Tazy

Tazy is a breed of sighthound hunting dog originating from Kazakhstan. Though it looks similar to the Saluki sighthound, it is a related but different dog breed.

Tazys are used in Kazakhstan primarily for hunting and are considered one of the oldest dog breeds in the world. Tazys are not recognized by any major kennel clubs, including the American Kennel Club, United Kennel Club, Canadian Kennel Club, or the Fédération Cynologique Internationale. Presently, there are barely 300 purebred dogs and the Kazakhstan government is trying to prevent the dog from becoming extinct.

Ancestry
The ancestry of this breed is unclear. The Tazy shares DNA with many similar-looking dog breeds in North Africa, the Middle East, and Central Asia. The breed has a high level of genetic diversity.

Ancient History
In nomadic times, Tazies were prized for their skill at running down and killing wolves. They were also used to hunt hares, wild boars, foxes, badgers, deer, and saigas. They had a special status in Kazakh culture, with it being considered taboo to refer to this breed merely as a dog. It was said that a Kazakh would trade 47 horses for a single Tazy.

Modern History
In 2014, the national hunting group Kanzonar organized a Tazy dog show in Astana. This was done to spread awareness of the breed.

Appearance
Tazys are medium-sized, deep-chested, and long-legged dogs, with short length hair on the body and longer hair on the tail and ears.

Temperament
Tazys tend to be independent and aloof to strangers. The Tazy is known for their playfulness, endurance, and vigilance. Tazys can run long distances at speeds of 12-15 kilometers (7–9 miles) per hour.