History of the Sloughi
The Sloughi, also known as the Arabian Greyhound, boasts a rich and storied history, with roots stretching deeply in North Africa. Originally bred by the Berber and Bedouin peoples, this sighthound was highly prized for its exceptional hunting abilities, particularly for its speed and agility in chasing down game over vast and rugged terrain. The breed was used primarily to hunt hare, foxes, and jackals, a skill set that showcases both its versatility and its endurance.
As the Sloughi spread across Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, and Libya, it became a part of local cultures and was regarded with great esteem by many. The hound was more than just a hunting companion; it was a cherished member of the family, and its welfare and purity of breed were taken very seriously.
The Sloughi’s journey to the Western world began in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, although it remained relatively rare outside its native lands. The breed’s elegant appearance and noble bearing caught the attention of dog enthusiasts, leading to its gradual introduction to Europe, and subsequently, the United States.
The breed’s acknowledgement by major kennel organizations marked a pivotal chapter in Sloughi’s storied history. The Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) led the way with official recognition in 1998, setting the stage for global acknowledgment. Years later, the American Kennel Club (AKC) followed suit, welcoming the Sloughi to the Hound Group in 2016.
Throughout its long history, the Sloughi has maintained its dignified nature, hunting prowess, and striking appearance. Today, while these hounds are cherished as companions and show dogs, their rich heritage as a skilled hunter continues to be a defining aspect of breed identity. As interest in the Sloughi grows, efforts to protect and preserve the breed globally continue, ensuring its legacy for future generations.
General Appearance
Height & Weight
Adult male Sloughis typically stand between 26 and 29 inches tall at the shoulder, while mature females typically range from 24 to 27 inches tall.
In terms of weight, males can weigh between 55 and 65 pounds, with females averaging 45 to 50 pounds.
Proportion & Substance
The Sloughi is powerfully built and well-proportioned, ensuring both efficient movement and agility. This sighthound’s height at the withers is slightly taller than its length, measured from the point of shoulder to the point of the buttocks. Its substance is athletic, with pronounced muscles that are evident but not overly bulky. The body and legs are rather bony, with lean muscles that suggest both power and elegance, and a deep chest that is indicative of the breed’s strong cardiovascular system, vital for endurance when pursuing fast-moving prey.
Coat Texture, Colors & Markings
Texture: The ancient Sloughi is a very “natural” dog. Its coat reflects its heritage as a swift and agile sighthound, one that is streamlined for speed and efficiency. The coat is short, fine, and smooth to the touch, lying close to the body. Hair that is not tight and smooth, and any feathering on the ears, tail, and/or legs, is unacceptable in this swift and sinewy sighthound.
Sloughi Colors
|
Standard Color |
| Sandy |
ee |
| Cream |
ee |
| Mahogany |
ee |
| Red |
ee |
Sloughi Markings
|
Standard Marking |
| Black Mask |
ee |
| Darker Overlay |
ee |
| Mantle |
ee |
| Brindle |
ee |
| Black Brindle |
ee |
| Brindle Black Mask |
ee |
| Brindle Black Mantle |
ee |
A Note About Color: Color in the breed ranges from light sand (cream) to mahogany red fawn, with or without black markings and/or brindling. Black markings can appear as a black mask, black ears, and/or a black mantle (black and sand or black and brindle). A dark overlay is also acceptable, as is a small white mark on the chest and/or small white marks on the toes. White anywhere else on the body (other than white hairs caused by aging or scars), and any other color, is unacceptable in the breed.
Head
- Skull: The skull of the Sloughi is elongated and rather flat. It is broad between the ears, tapering gently towards the muzzle. The stop is barely perceptible, with little frontal groove that ensures a smooth transition from the forehead to the muzzle.
- Expression: The expression is dignified and gentle, with a hint of melancholy. The breed’s gaze is aloof and thoughtful, reflecting its intelligent and observant nature.
- Eyes: The eyes are large, dark, and almond-shaped, set obliquely in the skull. They exude a soft yet noble expression, capturing the breed’s gentle demeanor and keen awareness.
- Ears: The ears are set slightly above the eye line, medium in size, and droop close to the head. They are triangular in shape, with slightly rounded tips that add detail to the breed’s elegant profile.
- Muzzle: The muzzle is an elongated wedge shape, refined and in proportion to the skull. It is straight, and the planes of the muzzle and skull are approximately parallel.
- Nose: The nose is always black in color. It is well developed and the nostrils are never pinched. The nose leather is slightly inclined downwards toward the lip, enhancing the breed’s dignified appearance.
- Bite: The Sloughi possesses a complete and regular level or scissor bite, where the upper incisors closely overlap the lower incisors and are set square to the jaws.
Tail
The tail is set in line with the croup, emerging as a natural extension of the topline. It is long and carried at or below the level of its insertion. The end of the tail may curve slightly upwards when the dog is in motion or excited. When at rest, it hangs down, reaching the hocks and displaying an upward curve or small ring at the tip.
The tail’s appearance and carriage are indicative of the Sloughi’s mood and energy levels, providing insight into its emotional state. The tail’s natural carriage contributes to the breed’s distinctive and captivating presence, both in the show ring and as a beloved companion.
The tail of the Sloughi is an essential aspect of the breed and is never docked. In motion, its gentle curve and horizontal carriage enhance the breed’s elegance and grace, and they suggest its tremendous agility and speed. The tail plays a significant role in the overall balance and movement of the breed, reflecting its sighthound heritage and history as an agile desert hunter.
The Sloughi – What to Consider?
The Sloughi, with its regal appearance and dignified demeanor, is a breed that commands admiration. However, prospective owners should consider several factors to foster a harmonious relationship and a healthy, happy life for the dog.
Home Life
Interaction With Family
The level of affection a breed typically shows towards family members and familiar individuals will vary. While some breeds may only show genuine warmth towards their owner, remaining standoffish with strangers, other breeds will treat everyone they meet as if they are their closest friend.
Independent Affectionate
Good With Other Dogs
The innate friendliness of a dog towards other dogs can depend on its breed. Although supervision is always recommended during introductions, certain breeds tend to be inherently more or less sociable with other dogs, whether in a home setting or in public spaces.
Not Recommended Reliable With Other Dogs
Good With Young Children
The degree to which a breed will typically be patient with young children, and its overall suitability as a family member, will vary. It is important to always supervise interactions between dogs and the kids in the house, as well as with children who are not accustomed to being around dogs.
Not Recommended Dependable With Children
Upkeep
Amount Of Shedding
The amount of hair that a dog sheds will typically depend on its breed. Heavy-shedding breeds require more frequent brushing, have a higher chance of activating specific allergies, and often necessitate more frequent use of the vacuum cleaner and lint rollers.
Low High
Frequency Of Grooming
The regularity with which a breed needs bathing, brushing, trimming, or other forms of coat care is an all-important consideration. When evaluating the grooming effort required, consider your available time, patience, and budget. It is important to note that all breeds need routine ear, teeth, and nail care.
Monthly Daily
Amount Of Drooling
The tendency of a breed to drool significantly varies from breed to breed. For those who prefer cleanliness or are particular about keeping things tidy, breeds that are likely to leave trails of drool on your arm or large slobbery marks on your clothing and furniture might not be the best fit.
Low High
Coat Type
smooth
wiry
hairless
rough
corded
double
curly
wavy
sikly
Behavior
Acceptance Of New People
The likelihood of a breed to be friendly towards strangers will vary. While some breeds may consistently exhibit reserve or caution around unfamiliar people, regardless of the setting, others are often eager to greet and interact with any new person they meet.
Reserved Outgoing
Protective Nature
The propensity of a dog to notify you of the presence of strangers is breed-dependent. Some breeds are more inclined to respond to any perceived threat, be it the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. However, most breeds are generally more accepting of strangers who are welcomed by their human family members.
Minimal Interest Maximum Vigilance
Playfulness Level
The likelihood of a breed remaining playful beyond puppyhood will vary. Certain breeds retain their enthusiasm for activities like tug-of-war or games of fetch well into their adult years, whereas others are more content to simply lounge on the sofa with you for the majority of time.
Low High
Adaptability Level
The ease with which a breed can adapt to changes in its environment can vary greatly. This adaptability encompasses how well a breed is likely to cope with alterations to its home and yard, noise levels, weather conditions, daily routines, and other fluctuations in everyday life.
Low High
Personality
Trainability Level
The ease with which a dog can be trained and its eagerness to learn new skills can depend on the breed. Some breeds are naturally inclined to please their owners and will readily accept training, while others tend to follow their own desires, often showing independence in how, when, and where they choose to do things.
Stubborn Eager
Barking Level
The frequency of vocalization, including barking and howling, will vary from breed to breed. Some may bark at each person who passes by and every bird in the sky, while others will typically bark only for a good reason. Additionally, a few breeds that do not typically bark will still be vocal, using different sounds to communicate.
Quiet Vocal
Energy Level
The level of physical exercise and mental engagement required will depend on the breed. High-energy breeds are always on the go. They are enthusiastic about their next activity and tend to be busy most of the time, running, jumping, and playing throughout the day. In contrast, low-energy breeds are akin to couch potatoes, content to just lounge around and take naps throughout the day.
Couch Potato Busybody
Need For Mental Stimulation
The extent of mental stimulation needed to keep a dog content and healthy will vary by breed. Dogs bred for specific purposes may need tasks involving decision-making, problem-solving, and concentration. Without sufficient mental exercise, these dogs can resort to creating their own activities to engage their minds, resulting in unwanted behaviors like chewing, digging, and escaping.
Minimal Engagement Intensive Interaction
Sloughi Health
The Sloughi is generally a healthy breed, but as with all dogs, it may be prone to certain health conditions. The breed’s lean build and short coat make these hounds more susceptible to extreme weather conditions, so appropriate shelter and care are necessary for their well-being.
Lifespan: The Sloughi has an average lifespan of 10-15 years, which is relatively long for a breed of its size.
Potential Health Risks
While the Sloughi is a robust breed with a generally healthy constitution, like any breed or mixed breed, individuals can be susceptible to certain health conditions. Prospective owners should be aware of these risks to ensure they are well-prepared to provide the necessary care and attention.
Some of the health conditions that have been observed in the Sloughi include:
- Hip Dysplasia: This is a condition in which the thigh bone doesn’t fit snugly into the hip joint. Some dogs will demonstrate pain and lameness on one or both rear legs, but signs of discomfort may go unnoticed in a dog with hip dysplasia.
- Cardiac Issues: Some Sloughis may be prone to certain heart conditions. Regular check-ups will help to detect any potential issues early.
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy: The Sloughis can be susceptible to this degenerative eye disorder, which eventually leads to blindness due to the loss of photoreceptors at the back of the eye.
To safeguard the health of a Sloughi, it is crucial for owners to have a good relationship with their dogs’ breeders and to maintain regular veterinary check-ups. These exams allow for early detection and intervention, increasing the likelihood of successful management through treatment options.
Sloughi Personality
The Sloughi boasts a temperament that is as dignified as is the sighthound’s appearance, marked by a gentle and affectionate nature towards its family. This breed forms a profound bond with its human companions, showcasing its indisputable loyalty and unwavering devotion. These hounds tend to be reserved at times, yet they are not aloof with family members, often seeking out attention and companionship instead.
When it comes to living with other dogs, the Sloughi can coexist peacefully, especially if the dogs are raised together from a young age. However, the breed’s strong prey drive can pose challenges when interacting with smaller pets or unfamiliar animals. Caution, and proper introductions, are necessary to ensure harmonious interactions.
The breed’s relationship with young children requires supervision and guidance. While Sloughis can be gentle, their sensitive nature means they may not tolerate rough play or sudden movements. It is therefore important to educate kids on how to be respectful of a Sloughi that is being asked to interact with them.
Sloughis can be often reserved around strangers, displaying a cautious, but not fearful, demeanor. Early socialization is crucial to help these dogs become well-adjusted and confident as adults. Exposing them to various people, places, and situations from a young age can aid in developing their social skills.
Despite the breed’s reserved nature, the Sloughi is not typically prone to separation anxiety. However, these dogs do value the company of their family and thrive in an environment where they are included in daily activities. Including the Sloughi in family outings can be vital for the emotional well-being of this athletic and elegant sighthound.
Sloughi Feeding & Nutrition
Feeding a Sloughi requires attention to their specific nutritional needs to ensure they maintain their lean and athletic physique. Adult Sloughis typically do well on a high-quality commercial or homemade diet that is appropriately balanced and approved by a veterinarian. When choosing a commercial dog food, look for brands that list a high-quality source of protein, such as chicken or beef, as the first ingredient.
Puppies have different nutritional requirements compared to adult dogs. A Sloughi puppy should be fed puppy formula food, which ensures they are receiving the necessary nutrients for proper growth and development. It is crucial to follow the feeding guide on the dog food packaging or seek advice from a veterinarian to determine the correct portion size for the puppy’s age and weight.
Adult Sloughis generally require about 2 to 3 cups of dry dog food per day, divided into two meals. The exact amount can vary depending on the dog’s age, activity level, and metabolism. Active Sloughis or those involved in canine sports may require additional calories to support their energy needs, while older or less active dogs may require fewer calories to prevent weight gain.
Consistency in feeding routines and portion control is key to maintaining their optimal health. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, which can contribute to various health issues, including joint problems and decreased lifespan. Providing fresh water at all times and monitoring the dog’s body condition and adjusting food portions as necessary are also important aspects of proper nutrition.
Sloughi Training
Training a Sloughi necessitates a thoughtful approach, as these dogs respond best to positive reinforcement and patient, consistent guidance. They possess a notable level of intelligence, making them capable learners, yet their independent nature may sometimes present challenges in training. Thus, establishing a trusting relationship and employing motivational techniques are imperative.
The breed’s sensitivity requires a gentle training method, as they may not respond well to harsh corrections or negative reinforcement. Positive rewards such as treats, praise, and play can enhance their learning experience and strengthen the bond between the dog and the trainer. Starting training from a young age and providing ongoing socialization can significantly contribute to a well-behaved and adaptable adult dog.
In terms of their vocalization, Sloughis are not known to be excessively barky. They may bark to alert their owners of something unusual, but they generally do not engage in unnecessary barking. Ensuring they are mentally stimulated and have adequate exercise can further reduce any tendency to bark out of boredom or anxiety.
Their prey drive is a notable aspect of their temperament, and this instinctive trait may lead them to chase after smaller animals or moving objects. Training them to have a reliable recall and providing them with a secure, enclosed space for off-leash activities can help manage this prey drive. However, care should always be taken when they are in areas with potential distractions or hazards.
The potential for wanderlust in Sloughis is present, yet it can be mitigated through training and ensuring their environment is secure. They may have a desire to explore and may not always be inclined to stay within boundaries if something catches their interest. Therefore, reinforcing recall commands and providing adequate physical and mental stimulation are crucial.
Sloughi Exercise
The Sloughi, with its lean and athletic build, requires a substantial amount of exercise to maintain optimal health and well-being. This breed is characterized by a high energy level and an inherent desire to run, stemming from its historical use as a hunting and coursing dog. Ensuring that a Sloughi receives adequate exercise is paramount to preventing boredom and associated behavioral issues.
Exercise Expectations
| Energy Level |
Medium-High |
| Exercise Requirements |
2 Hours/Day (Minimum), Daily Walks, Vigorous Running, Regular Exercise, Playing with Another Dog, Mental Stimulation |
The exercise regimen should include a combination of physical activities and mental stimulation. Activities such as running, playing fetch, and engaging in canine sports can help to channel their energy positively. Interactive toys and puzzle feeders can also provide mental challenges, keeping their minds active and engaged.
Despite their high energy levels, Sloughis also have a calm and gentle side, particularly when they are indoors. They enjoy being part of family activities and will often seek out affection and companionship from their human family members. However, they do require a chance to expend their energy through vigorous exercise each day.
Playfulness is a characteristic trait of the Sloughi, and they often enjoy engaging in play with their human companions or canine friends. Providing opportunities for play in a secure, enclosed area can allow them to express this playful nature while ensuring their safety.
The intensity of the exercise should be matched to their age, health status, and individual energy levels. Puppies and young adults may have bursts of energy and require more frequent play sessions, while older Sloughis may prefer longer, steadier forms of exercise.
Sloughi Grooming
Grooming a Sloughi is generally considered a straightforward task due to their short, fine coat. This breed is not known for having a heavy shedding pattern, which further contributes to the ease of their grooming regimen. Regular brushing, however, is essential to help distribute natural oils, remove any loose hairs, and keep their coat looking sleek and shiny.
Grooming Expectations
| Coat Type |
Short, Tight, Fine |
| Grooming Requirements |
Weekly Brushing, Occasional Bathing, Routine Ear Cleaning, Periodic Nail Trimming, Regular Tooth Brushing |
The coat benefits from a weekly brushing session using a soft bristle brush or a hound mitt. This not only aids in maintaining the coat’s natural luster but also provides an opportunity to check for any signs of skin issues, parasites, or injuries. Their ears should also be checked regularly and cleaned as necessary to prevent infections.
In addition to coat care, their nails should be trimmed regularly to prevent overgrowth and the associated discomfort. Dental hygiene is another crucial aspect of their grooming routine, and incorporating teeth brushing or providing dental chews can help in maintaining good oral health.
Despite their short coat, Sloughis can occasionally experience seasonal shedding, during which increased brushing can help manage loose hairs and keep their coat in top condition. Bathing the Sloughi can be done as needed, and using a dog-specific shampoo will help in preserving the natural oils in their skin and coat.
Living with a Sloughi
Accommodating a Sloughi in one’s home requires consideration of their unique characteristics and needs. These elegant sighthounds possess a calm and gentle demeanor indoors, making them well-suited to various living situations, including apartment living, as long as their exercise needs are adequately met. Ensuring they have access to ample space for stretching and playing is vital, particularly if living in a smaller space.
In terms of weather adaptability, Sloughis have a short coat and lean physique, which makes them more sensitive to extreme weather conditions. During colder months, providing them with appropriate dog clothing or ensuring they have a warm space indoors is essential. In contrast, they can tolerate warmer climates but should always have access to shade and fresh water, and outdoor activities should be limited during the hottest parts of the day to prevent overheating.
The Sloughi appreciates being part of family activities and enjoys the companionship of their human family members. They form strong bonds with their owners, and providing them with attention and affection contributes to their overall well-being. They thrive in environments where they are considered a part of the family and can participate in daily activities.
