Sloughi: Your Complete Guide

Got your eye on a sloughi? Well, chances are, they have their eye on you too! The sloughi is an alert sighthound who has been selectively bred for thousands of years to track game with their keen eye. While the Sloughi certainly retains all the qualities of a fantastic sighthound, they have also earned themselves a whole new reputation: A loving family companion.

The sloughi forms close bonds and sees its loved ones as its whole world. While they can be aloof at times, they are still affectionate in their own special way and will surely put the “home” into your house.

Whether you’re looking to learn more about this captivating breed or are considering welcoming a sloughi into your life, read on. Our guide below takes a close look at the sloughi’s background, trainability, care needs, and unique physical qualities. We’ll also touch on the sloughi personality traits and potential challenges involved when caring for this breed.

Quick Look at the Sloughi

Below is a quick glance at this special breed in terms of their physical characteristics, lifespan, temperament, and grooming needs. 

Weight/Height	24 to 29 inches tall, weighing between 40 and 65 pounds
Coat Type	Smooth short coat
Grooming Needs
Shedding
Temperament	Dignified, aloof, alert, sensitive, and loyal
Good With Kids
Good With Other Animals
Intelligence
Easy to Train
Energy Level
Barking Habits
Lifespan	10 to 15 years

What Is the History of Sloughis?

Often nicknamed the “Arabian greyhound,” the sloughi’s roots can be traced to North Africa. The breed is closely associated with countries such as Algeria, Morocco, Libya, Egypt, and Tunisia. 

While the sloughi’s exact origins aren’t known, they are thought to be an ancient breed, with some breed experts believing they may even be thousands of years old (as far back as 7,000 BC).

What certainly isn’t a mystery is the sloughi’s purpose. They were selectively bred to course (hunt) fast-moving game like gazelles in the desert region, and were particularly revered among Egyptian nobles. They were developed to be strong, agile, and fast, and able to endure long distances in grueling, unforgiving conditions. 

As their sighthound classification suggests, they hunted with their alert eyes. 

The sloughi nearly faced extinction during World War 2, though through the efforts of dedicated breed enthusiasts, their population numbers were steadily rebuilt, and the breed survived. Advocacy also spread awareness of the breed throughout the world. The sloughi was finally accepted by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 2016. 

What Do Sloughis Look Like?

The sloughi’s build conveys their fast, agile nature. They have a lean, streamlined physique, long, well-muscled legs, and a tucked-up belly. Their bones and muscles are visible, further emphasizing their slender, agile look. 

The sloughi has a long, sturdy wedge-shaped head that is complemented by short, drop ears and a strong, black nose. Their eyes are almond-shaped and convey a piercing, alert expression. 

The sloughi has a smooth, short coat that comes in shades of sand, cream, mahogany, and red. Some sloughis also have brindling or black markings. 

What Size Is a Sloughi?

The sloughi is a medium-to-large breed that stands slightly taller than it is long, with slightly square proportions. Males are often taller than females, and typically measure 26 to 20 inches tall at the withers, while females only stand 24 to 27 inches.

The sloughi weighs between 40 and 65 pounds on average, though their exact size can vary depending on their specific lineage, health, and lifestyle.

What Is a Sloughi’s Coat Type and Length?

The sloughi has a short, straight coat that is fine in texture. Their fur lies close to their body and accentuates their muscular, well-boned frame. 

The sloughi’s coat doesn’t just give them a graceful, refined look; it also serves a purpose. Its close-lying, slick quality adds to their streamlined effect and helps them achieve their famously fast speeds. 

What Is a Sloughi’s Temperament? 

With their rich history and striking, captivating coat, the sloughi seems to know just how important they are to their human companions. They maintain a dignified, graceful, and noble demeanor, with a polite aloofness. 

The sloughi is certainly capable of impressive feats of agility, but they are generally laid-back within their home. They’ll appreciate a warm, comfortable place where they can snooze happily and peacefully. 

The sloughi has a sensitive side and needs a patient, loving owner who won’t get frustrated. They also enjoy having their own space. While they are affectionate, they often won’t appreciate being bombarded with endless attention like certain breeds.

Are Sloughis Good With Kids?

The sloughi is gentle and loving by nature, and with proper socialization, they tend to get along well with children. However, close supervision is essential, and their sensitive nature needs to be considered. The sloughi often finds rough play, loud noises, and sudden movements overwhelming — all things kids are notorious for.

Children, especially young kids, should be educated on how to give the sloughi the respect it deserves. They should be taught to be mindful of their sensitive side, to give them space as needed, and to avoid handling them roughly. They fare best with older children who can be quiet and gentle around them.

Are Sloughis Good With Other Animals?

Sloughis can live happily with other dogs, especially if they’ve been raised together. They will particularly enjoy the company of breeds that share their value for a quiet, peaceful home life. 

That said, be wary if you have small animals like rodents in your home. The sloughi has an extremely high prey drive and often can’t distinguish between what is a “pet” and what is “prey.” They are likely to give in to their instincts and chase after them, particularly in response to sudden, unpredictable movements. 

Soughis should always be monitored around small pets, and ideally, kept separate. They must also be leased outdoors in open, wildlife-dense spaces.

Are Sloughis Aggressive?

It’s easy to be misled by the sloughi’s sighthound nature and assume this breed is more likely to snap or growl than other dogs. However, their high prey drive does not mean they’re aggressive by nature. 

They are extremely gentle and sensitive at heart. They may not show as much affection as a lap dog, but they will still never dream of intentionally hurting their loved ones. When a sloughi does show behaviors like food aggression, snapping, or growling, this isn’t the true nature of the breed. Rather, it is an indicator of an unmet need or a lack of socialization. 

You can help prevent aggressive tendencies from arising in the sloughi by providing proper care and working with a professional trainer. You should also ensure you purchase a puppy from a reputable breeder.

Do Sloughis Bark?

The sloughi has a quiet, calm disposition and isn’t particularly prone to excessive barking. The only time they really do vocalize is when they’re feeling anxious or alerting their owner to something amiss.

In short: A quiet sloughi is a content sloughi. When excessive barking does crop up, that’s a sign that they haven’t received enough mental stimulation and exercise throughout the day. We’ll touch on these needs in more detail shortly.

Are Sloughis Affectionate?

While the sloughi is aloof, they will still express affection through keeping a watchful eye over their family. They will also often lovingly lean their head against their favorite human, or nudge their hand for a gentle pet (or two). 

The sloughi is naturally reserved around strangers, and often takes some time to warm up to them. A warm, positive introduction with the use of praise and treats can go a long way in helping the sloughi feel that they can trust you. 

Are Sloughis Intelligent?

The sloughi may not flaunt their intelligence, but don’t let their reserved modesty fool you. They certainly are one of the most intelligent breeds out there. They won’t have any problem learning advanced cues.

The sloughi’s high intelligence is a trait that draws in many prospective pet owners. However, it also comes with its own set of challenges: They are intelligent enough to question their owner’s judgment. 

Combine that with their independent spirit? It’s no surprise that they also aren’t afraid to test boundaries and follow their instincts. A consistent training routine is therefore essential to prevent the sloughi from picking up bad habits.

The sloughi can also become bored quickly, so daily mental stimulation is equally important. Most sloughis need at least an hour of good, engaging mental stimulation each day. You don’t need to rely on good weather to provide mental stimulation, either. 

There are plenty of indoor, mentally-enriching activities you can try with your sloughi, including hide-and-seek and puzzle toys.

Are Sloughis Energetic?

The sloughi is one of the fastest dogs in the world, with an instinct to stretch their legs and sprint. Their high energy level reflects this. Most sloughis require at least an hour of vigorous exercise each day, with opportunities to run freely in secure, safe areas. 

Despite their high energy, the sloughi rather surprisingly transforms into a couch potato in the comfort of their home. They love to laze around and snooze by their owner’s feet or a sunny spot by the window. They also appreciate quiet, peaceful surroundings.

Are Sloughis Easy to Train?

Alert, quick-witted, intelligent — these are all traits that aptly fit the sloughi, so it’s easy to assume they’re just as trainable as the border collie or poodle. 

However, as we touched on earlier, their independent side influences their decision-making and engagement with training. They’ll train on their own terms and won’t hesitate to listen to their own instincts. They also have a sensitive side, and will be easily startled and lose trust in a frustrated tone or snap.

Considering this, the sloughi usually isn’t the best fit for a first-time owner. They ideally need someone who has experience working with strong-willed breeds and can be patient and firm. As is the case for every breed, they should only be trained with positive reinforcement and benefit from regular, consistent training sessions.

With the right owner and positive guidance, the sloughi can absolutely master complex commands. They can even be a great fit for competitive agility due to their robust, athletic nature and never-ending stamina.

Are Sloughis Good Watchdogs?

The sloughi is naturally alert and acutely aware of what’s going on in their nearby surroundings. They are also cautious around unfamiliar faces, and often bark to alert their owner if they sense danger. These qualities combined can make them a great watchdog. 

However, just bear in mind that the sloughi’s duties end there. They won’t jump into action and courageously put themselves between you and a threat; they are there to warn you rather than protect you. 

Are Sloughis Good Service Dogs?

A service dog is carefully trained to perform tasks that ease disability-related symptoms. They must be capable of performing these tasks consistently and reliably, no matter where they are or who they’re with. 

Considering the sloughi is known to be independent-minded with a sensitive side, they aren’t the best fit for service work. They can be difficult to train and typically find loud, busy spaces overwhelming. Their high energy needs can also make them challenging to care for.

While sloughis usually aren’t good fits for service roles, they can work wonderfully as emotional support animals. Their loyalty, watchful eye, and calm demeanor can provide reassurance and security to those with mental health disabilities.

How to Care for a Sloughi?

The sloughi is best for experienced owners. They will feel fulfilled in homes where they can be given outlets for their energy and brainpower, yet also have their preference for a quiet, peaceful life appreciated. Their sensitive side means they benefit from consistent training and socialization throughout their life as well. 

We’ve covered many of the breed’s care needs above. However, you also need to account for the sloughi’s coat, well-being, and diet. 

Do You Need to Groom a Sloughi?

The sloughi’s short, smooth coat is relatively low maintenance. Their fine fur isn’t prone to matting, tends to stay clean, and rarely ever picks up an infamous “doggy” odor. 

While the sloughi’s coat doesn’t need much attention, you will still need to give them a good brush over once a week with a hound glove. This will help distribute their skin’s oils and keep their coat looking healthy and smooth. You should also wash them every other month (or when they roll in animal droppings).

Besides this, your grooming routine should include daily teeth brushing, nail trimming, and regular inspections of their ears for concerns like trapped debris.

Do Sloughis Shed?

Sloughis shed less than breeds like the Siberian husky and Labrador retriever, but they still experience moderate shedding year-round. 

Sloughis aren’t considered hypoallergenic. However, their hair is fine and isn’t too noticeable around the house. Consistent grooming will also help manage their shedding and prevent stray excess hairs from appearing on your clothes.

What Health Problems Do Sloughis Have?

Bred to track fast-moving prey across harsh desert terrain, it’s no surprise that the sloughi is resilient and robust by nature. Still, all breeds are susceptible to certain health conditions. When it comes to the sloughi, you’ll want to watch out for the following health problems:

• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA): An inherited condition that affects the eye and leads to blindness. The condition can’t be cured, but it isn’t painful, and many dogs adapt well due to its gradual, progressive nature.
• Wobbler Syndrome: A neurological condition that affects the spine in the neck or cervical area. Treatment depends on severity, and while it can not be fully treated, surgery and medical management can help relieve symptoms. 
• Addison’s Disease: A deficiency of cortisol and aldosterone hormones. The condition can usually be managed and stabilized with medication. 

Sloughis are also known to have sensitivity to anesthesia and be at a greater risk of ear infections due to their drooping ear shape. 

Genetic testing can often rule out many of these concerns, so make sure to choose a responsible breeder who tests their breeding stock. Other conditions, like ear infections, can usually be managed with lifestyle changes (e.g., ear cleanings) and regular vet checkups.

The sloughi is also susceptible to “bloat” or gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV). This condition occurs when the sloughi’s stomach fills up with air, liquid, or food, and then distends and twists on itself. Warning signs of bloat include dry retching, a swollen abdomen, and excessive panting and pacing. Bloat is a life-threatening emergency and requires immediate veterinary treatment.

Some measures are thought to help minimize the chances of bloat. This includes avoiding strenuous exercise before and after mealtime, and spreading your dog’s daily intake across small portions throughout the day.

How Long Do Sloughis Live?

The sloughi lifespan is variable, as there are plenty of factors at play, from their bloodline and health to their diet and exercise. That said, most dogs live for between 10 and 15 years on average.

What Should a Sloughi Eat?

The sloughi does best on a diet that’s high in protein and complete with healthy fats, complex carbs, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The food should also be carefully formulated for their life stage and size. It should satisfy pet food standards outlined by reputable agencies like the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).

Sloughis should be fed around 1.5 to 3 cups of dog food per day, but remember that this is only a rough guideline. It’s best to consult a veterinarian to work out an appropriate calorie intake. The right amount should give your sloughi enough energy and help them feel satiated. 

The sloughi isn’t particularly prone to overeating, but still be mindful of how many treats you’re feeding them. Treats are calorie-dense and can quickly add up. Since the sloughi is at risk of bloat, remember to also spread their total calorie intake across two to three smaller meals throughout the day.

Is a Sloughi the Right Dog for Me?

The sloughi is dignified and noble, and certainly worthy of your admiration. They make a faithful, active, and loving companion. They are more akin to a feline than a dog at times, and their quiet, calm disposition can make it easy to forget just how powerful they are. 

However, the sloughi may not be the right breed for everyone. They’re sensitive and can be challenging to care for. They also aren’t as adaptable as certain family-oriented breeds. 

The sloughi will feel happiest with people who:

• Have plenty of time to train and socialize a dog daily
• Are experienced with sighthounds or other independent breeds
• Lead active lifestyles 
• Enjoy a quiet, peaceful home life as much as the sloughi does 
• Can give them the respect, patience, and love they deserve

The sloughi may not be a good choice for you if:

• You want a biddable dog who won’t test your patience 
• You have a busy, loud home or boisterous, excitable kids
• You want an affectionate Velcro dog
• You’re a novice pet owner
• You have small pets