Sloughi

The Sloughi is a regal hound that dates back to antiquity. These graceful hunters are sight hounds that are known for their speed and agility. But underneath is a dog that is loving and gentle with his family.

Just be aware that their good graces often don’t extend beyond those that they know and love, and this breed tends to be wary and aloof around strangers. Read on to learn more about the Sloughi.

Description of the Sloughi

With their long limbs, incredibly lean bodies, and arching lines, the Sloughi is often known as the “Arabian Greyhound.” Researchers do not completely understand their origins, but they originated somewhere in North Africa and were a popular hunting breed for various royal and noble families.

Like many hounds, the Sloughi has the quintessential soft ears and sad, sweet expression. But this breed is one of the more reserved hounds. While many other members of this group greet people enthusiastically at the door, the Sloughi tends to hang back and is more comfortable spending time with his loved ones than he is meeting other people. But for his family, this dog makes a loyal and incredibly sweet companion.

Their sleek coat is short, smooth, and fine. You can easily see their lithe bodies under their thin skin. The coloring of this breed is anywhere from cream to mahogany, and they can have brindling and black markings.

Life Expectancy and Size

Often quite healthy, the Sloughi lives an average of 10 – 15 years, which is not bad for a medium to large sized breed. Working with a reputable breeder can help ensure the quality of your puppy’s stock and give him a better chance of not developing genetic issues.

Lean and long, these dogs may look delicate but are quite a rugged breed. Males stand 26 – 29 inches, females stand 24 – 27 inches tall, and they weigh 35 – 60 pounds.

Protective Ability

While many hounds are quite vocal, the Sloughi tends to be a quieter breed and is probably not the best choice of watch or guard dog. This breed is aloof with strangers but always loving with his family.

Training

The Sloughi is a highly sensitive breed. Patience, consistency, and gentle training are a must when working with these dogs.

Positive rewards-based training is great for this breed. These dogs absolutely do not respond well to harsh training, so the only way to make sessions successful and efficient is through positive training. Use treats, toys, and games to get your dog motivated and ready to learn.

These sight hounds are quite reserved, even around their humans sometimes, and early socialization will help bring the best out of them. Just go slowly and make sure all of their experiences are positive.

This bright breed loves a physical and mental challenge. Canine sports are a great way to work their mind and bodies while giving them bonding time with you.

Energy Level

Though very calm and quiet in the house, these dogs do have to burn their moderate energy every day. They love to run, so a fenced in backyard will go a long way for this breed. Be sure to be active with your Sloughi, as these dogs love the company of their humans.

While this breed is adaptable and makes a very docile house pet, don’t be lulled into thinking they don’t need any exercise. It won’t take all day to keep these dogs fit and happy, but they do require daily exercise so be ready to commit to this.

What Living with a Sloughi is Like

This is a noble and reserved breed.

The Sloughi loves his personal space and will be happy in a home with caring owners who respect him. They are extremely loyal and affectionate with their families, but aloof around strangers. Expect a dog that loves the comforts of life, like a plush bed, as much as you do. If you like being active these dogs are often up for the challenge and are able to keep up with anyone.

But these mellow dogs are also great house companions and can do well with less sedentary families as long as they get some daily exercise.

Care of the Sloughi

The Sloughi is a pretty low-maintenance and adaptable dog. Their biggest requirements are a caring and gentle family and daily exercise. These dogs prefer a quieter environment.

Environmental Needs

Bred for warm climates, the Sloughi is more tolerant of heat than cold. If you live somewhere chilly consider investing in a jacket or limiting time outside to protect your dog.

Exercise Needs

Even though these dogs are very calm inside, they need plenty of daily exercise to stay fit and happy. Long walks or jogs, backyard playtime, and canine sports are all great ways to get your dog moving.

At least an hour of activity every day is a great way to make sure your Sloughi doesn’t become unhappy or too sedentary.

Shedding and Grooming

Thanks to their very fine and short coat, little maintenance is involved for the Sloughi. A weekly brushing is enough to remove loose hairs and dirt from your dog’s coat. Occasional bathing can help prevent any odors from building up.

This breed sheds lightly.

Because they have long ears, be sure to regularly clean them to prevent infection. Nail trimming is also a must for this active breed.

Ideal Home Environment

The Sloughi does best is a loving home where humans will respect his space. Though these dogs enjoy spending time with their families, they are often independent and like to have their own time without disruption. Small children are often too much for this reserved breed to handle, but they can get along with other dogs they have been raised with.

It is important to acknowledge that this breed has potential health issues that may be expensive or time consuming to deal with.

Health Concerns

Progressive retinal atrophy, ear infections, and oral problems are the most common issues that affect this breed. Working with a responsible breeder and taking your dog in for regular checkups are the best ways to keep your dog healthy.

Behavior Problems

As a very prey-driven dog, the Sloughi requires a fenced yard, and must remain on leash at all times when out, to prevent him from running off.

Though naturally a reserved breed, you can help your Sloughi be his best self by exposing him to many different people and situations early through socialization.