Sloughi Breed Guide: Facts, Tips & Health

About the Sloughi

The Sloughi, often referred to as the Arabian Greyhound or Berber Greyhound, is an ancient sighthound breed with deep historical roots in North Africa. Originating primarily from Morocco, but also found across Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, and Egypt, this dog was historically a prized companion of the Berber and Bedouin people. Bred for their exceptional speed and stamina, Sloughis were used to hunt desert game such as gazelles, hares, and wild boar.

In appearance, the Sloughi is a study in lean, functional elegance. They possess a short, fine coat, typically in shades of sand, fawn, or mahogany, sometimes with black markings or a black mask. To the untrained eye, they may resemble the Saluki or the Greyhound, but the Sloughi is distinct for its melancholic expression, square build, and drooping ears. They are built for the harsh North African climate, possessing a sturdy yet light frame that allows for incredible agility over difficult terrain.

Temperamentally, the Sloughi is a noble, reserved, and highly sensitive breed. While they are intensely loyal and affectionate with their own family, they tend to be wary of strangers and do not seek out attention from people they do not know. In the home, they are remarkably quiet and calm, often content to lounge on a soft sofa for hours. However, once outdoors, their hunting instinct is never far from the surface, and they transformed into lightning-fast athletes.

Quick Facts

• Kennel Club Group: Hound (Sighthound)
• Origin: Morocco and the wider Maghreb region of North Africa.
• Lifespan: 12–15 years.
• Size: Large, typically weighing between 18kg and 28kg.
• Coat: Very short, fine, and smooth with no feathering.
• Temperament: Reserved, dignified, faithful, and independent.
• Exercise Needs: High; they require significant daily physical activity.
• Prey Drive: Very high; they are natural-born hunters.

Training & Care Tips

Training a Sloughi requires a gentle touch and a great deal of patience. As a sighthound, they are independent thinkers and are not naturally inclined to be subservient. They respond best to positive reinforcement techniques such as praise and treats. Harsh corrections or shouting will cause a Sloughi to shut down, as they are a highly sensitive breed that values the bond with their owner above all else.

Socialisation is a critical component of their early care. Because the Sloughi is naturally cautious of strangers and new situations, they must be exposed to various people, sounds, and environments from a young age. Without this exposure, their natural reserve can turn into shyness or nervousness. Early socialisation helps ensure they grow into confident, well-adjusted adults regardless of the environment they are in.

Grooming is perhaps the easiest part of Sloughi ownership. Their coat is very short and lacks an undercoat, meaning they stay relatively clean and have little to no 'doggy' odor. A weekly brush with a rubber mitt or soft bristle brush is usually enough to remove dead hairs. It is worth noting that because they have very little body fat and a thin coat, Sloughis feel the cold intensely. In the UK, they will certainly require a well-fitted coat for winter walks and should not be expected to stay outdoors in cold weather.

Puppy Tips

When bringing a Sloughi puppy home, the priority should be establishing a secure routine. These puppies are intelligent but can be easily overwhelmed by a busy household. Provide them with a quiet, designated 'safe space' where they can retreat when they need to rest. Ensure that children in the home are taught to respect the puppy's space, particularly during sleep and meal times.

Lead training is another essential focus for puppies. Sloughis are incredibly fast, and their instinct to chase is present from a very young age. It is vital to teach them to walk calmly on a lead before they reach their full strength. Be aware that most sighthound experts recommend using a 'fishtail' or 'Martingale' collar, designed specifically for their narrow heads, to prevent them from slipping out of the collar if they become startled.

Finally, be prepared for 'the zoomies.' Like many sighthounds, Sloughi puppies have bursts of immense energy followed by long periods of sleep. Providing a securely fenced area where they can safely run at full speed is beneficial for their physical development. However, avoid excessive high-impact exercise on hard surfaces until their growth plates have fully closed to prevent long-term joint issues.

Health

The Sloughi is generally a very healthy and hardy breed, largely due to its ancient heritage and lack of extreme over-breeding. However, like all breeds, there are certain conditions that prospective owners should be aware of and discuss with breeders. Responsible breeders will perform genetic testing on their breeding stock to ensure the health of the puppies.

One of the primary concerns for the Sloughi is Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), specifically the PRA-rcd1 variant. This is a hereditary eye condition that can lead to blindness. Fortunately, there is a DNA test available, and most reputable Sloughi breeders have been testing their dogs for years, making this condition increasingly rare in the UK population.

Beyond PRA, Sloughis can be sensitive to certain types of anaesthetics, a trait common to many sighthound breeds. Always ensure your vet is familiar with sighthound physiology if your dog needs to undergo surgery. Additionally, because of their deep chests, owners should be mindful of 'bloat' (gastric torsion), a serious condition where the stomach twists. Monitoring for any signs of discomfort after eating is a wise precaution.

Advice for Owners

Owning a Sloughi is a rewarding experience, but it is not for everyone. They are best suited to owners who appreciate a dog that is more like a partner than a servant. Their independent nature means they may never have the 100% reliable recall of a Labrador. For this reason, it is strongly advised to only let them off-lead in securely fenced, enclosed areas. If they spot a squirrel or a hare, their instinct will take over, and they are unlikely to return until the chase is finished.

Prospective owners should also consider their lifestyle. Sloughis are very clean and quiet indoors, making them excellent house dogs, but they do require a significant time commitment for exercise. They are not suited to being left alone for long periods, as they form very strong bonds with their owners and can suffer from separation anxiety if socially isolated.

If you are looking for an elegant, intelligent, and deeply loyal companion, the Sloughi is a wonderful choice. They bring a touch of the ancient desert into the home and, for the right person, offer a level of devotion that is truly unique. Just ensure you have plenty of sofa space, a warm winter coat for your dog, and access to a safe, secure field for them to stretch their legs.

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Disclaimer

The information in this breed guide is compiled from multiple professional sources, including The Kennel Club, veterinary references, and breed-specific organisations. It is intended for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for advice from a qualified veterinarian or accredited breeder. Always consult a professional regarding your individual dog's health, training, and care needs.