Azawakh Feeding Guide
How much to feed your Azawakh — daily calories, portion sizes, and feeding schedule
A large-sized hound breed from West Africa, the Azawakh ranks #150 with the AKC. Uniquely combines sighthound speed with strong guardian instincts; unlike most sighthounds, they will actively protect their family and territory. The Azawakh is a member of the Hound Group — dogs originally developed to track game using their exceptional sense of smell. Their feeding plan should account for their high energy output on tracking days. An adult Azawakh needs between 879 and 1289 calories per day, though this varies with age, weight, activity level, and individual metabolism.
An adult Azawakh's daily food intake is typically 0.5–1.1 cups of high-quality kibble, fed in two meals. Weighs 33 to 55 pounds with males being significantly larger; they are extremely lean with visible bone structure, which is normal and healthy.. At 33–55 lbs with energy level 4/5, a joint-supporting formula is recommended for this large-sized hound breed.
Daily Calorie Needs for Azawakh
Adult
879-1289
kcal/day
Puppy (peak)
1012
kcal/day (6-9 mo)
Senior
639-938
kcal/day
Note: Feeding guidelines are estimates based on standard veterinary formulas. Every dog is different — consult your veterinarian for personalized advice.
Feeding Strategy for Azawakhs
With an above-average energy level, the Azawakh benefits from a feeding plan that balances calorie intake with their active lifestyle. Two measured meals per day totaling 2.3-3.4 cups of kibble provides steady energy without the blood sugar spikes of a single large meal. Choose a formula with at least 25% protein and moderate fat to support their daily activity.
Azawakh Feeding Schedule
Morning (7-8 AM)
1.2-1.7 cups kibble
Evening (5-6 PM)
1.2-1.7 cups kibble
Split Meals
Portion Sizes by Food Type
Daily Portions for Azawakh
Based on average adult weight and activity level
| Food Type | Daily Amount | Calories | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dry Kibble | 2.3-3.4 cups | 879-1289 kcal | 2 meals/day | ~380 kcal per cup |
| Wet Food | 3.5-5.2 cans | 879-1289 kcal | 2 meals/day | ~250 kcal per 13oz can |
| Raw Diet | 11-26 oz | 879-1289 kcal | 2 meals/day | 2-3% of body weight |
- Amount
- 2.3-3.4 cups
- Calories
- 879-1289 kcal
- Frequency
- 2 meals/day
~380 kcal per cup
- Amount
- 3.5-5.2 cans
- Calories
- 879-1289 kcal
- Frequency
- 2 meals/day
~250 kcal per 13oz can
- Amount
- 11-26 oz
- Calories
- 879-1289 kcal
- Frequency
- 2 meals/day
2-3% of body weight
Exercise & Feeding for Azawakhs
The Azawakh requires significant daily exercise — typically 60-90 minutes of vigorous activity. On high-activity days (hiking, running, dog sports), increase their food by 10-20% to compensate for the extra calorie burn. On rest days, stick to the baseline portion. Never feed a large meal within 30 minutes of intense exercise; instead, offer a small snack 2 hours before activity and the main meal 1 hour after.
Thyroid Health & Diet
Hypothyroidism is a recognized concern in Azawakhs, affecting metabolism, weight, coat quality, and energy level. A Azawakh with untreated hypothyroidism may gain weight despite eating normal portions, develop a thin or dull coat, and become lethargic. If your Azawakh shows these signs, a simple blood test can confirm the diagnosis. While thyroid medication (levothyroxine) is the primary treatment, dietary support matters: ensure adequate iodine and selenium in the diet, maintain strict portion control to prevent weight gain, and consider a weight-management formula if your dog is on thyroid medication but still struggling with weight.
Common Feeding Mistakes to Avoid
Using a puppy formula designed for small breeds
Large and giant breed puppies need controlled calcium and phosphorus levels to prevent developmental orthopedic diseases. Always choose a large-breed puppy formula that supports slow, steady growth rather than rapid weight gain.
Not adjusting portions for activity level
An active Azawakh that runs for 2 hours burns significantly more than one that had a lazy day. Track activity and adjust portions accordingly — up to 20% more on high-activity days, 10% less on rest days.
Not providing enough water alongside increased food
Active large breeds process significant amounts of food and need plenty of fresh water. Ensure your Azawakh always has access to clean water, and consider adding water to kibble if hydration is a concern, especially after exercise.
Blaming laziness for weight gain without checking thyroid
Azawakhs are predisposed to hypothyroidism, which slows metabolism and causes weight gain even on normal portions. If your Azawakh is gaining weight despite measured feeding, ask your vet for a thyroid panel before simply cutting food.
Switching foods abruptly without a transition period
Any diet change — brand, flavor, or formula — should happen gradually over 7-10 days. Mix increasing amounts of the new food with decreasing amounts of the old. Abrupt switches cause digestive upset (diarrhea, vomiting, gas) in most dogs, Azawakhs included.
Azawakh-Specific Feeding Tips
Tip 1
Tip 2
Tip 3
Tip 4
Tip 5
Tip 6
Breed-Specific Nutritional Needs
Based on health conditions common in Azawakhs, consider these nutritional adjustments:
Iodine & Selenium
Ensure adequate iodine and selenium in the diet. Weight management is important as hypothyroidism can cause weight gain.
Azawakh Ideal Weight
To determine if your Azawakh is at a healthy weight (33–55 lbs target): Rib test: You should be able to feel the ribs without pressing hard, with a thin layer of fat covering them. Waist check: Viewed from above, there should be a visible waist behind the ribs. Tuck-up: From the side, the abdomen should tuck up behind the rib cage. Their coat type allows for relatively easy visual assessment.
Male Azawakh
33-55 lbs
15-25 kg
Female Azawakh
28-48 lbs
13-22 kg
Related Guides
Feeding Guides for Similar Breeds
Frequently Asked Questions
Feeding Guidelines Disclaimer
The feeding recommendations on DosageGuide.com are estimates based on standard veterinary nutrition formulas (RER = 70 × weight^0.75) and general guidelines from AAFCO and veterinary nutrition resources.
Every dog is unique. Actual calorie needs vary based on breed, metabolism, activity level, health conditions, spay/neuter status, and the specific food brand you use. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized feeding advice.
These guides are for general reference and do not replace professional veterinary guidance. Adjust portions based on your dog's body condition score and weight trends.