Sloughi Overview

The Sloughi is an elegant sight hound native to North Africa, known for its endurance, speed and excellent agility. Their typical height ranges from 23 to 28 inches, and they can weigh anywhere from 40 to 65lbs. Sloughis are medium-sized dogs with a slender build, distinguished by their large ears and a curved tail. This breed has a short, smooth coat in shades of sandy yellow, light tan, or grey, with a lighter shade on their undersides. The coat of a Sloughi does not require much grooming, but depending on the individual, they may need occasional bathing and brushing.

Care and Grooming

Sloughis are known for being low maintenance and easy to groom. As this breed has a short, smooth coat, they don't need to be frequently brushed. Bathing should only be done when needed. They also need regular nail trimmings and ear cleanings, as well as occasional dental care. This breed is also susceptible to skin allergies, so it is important to regularly wipe them down with a damp cloth to reduce the shedding of dander.

Training and Socialization

Sloughis respond very well to positive reinforcement and consistency, along with plenty of patience. Obedience training is important for these dogs, as it provides mental stimulation and can help with socialization. This breed also does well with rewards-based training, in which treats and praise are offered once a task is completed. Socialization is also important for this breed so that they can be around different people and animals without getting anxious or aggressive. Early socialization can help them be more comfortable in new environments and situations.

Health and Wellness

The Sloughi is generally a healthy breed, but there are a few common health issues associated with them. This breed can be prone to hip dysplasia, which is a condition where the hip joint does not fit into the socket in the pelvis. Other health issues to watch out for include Glaucoma, Lens Luxation, and Bloat or Torsion. It is important to make sure your Sloughi has their routine veterinary checkups, vaccinations and dental care.

Living Environment

The Sloughi is best suited for a home with a large backyard. They need plenty of space to exercise and be active, and as they have a high prey drive, a secure space is essential. Sloughis do not do well in apartments, as they need a lot of room to run. If you are looking for an indoor pet, they are best suited for a single-family home with a large yard for them to enjoy.

Temperament and Personality

The Sloughi is a generally sweet and affectionate breed. This breed is known for their loyalty and bond with their family, as they tend to bond very closely to one main person. They make great companions and are wonderful with children. They tend to be independent and can be stubborn at times, but they respond really well to training and positive reinforcement. Overall they are smart, playful, energetic, and confident.

Common Challenges

Sloughis have a strong prey drive, so they are likely to chase small animals and birds. This can be hard to overcome, but consistency and positive reinforcement are the best ways to curbing this behavior. This breed can also be reserved towards strangers, as they tend to be the guard dogs of their pack, so early socialization is important. The Sloughi is an active breed, so they will need plenty of exercise and space to run and play.