Sloughi

• Energy Level

• Exercise Requirements

• Playfulness

• Affection Level

• Friendliness to Dogs

• Friendliness to Other Pets

• Friendliness to Strangers

• Watchfulness

• Ease of Training

• Grooming Requirements

• Heat Sensitivity

• Vocality

The Sloughi is an ancient African sighthound originally bred to hunt wild game, including hare, fox, jackal, gazelle, ostrich and wild pigs. Prized for his class, grace and nobility, the Sloughi is intelligent, driven and loyal, though he sometimes can be aloof and shy among strangers. He is active and athletic, yet reserved and well-mannered in the house. Sensitive, proud and independent, the Sloughi bonds very closely with his human family, and is quite affectionate and gentle with those he loves.

The Sloughi is a clever, active and athletic breed built for speed that should be given plenty of supervised exercise, especially free running in a fenced yard. Keep in mind the Sloughi is a true sighthound and thus has a strong prey drive, so walks should always be on a leash and contact with small dogs or cats should be avoided. The Sloughi has a smooth, fine, short coat that requires minimal grooming — weekly brushing and the occasional bath is all it takes to keep his coat clean and sleek. His teeth should be brushed regularly and ears cleaned and checked often for signs of infection.

• Major Concerns: Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
• Minor Concerns: Ear infections
• Occasionally Seen: N/A
• Suggested Tests: Eyes and PRA Optigen DNA test
• Lifespan: 10 to 15 years

The Sloughi originated in North Africa, in the area including Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia and Libya, as a sighthound to hunt game such as hare, fox, jackal, gazelle, ostrich and wild pigs, and serve as companion to the nomadic Berber people. By the end of the 19th century, the first Sloughis arrived in Europe and became recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale. In 1973, the Sloughi was imported to the United States for the first time. The breed was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1995 and later by the American Kennel Club in 2016.