01/Overview
The Sloughi, often referred to as the "Arabian Greyhound," is a rare and ancient purebred dog known for its elegance, grace, and strong hunting capabilities. Originating from North Africa, particularly in the regions encompassing Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, and Libya, this sighthound was treasured by Berber and Bedouin tribes for its prowess in hunting game across the open desert. The breed is characterized by its robust yet elegant appearance and its deep-rooted loyalty, making it both an efficient hunter and a cherished companion.
Highlights
02/History
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.
03/Appearance
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.
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.
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.
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.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.
Standard Colors
04/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.
Interaction With Family
The level of affection a breed typically shows towards family members and familiar individuals.
Good With Other Dogs
The innate friendliness of a dog towards other dogs can depend on its breed.
Good With Young Children
The degree to which a breed will typically be patient with young children.
Openness To Strangers
How openly a breed tends to greet new people, visitors and strangers.
Protective Nature
How likely a breed is to alert you to — and stand between you and — anything unfamiliar.
Playfulness Level
How enthusiastic a breed stays about games and play well past puppyhood.
Trainability Level
How readily a breed takes direction and works with you rather than around you.
Barking Level
How much a breed uses its voice, and how readily.
Energy Level
How much get-up-and-go a breed brings to an average day.
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.
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.
Exercise Expectations
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.
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.
05/Puppies
The arrival of a litter of Sloughi puppies is a genuine cause for celebration. It is, however, important to be well-prepared and informed about the unique needs and characteristics of this breed. Sloughi puppies are energetic, and intelligent, and they require early socialization and training to ensure they grow up to become well-mannered and balanced adults.
Caring for a Sloughi puppy demands attentiveness and understanding of the breed's specific requirements. Socialization should begin early by introducing the puppy to a variety of people, environments, and other dogs. This helps in developing its confidence and supports its overall comfort level in the modern world.Training should begin at the puppy stage, with a focus on positive reinforcement techniques. The Sloughi puppy is intelligent and responds well to training that is consistent and patient. Establishing clear boundaries and rules is also essential to prevent any behavioral issues in the future.The Sloughi puppy needs a balanced diet that is suitable for the pup's age, size, and activity level. Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial to monitor its growth and overall health, as is keeping up with a vaccination schedule.Providing ample opportunities for play and exercise are important, as the Sloughi puppy is energetic and requires sufficient physical activity to burn off excess energy. However, it is essential to be mindful of the little one's growing joints and avoid excessive exercise that could potentially cause harm.Creating a safe and nurturing environment for the Sloughi puppy is paramount. With proper care, socialization, and training, the pup will grow up to become a loyal, graceful, and affectionate companion.
06/Activities
The Sloughi, a breed known for its elegance and agility, thrives when engaged in various activities. Participation in these events not only fulfills the hound's physical needs, it also provides the mental stimulation that contributes positively to its overall well-being. Some of the dog sports that are suitable for the breed include:
Lure Coursing: Tapping into their sighthound heritage, Sloughis excel in Lure Coursing. This sport harnesses their innate prey drive and love for chasing, allowing them to demonstrate their incredible speed and agility in a controlled environment.
Obedience: Despite their independent nature, Sloughis can perform well in Obedience competitions with the right approach. Positive reinforcement and patient, consistent training methods help in cultivating their cooperation and attentiveness.
Agility: Their agility and quick reflexes make Sloughis well-suited for Agility courses. Engaging in this sport enhances their physical coordination and provides a fun, stimulating outlet for their energy.
Scent Work and Tracking: Leveraging their keen sense of smell, Sloughis can participate in Scent Work and Tracking activities. These activities provide mental enrichment and a unique way for them to engage with their environment.
Rally Obedience: For those looking to explore a different avenue of dog sports, Rally Obedience is a great option. This sport combines aspects of Obedience and Agility.
Conformation Shows: Sloughis are a natural fit for Conformation Shows, where their graceful appearance and fluid movement can truly shine. These events provide a platform for showcasing the breed's unique characteristics and serve as a gathering point for enthusiasts and breeders.
By participating in these activities and dog sports, Sloughis not only stay physically fit but also enjoy mental stimulation. It enhances their quality of life, strengthens the bond with their handlers, and showcases the breed's versatility and capability in various canine disciplines.
07/Standards
The Sloughi is recognized by the world's leading registries and kennel organizations, which categorize the breed into a specific Group based on its unique characteristics. This breed is recognized worldwide under the following Group designations:
The ideal Sloughi is described by a Breed Standard that is approved by each of the world’s leading registries and kennel organizations. The Breed Standards for this breed may be found in the following links:
08/Clubs
Sloughi Clubs play an essential role in the preservation, promotion, and understanding of this unique breed. These clubs provide valuable resources for owners, breeders, and enthusiasts, fostering a sense of community and shared knowledge.In the United States, the American Sloughi Association stands as a pivotal organization for those interested in the breed. It works tirelessly to protect and advance the interests of the breed, providing educational materials, hosting events, and advocating for responsible breeding practices.The Sloughi Club serves as a resource and community for Sloughi owners and enthusiasts in the United Kingdom. It works in tandem with The Kennel Club (UK) to uphold the breed's standards and promote responsible ownership.These clubs collectively contribute to the global network of Sloughi support, ensuring that the breed receives the attention and care it deserves. They facilitate a space for sharing knowledge, experience, and passion for the Sloughi, playing a crucial role in the breed’s preservation for future generations.
09/Rescue
The role of Sloughi rescue groups is indispensable in safeguarding the wellbeing of this breed, ensuring that these dogs find loving and suitable homes. While the Sloughi is a relatively rare breed, particularly outside its native North Africa, there are dedicated individuals and organizations working tirelessly to support them.In the United States, there are breed-specific rescue groups such as Sloughi Rescue, which focuses solely on helping Sloughis in need. They work to rehabilitate and rehome Sloughis, providing a safety net for these graceful dogs. Additionally, national breed clubs often have rescue coordinators and resources to assist Sloughis in need.In the United Kingdom, sighthound-specific rescue groups also extend their help to Sloughis, providing a crucial service in ensuring the breed's welfare.Even if breed-specific rescue groups are not available in certain regions, local shelters and general dog rescue organizations might have Sloughis or Sloughi mixes in need of homes. Potential adopters are encouraged to reach out to these establishments, as they can serve as valuable resources in connecting adopters with Sloughis in need of a second chance.
10/Facts
Ancient Lineage
The Sloughi is one of the oldest breeds in existence, with a history that stretches back over thousands of years in North Africa. Its lineage can be traced to ancient civilizations, where it was revered for its hunting prowess and grace.
Royal Companion
Historically, the Sloughi was a favored companion of nobility and royalty in North Africa. It held a special place in society, and its ownership was often reserved for the elite.
Nomadic Origins
The breed has deep roots in the nomadic cultures of the Berber and Bedouin people. The Sloughi was a crucial companion for these communities, assisting in hunting and serving as a loyal protector.
Versatile Hunter
The Sloughi was bred to hunt a variety of game in the deserts and mountains of North Africa. Its agility and speed made it particularly adept at chasing down fast-moving prey such as the hare, fox, and gazelle.
Endangered in its Native Land
Despite its rich history and cultural significance, the Sloughi is considered endangered in its native North Africa, with efforts underway to preserve and protect the breed.
The Sloughi possesses a mystique and an elegance that captures the attention of many, making it a breed rich with interesting facts and trivia.
11/FAQ
The Sloughi can make a good family dog, particularly if raised with children from a young age. The breed is known for its gentle and affectionate nature towards family members, creating strong bonds. However, due to the sensitive nature of these hounds, it is crucial to teach children how to interact respectfully and gently with a Sloughi, as rough play could make the dog uncomfortable.
Official Standard of the Sloughi
General Appearance: The Sloughi is a powerful and elegant, medium-large, short-haired, smooth-coated, athletic sighthound developed in North Africa (in the region including Morocco, Alergia, Tunisia, and Libya) to hunt game such as hare, fox, jackal, gazelle, and wild pigs. It is an ancient breed, treasured in North Africa for its hunting skills, speed, agility, and endurance over long distances. It is a robust, but elegant and racy, pursuit dog with no exaggeration of length of body or limbs, muscle development, angulation, nor curve of loin. The Sloughi is not a fragile dog; it is a dog with class and grace. The attitude is noble and somewhat aloof, and the expression of the dark eyes is gentle and melancholy. The Sloughi’s head has a sturdy character and is long and elegant with drop ears and a black nose. The body and legs show defined bony structure and strong, lean muscles and black or pigmented nails. The skeletal structure is sturdy. The topline is essentially horizontal blending into a bony, gently sloping croup. The tail is long and carried at or below the topline at its insertion with a small ring or an upward curve at the end.
Size, Proportion, Substance: A male Sloughi is very slightly taller, measured from the top of the withers to the ground, than it is long, measured from the point of the shoulder to the point of the buttocks. Ideally, a Sloughi’s length from point of shoulder to point of buttock is 96 percent of its height. Height at the withers for males is normally 26 to 29 inches (66 to 74 centimeters). For females it is normally 24 to 27 inches (61 to 68 centimeters). Somewhat taller Sloughis are allowed.
Head: In profile, the head is long and refined with a deep and sturdy character. From above, it has the shape of a long wedge, tapering from the cranial area to the tip of the nose. Expression – The expression is gentle, slightly sad, and melancholy. Eyes – The eyes are large, dark, well set in their sockets, and oval to the almond-shaped. The eye color is shades of dark brown to dark amber. The eye rims are pigmented. Ears – The ears are of set slightly above the eye line, drooping, close to the head, medium in size, triangular and slightly rounded at the tips. Disqualifications are ears erect, raised with tips drooping, or rose ears that cannot drop close to the head. Skull – Viewed from above, the cranial area is rather broad, measuring approximately 4.75 to 5.5 inches (12 to 14 centimeters) between the ears, and is rounded at the back and curves harmoniously on the sides. In profile, the top part of the cranial area is flat, the brows are scarcely projecting, the frontal groove is hardly marked, and the occipital crest and protuberance are barely visible. Stop – The stop is barely pronounced. Muzzle – The muzzle has the shape of an elongated wedge and forms about half the total length of the head. The jaws are strong and regular. Planes – The profile is straight, with the lines of the muzzle and skull approximately parallel. Nose – The nose is black and strong, not pinched. Any nose color other than black is a disqualification. The planes of the nose and the muzzle are almost the same. The nose leather, not being supported by the skeletal structure, is slightly inclined down towards the tip. Lips – The lips are thin and supple, black or dark brown, and completely pigmented. Flews – The lips just cover the lower jaw. The corner of the mouth is very slightly visible. Bite – A scissor bite is preferable; a level bite is allowed. An overshot or undershot jaw is a disqualification. Teeth – Full Dentition; the teeth are healthy and strong.
Neck, Topline, Body: Neck – The neck is long and springs well up from the shoulders. It is slightly arched at the crest. Its length is similar to that of the head. It should be elegant and powerful. The skin is fine, tight, with no dewlap and the hair is very smooth. Topline – The topline of a Sloughi is level (horizontal) or essentially level between the withers and the hip bones; the hip bones may be slightly higher than the withers. The withers are apparent. Body – Chest – The chest is not too wide and almost, but not quite, reaches the level of the elbow. The ratio between depth of chest and height at withers should be ideally 4:10. Ribs – The ribs are flat, long, and slightly curved in the posterior third of the chest. Underline – The underline starts as a straight line at the sternum and rises up in a smooth curve to the belly. Tuck-up – The belly is well tucked up. Back – The back is short, almost level (horizontal) between the withers and the hip bones. Loin – The loin is short, lean, wide, and slightly arched. Croup – The croup is bony and oblique with apparent hip bones that project above the line of the back to the same height as, or slightly higher than, the withers. Tail – The tail is long enough to reach the point of the hocks, thin, set in line with the croup, and has a small ring or an upward curve at the tip. The tail is carried low (at or below the line of the back at its insertion), though when excited the end portion of the tail may rise above the topline.
Forequarters: Angulation – Well open. Shoulders – Shoulder Blades – The shoulder blades are long and oblique. The upper arm is strong. Legs – the forelegs are straight, bony, and muscular. The forelegs appear long. Pasterns – The pasterns are slightly sloping, supple, and strong. Dewclaws – Dewclaws are present, but may be removed. Feet – The feet are lean and have the shape of elongated oval. In many lightly-built Sloughis, the foot is shaped like a hare-foot. Toes – The toes are pointed forward with the middle two toes distinctly longer than the others. Nails – The nails are black or pigmented. White or depigmented nails on toes with small white markings are faults. Sloughis with a majority of depigmented or white nails disqualify.
Hindquarters: Angulation – Open angulation, stifle and hock well open. Legs – When showing, the hind legs should be left in their natural, upright position so that the level (horizontal) line of back remains apparent. Upper Thigh – The second thigh is long and well muscled. Hocks (Rear Pastern) – Hocks are strong and well bent without closed angles. The rear pasterns are also strong. The tendons are well chiseled. Dewclaws – No rear dewclaws. Feet – The feet are lean and have the shape of an elongated oval. Toes – The toes are pointed forward with the middle two toes distinctly longer than the others. Nails – The nails are black or pigmented.
Coat: The coat of the Sloughi is always smooth. The hair is short, tight, and fine all over the body. The Sloughi is presented in natural condition. Disqualifications are feathering on the ears, tail, and/or legs, or coat that is not short, tight, and smooth.
Color: The coat colors are all shades of light sand (cream) to mahogany red fawn, with or without brindling or with or without black markings such as black mask, black ears, dark overlay, and black mantle (black and sand or black and brindle). A small white mark on the chest or small white marks on the toes are faults. White, anywhere on the body, due to aging or scars is allowed. Disqualifications are color not in accordance with the standard, larger white markings, solid white extending above the toes or white anywhere else on the dog except the forechest.
Gait: The Sloughi has a supple, smooth, and effortless gait with long strides, covering plenty of ground and reaching from the shoulders in front. The tail is held low, or at below the topline at its insertion. The ring or upward curve at the end may rise above the topline when the dog is excited. The head is held at a moderate angle to the body.
Temperament: The Sloughi is a dog with class and grace. The attitude is noble and somewhat aloof.
Summary of Disqualifications: Ears erect, raised with tips drooping, or rose ears that cannot drop close to the head. Nose pigment any color other than black. An overshot or undershot jaw. Coat too long and/or feathering on the ears, tail, and/or legs. Dogs with a majority of white or depigmented nails. Color not in accordance with the standard, larger white markings, solid white extending above the toes or white anywhere else on the dog except the forechest.
Approved May 10, 2022
Effective August 8, 2022
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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.
Standard Markings
Adaptability Level
How easily a breed copes with changes in home, routine, noise and weather.
Mental Stimulation Needs
How much a breed needs a job, a puzzle or training to stay content.
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.
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.
Grooming Expectations
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.
