3 out of 5 (Moderate)
Playfulness Level for Basset Hound: 3 out of 5 (Moderate)
🐾 Balanced
Watchdog/Protective Nature
Watchdog/Protective Nature for Azawakh: 3 out of 5 (Moderate)
Watchdog/Protective Nature for Basset Hound: 3 out of 5 (Moderate)
🐾 Balanced
Adaptability Level
Adaptability Level for Azawakh: 3 out of 5 (Moderate)
Adaptability Level for Basset Hound: 3 out of 5 (Moderate)
🐾 Balanced
Trainability Level
Trainability Level for Azawakh: 2 out of 5 (Moderate)
Trainability Level for Basset Hound: 3 out of 5 (Moderate)
Basset Hound
Energy Level
Energy Level for Azawakh: 3 out of 5 (Moderate)
Energy Level for Basset Hound: 2 out of 5 (Moderate)
Azawakh
Barking Level
Barking Level for Azawakh: 1 out of 5 (Quiet)
Barking Level for Basset Hound: 4 out of 5 (Moderate)
Basset Hound
Mental Stimulation Needs
Mental Stimulation Needs for Azawakh: 3 out of 5 (Moderate)
Mental Stimulation Needs for Basset Hound: 3 out of 5 (Moderate)
🐾 Balanced

Note: Scores reflect typical breed tendencies. Individual dogs may vary based on training, environment, and genetics.

Note: Some traits may be unavailable for certain breeds due to limited or inconsistent data from recognized sources.

Common Questions

Answers to popular questions about Azawakh and Basset Hound.

Basset Hound is generally considered a better option for families with young children than Azawakh, as they tend to be more patient and tolerant.
Both breeds can be independent and stubborn, which may make training a challenge for inexperienced owners. Patience and consistency are key.
Yes, both breeds have a similar shedding level (2/5).
Both breeds can be suitable for first-time owners, depending on your lifestyle and dedication to training and care.

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Azawakh vs Basset Hound: Size, Temperament & Care Comparison