Sloughi

ATTRIBUTES: Reserved, Graceful, Noble

GROUP: Hound Group

ACIVITY LEVEL: Regular Exercise

BARKING LEVEL: When Necessary

COAT TYPE: Smooth

COAT LENGTH: Short

SHADDING: Infrequent

SIZE: Large

TRAINABILITY: Independent

CHARACTERISTIC: Largest Dog Breeds

Breed Overview

Ancestry Icon
Ancestry

sight hound

Origin Icon
Origin

North Africa

Registration Icon
Registration

2016

Ancestry Icon
Size

26 - 29 Inches (Male)

24 - 27 Inches (Female)

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Weight

40 - 65 Pounds

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Expected Life

10-15 Years

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY +
Independent
Lovey-Dovey
LOVE WITH CHILDREN +
Unwise
Good With Children
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS +
Unwise
Good With Other Dogs
SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT
No Shedding
Hair Everywhere
+
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS
Monthly
Daily
+
DROOLING INTENSITY
Less Likely to Drool
Always Have a Towel
+
COAT TYPE
+
COAT LENGTH
+
FRIENDLINESS
Reserved
Everyone Is My Best Friend
+
LIVELINESS
Only When You Want To Play
Non-Stop
+
VIGILANCE INTENSITY
What's Mine Is Yours
Vigilant
+
ADAPTATION CAPACITY
Lives For Routine
Highly Adaptable
+
OBEDIENCE LEVEL
Self-Willed
Eager to Please
+
STAMINA LEVEL
Couch Potato
High Energy
+
VOCALIZATION
Only To Alert
Very Vocal
+
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL
Loaf
Needs an Activity
+
COLORS
+
PATTERNS
+
CARING WITH FAMILY
Independent
Lovey-Dovey
The tendency of a breed to show warmth towards members of its own household or familiar individuals, varies greatly. There are certain breeds that may reserve their warmth exclusively for their owner maintaining a reserved demeanor with others. Conversely, there are breeds that are known for their open-hearted and friendly nature, often treating any acquaintance as if they were a dear friend.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN
Unwise
Good With Children
The degree to which a breed can patiently handle the antics of children and its overall suitability as a family pet varies. It's crucial to remember that supervision is key when dogs are in the presence of young kids or any children who aren't accustomed to canine behavior ensuring safety and positive interactions.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS
Unwise
Good With Other Dogs
The innate sociability of a breed with other canine companions tends to differ. Although it's always wise to keep a watchful eye on dogs when they're meeting and mingling, certain breeds naturally tend to be more amicable with their fellow four-legged peers, whether it's during casual encounters at the park or within the family home.
SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT
No Shedding
Hair Everywhere
The amount of fur a breed is likely to shed can vary widely. Breeds recognized for their heavy shedding will require more frequent grooming sessions to manage their coat. They also have a higher chance of activating specific allergies and may necessitate more regular home cleaning routines, including vacuuming and the use of lint rollers to keep spaces tidy.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS
Monthly
Daily
The grooming needs of a breed, including the necessity for baths, brushing, haircuts and additional coat care can differ significantly. It's essential to reflect on your available time, level of patience and grooming budget before deciding on a breed with specific maintenance demands. Keep in mind that regardless of the breed, regular nail trims are a must for all dogs to maintain their health and comfort.
DROOLING INTENSITY
Less Likely to Drool
Always Have a Towel
The propensity for a breed to drool can range from minimal to significant. If you prefer a spotless environment, it's wise to consider that some dogs are known to produce copious amounts of drool, which can result in slobbery greetings and damp patches on your attire. Such breeds might not align well with a tidy-centric lifestyle.
COAT STYLES GUIDE
Smooth
COAT SPECTRUM
Short
FRIENDLINESS
Reserved
Everyone Is My Best Friend
A breed's predisposition to react to unfamiliar people can widely differ. Certain dogs may inherently exhibit a cautious or restrained attitude toward people they don't know, no matter the setting. On the other hand, some breeds are consistently overjoyed at the opportunity to make a new human friend and enthusiastically welcome anyone they encounter.
LIVELINESS
Only When You Want To Play
Non-Stop
A breed's eagerness for play can persist long after the puppy stage. There are breeds that retain a youthful zest for lively games like tug-of-war or fetch throughout their lives. In contrast, other breeds might exhibit a preference for leisure and enjoy spending most of their time lounging on the sofa beside you.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY
What's Mine Is Yours
Vigilant
The inclination of a breed to signal the presence of an outsider can be quite pronounced. Breeds with strong alert instincts might respond vigilantly to any perceived intruder, be it the mail carrier or a squirrel scampering near the window. Typically, these dogs may adjust their stance and become more welcoming to strangers who are received into the home and embraced by their family.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY
Lives For Routine
Highly Adaptable
A breed's adaptability to change can vary significantly. This encompasses adjustments in living arrangements, fluctuations in noise levels, weather changes, alterations in daily routines and other everyday variances. Some breeds navigate these shifts with ease, maintaining their composure amidst life's unpredictability, while others may require a more stable and predictable environment to remain content.
OBEDIENCE LEVEL
Self-Willed
Eager to Please
The ease of training a dog and its readiness to embrace new lessons can differ vastly among breeds. Certain dogs are eager to please driven by a desire to delight their owner and catch on to new commands with enthusiasm. On the flip side, there are breeds with a more independent streak preferring to follow their own whims and timelines, regardless of training attempts.
STAMINA LEVEL
Couch Potato
High Energy
The level of physical activity and cognitive engagement necessary varies by dog breed. Those with high energy levels are always on the move, brimming with excitement for whatever lies ahead and will often be found eagerly participating in activities like running, leaping and lively play during the day. On the other hand, breeds with low energy are the quintessential lounge lovers, content to spend their hours lounging and napping.
VOCALIZATION
Only To Alert
Very Vocal
When Necessary
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL
Happy to Lounge
Needs a Job or Activity
The degree of intellectual engagement a breed demands to remain joyful and in prime condition is key. Dogs with a heritage of purposeful breeding need to utilize their natural inclinations towards making choices, solving challenges and maintaining sharp concentration. In the absence of suitable mental stimulation, they're prone to initiate their own forms of entertainment, which might not be agreeable or desirable from an owner's perspective.
COLORS

Description

Registration Code

Sandy

168

Cream

076

Mahogany

128

Red

140

PATTERNS

Description

Registration Code

Black Mask

004

Darker Overlay

061

Mantle

447

Brindle

051

Black Brindle

118

Brindle Black Mask

069

Brindle Black Mantle

448

About The Breed

The noble Sloughi, endearingly referred to as the 'Arabian Greyhound,' is an elegant and speedy pursuit dog that once chased an array of prey across the expansive deserts of North Africa. This exquisite breed embodies the classic traits of a sighthound and carries itself with a royal yet reserved demeanor around newcomers, while demonstrating a tender and affectionate nature with its family.

The venerable Sloughi, pronounced "SLOO-ghee," boasts a time-honored pedigree and is impeccably structured as a sighthound. It was historically nurtured to track and hunt swift-footed wildlife such as hares, foxes, jackals, gazelles and wild boars, all while navigating the harsh landscapes it calls home. With a slender, unadorned form, the Sloughi stands tall at 24 to 29 inches from paw to shoulder. Their coats display a beautiful spectrum of colors ranging from the palest sands to a deep, rich red-fawn and may come with or without brindle patterns or black accents, while avoiding any prominent white spots. The Sloughi's expansive, dark eyes radiate a soulful, sometimes wistful expression.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN CARING FOR A SLOUGHI

Holding the title of a dog owner is not just a luxury. It’s a critical responsibility. They require from us the basics - food and shelter at a minimum but they are worthy of so much more. Welcoming a dog into your life necessitates an understanding of the depth of commitment involved in caring for a pet.

Anticipating the Needs of Your Sloughi: Insights and Tips.

Taking a dog under your wing is no small favor; it's a true commitment. These devoted pets count on us for life's necessities such as food and a safe abode, however, they are entitled to a greater level of care.

Health

Health

+

Sloughis typically enjoy robust health and conscientious breeders make it a point to screen their breeding Sloughis for health issues like progressive retinal atrophy to maintain the wellbeing of the breed. It's important to conduct routine inspections of a Sloughi's ears to detect any indicators of infection early on and their teeth should be brushed frequently with a canine-specific toothpaste. Consistent appointments with the veterinarian for thorough checkups and managing parasite prevention are essential practices that contribute to a long and vibrant life for these noble dogs.

Health Assessment Recommendations from the Breed's National Association:

  • Progressive Retinal Atrophy (Sloughi Type) (PRA-rcd1a) - DNA Test

  • Ophthalmologist Evaluation

Health

Grooming

+
The Sloughi boasts a coat that is short, sleek and fine, necessitating minimal grooming efforts. A gentle brush once a week with a soft-bristled brush or a hound glove will keep their coat in top condition maintaining its natural shine. The occasional bath will also contribute to keeping the dog fresh and clean. It's essential to keep an eye on the Sloughi's ears, routinely checking and cleaning them as necessary to avoid any buildup that could lead to infections. Regular nail trimming is also a must to prevent any discomfort from nails that have grown too long, ensuring the Sloughi can trot comfortably and with ease.
Health

Exercise

+
While the Sloughi often displays a calm demeanor indoors, it is inherently a moderately lively breed with a distinctly polished behavior as a housedog, paired with an intense prey drive once on the chase. This refined and exceptionally athletic hound requires substantial exercise to stay healthy and happy, ideally with chances to dash unrestrained within a secure environment. Participating in dog sports such as lure coursing is an excellent way to satisfy the breed's cravings for both mental stimulation and vigorous physical exertion, activities they are bound to relish.
Health

Training

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The Sloughi is a breed known for its intelligence and devoted nature, though it often exudes a reserved aura. This breed flourishes under the guidance of owners who are both affectionate and attuned to their dog's sensibilities. Sloughis require a good deal of physical activity and they do not take kindly to rough training techniques. Despite their high energy levels and athleticism, they maintain a tranquil presence within the household. Some Sloughis may appear timid, but most are simply very discerning and protective of their personal sphere. Their strong individuality is evident especially during play or when facing significant challenges. As is the case with the majority of sighthounds, it's important to exercise caution when allowing a Sloughi to roam free of its leash.
Health

Nutrition

+
A premium dog food, be it a commercially produced formula or a home-cooked meal designed under the watchful eye and consent of your veterinarian should serve the Sloughi well. It's crucial that the chosen diet be tailored to the life stage of the dog, be it a puppy, an adult or a senior. Like many breeds, Sloughis can be susceptible to weight gain, so it's essential to keep an eye on their intake of calories and their overall weight. While treats are certainly beneficial for training purposes, they should be dispensed sparingly to avoid the risk of obesity. It's wise to educate oneself on human foods that are safe for dogs and those that are potentially harmful. Should you have any uncertainties regarding your Sloughi's weight or diet, don't hesitate to discuss these with your veterinarian. Always ensure that there is an abundance of clean fresh water accessible to your dog.

Historiography

The beginning of the Sloughi's story like that of many other breeds that emerged around the Mediterranean in ancient times eludes precise documentation and thus falls into what canine historians term as being 'enshrouded in the veils of history.' What is known, however is that the ancestors of the present-day Sloughi were held in high regard as hunting partners among Egyptian nobility, Berber royalty and the itinerant leaders who maintained packs of these resilient yet elegant dogs. They were esteemed for their ability to pursue prey over the demanding desert terrain. There's a compelling hypothesis that suggests the Sloughi may have first set paw in Europe with Berber cavalrymen when they joined Hannibal on his monumental journey over the Alps.

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