Miniature American Shepherd vs Azawakh
Breed Compatibility
74% Compatible
Energy Level
Miniature American Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Azawakh: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Miniature American Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Azawakh: Independent0.4
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Miniature American Shepherd: Daily Brushing0.8
Azawakh: Weekly Brushing0.4
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Azawakh3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Azawakh3/5
Good with Strangers
Miniature American Shepherd3/5
Azawakh1/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Miniature American Shepherd
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
MDR1 Gene: Drug sensitivity issue
PRA: Progressive retinal atrophy
Collie Eye Anomaly: Vision defect
Epilepsy: Neurological condition
Cataracts: Vision clouding concern
Azawakh
Hip dysplasia: Joint malformation
Cardiac issues: Heart conditions
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Eye problems: Various conditions
Autoimmune disorders: Various types
Skin sensitivity: Environmental
Pros & Cons Comparison
Miniature American Shepherd
Pros
Highly intelligent and trainable
Excellent family companion
Versatile working ability
Compact size
Strong herding instincts
Cons
High exercise needs
Regular grooming required
Can be vocal
Strong herding instinct may need management
Requires consistent training
Azawakh
Pros
Loyal and devoted to family
Excellent watchdog
Low grooming needs
Athletic and graceful
Cons
Independent nature makes training challenging
Strong prey drive
Requires significant exercise
Can be aloof with strangers
Miniature American Shepherd Fun Fact
Despite their small size, they retain all the working abilities of their larger Australian Shepherd ancestors!
Azawakh Fun Fact
Azawakhs can reach speeds of up to 40 mph and were traditionally used to hunt gazelles in the Sahara.
Heritage & Purpose
Miniature American Shepherd
Origin:
Developed in California during the 1960s as a smaller version of Australian Shepherds, these dogs were bred specifically for herding smaller livestock and companion work.
Azawakh
Origin:
Ancient sighthound from West Africa's Sahel region, serving as guardians and hunters for nomadic Tuareg tribes. Prized for their ability to hunt gazelle in harsh desert conditions.
Special Considerations
Miniature American Shepherd
Needs regular grooming to maintain coat condition. Requires substantial exercise and mental stimulation. Health testing for MDR1 gene mutation recommended.
Azawakh
Requires secure fencing due to high prey drive. Needs protection in cold weather. Early socialization crucial for balanced temperament.