Sloughi Dog Breed: Complete Guide

The Sloughi is an ancient dog breed that originated in North Africa, specifically in modern-day Morocco and Algeria.

They are a sighthound, bred to hunt small game such as gazelles and rabbits.

Their slender build and athletic ability make them well-suited for this purpose.

The Sloughi is a medium-sized dog, with males weighing between 45-55 pounds.

Their short, smooth coat requires minimal grooming.

They have a short, narrow muzzle and large, almond-shaped eyes that give them a distinctive appearance.

Sloughis are known for their intelligence and independence, which can make them challenging to train.

The Sloughi is a unique breed with a calm demeanor, especially when it's not on the move. This athletic dog tends to stay calm, unlike some other breeds that are always on the go.

Sloughis are not clingy dogs; they prefer to maintain their independence and don't feel the need to be involved in every aspect of household life. However, they are loyal to their owners and love spending time with the family, especially children.

If you're considering getting a Sloughi, it's essential to socialize them early on, as they can be somewhat distant towards strangers. This gentle breed has a natural instinct to be reserved around new people.

Here's a quick rundown of the Sloughi's temperament:

As you can see, Sloughis are generally great with kids and pets, making them a wonderful addition to many families.

The Sloughi is an ancient breed with a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The exact time of their origin is uncertain, but records of sighthounds in North Africa date back to the 8th-7th millennium B.C.

The Sloughi was one of two prized sighthound breeds of the Berbers, an indigenous population of Africa. They were highly valued for their ability to hunt wild pigs, foxes, and hares in harsh North African conditions.

The breed was also celebrated among the ancient Egyptians, who likely prized them for their speed and agility. The Sloughi's athleticism and slyness made them a valuable asset in the hunt.

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The Sloughi's popularity in their native region is due to their ability to thrive in challenging environments. They are highly athletic, swift, and sly when needed.

The breed was first introduced to the United States in 1973, when a dog named Tagiurie el Sian arrived with her owners Kaethe and Carl Rodarty. This marked the beginning of the Sloughi's journey in the American breed scene.

The American Sloughi Association (ASLA) was founded in 1989, three years after the first Sloughi arrived in the United States. This organization has played a crucial role in promoting the breed and preserving its history.

The Sloughi was formally recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as a breed in 2016, after being recognized as a Foundation Stock Service breed in 1997. This recognition has helped to raise awareness about the breed and its unique characteristics.

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The Sloughi's short, fine coat makes grooming a breeze. A weekly brush with a brush or hound glove will keep it healthy and shiny.

Daily exercise is a must for Sloughis, and they're usually trainable with positive reinforcement methods. They're sensitive dogs, so patience and gentle training are key.

Regular dental care is crucial for Sloughis, just like any other dog. Brush their teeth daily with doggie toothpaste, and consider professional dental cleanings.

A Sloughi's coat requires little maintenance, but they do need an occasional bath with quality shampoo. They'll also need their nails checked often and clipped when needed.

Sloughis are generally clean dogs and only require occasional bathing. A simple rub down with a soft towel or soft brush will remove excess hair and keep them looking neat and tidy.

As a Sloughi owner, it's essential to establish a dental hygiene routine to prevent canine periodontal disease. This can lead to serious health issues, including heart disease.

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The Sloughi responds well to positive reinforcement, but they can be stubborn at times, making early socialization and training crucial.

They are intelligent dogs, but their independent nature means they can be aloof with strangers.

Positive, reward-based training is the way to go, as it encourages good behavior and helps them learn quickly.

Early training and socialization are essential, especially when introducing Sloughi puppies to new people and scenarios.

With patience and consistency, you can help your Sloughi overcome their shy nature and become a confident companion.

A Sloughi's strong prey drive means they should always be leashed or in a secure area when outside, to prevent them from chasing small animals.

They are typically good with kids, but it's essential to supervise interactions to ensure both the child and the dog have a positive experience.

These dogs are closely bonded to their families, making them loyal and loving companions, but also prone to emotional difficulties when rehomed.

A Sloughi's noble and gentle nature makes them a great match for experienced owners who can provide the necessary attention and care.

Here are some key characteristics to keep in mind when training and interacting with your Sloughi:

Sloughis are generally a healthy breed, but like all purebreds, they can be prone to certain genetic illnesses.

It's essential to adopt from a responsible breeder to increase the chances of your Sloughi living a long, comfortable life. They can provide you with the medical history of the parents and grandparents, which is crucial in identifying potential genetic defects.

Addison's Disease is a condition that affects the adrenal glands, preventing them from producing normal levels of hormones needed to balance electrolytes. It usually doesn't appear until middle age, so a Sloughi with this genetic defect can have puppies before it's detected.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is an eye disorder that affects cells in the retina, eventually leading to blindness. Unfortunately, gene marker tests for the breed are not yet available.

A high-quality diet with plenty of protein will benefit your Sloughi. Treat your Sloughi to healthy treats, and discuss meal portions with your veterinarian based on your dog's age, weight, and activity level to prevent problems with overweight or obesity.

Here are some common health problems that Sloughis may experience:

To help mitigate the risk of these genetic problems, ask your breeder for the medical history of the parents and grandparents. Credible breeders avoid breeding dogs that carry genetic illnesses.

Sloughis require little grooming compared to other short-haired dogs. Since they have sensitive personalities, positive reinforcement methods are an effective way to train them. They need daily exercise and are generally trainable.

Your Sloughi will do best on a high-quality diet with plenty of protein. This breed is not usually prone to becoming overweight or obese.

To prevent any problems, talk with your veterinarian to determine meal portions and an appropriate dog food based on your dog's age, weight, and activity level. They can help you choose a food that's suited to their particular lifestage and any additional health concerns.

Monitoring the amount of food and treats is key, especially since some dogs are prone to gaining weight as they age. Your veterinarian is always a good source to help provide you with appropriate nutrition and feeding guidelines.

High-quality, protein-rich kibble is essential for a Sloughi's high energy needs. This should be without added preservatives or fillers, and the protein should be high quality, derived from chicken, turkey, beef, duck, or lamb.

Following the feeding guidelines on the packaging is a good starting point, but it's also a good idea to consult your veterinarian on daily quantity requirements if feeding home-cooked meals. They can help you determine the best diet for your Sloughi.

The Sloughi breed is a great companion for active owners who can provide the necessary exercise and attention. They have high energy and require daily exercise to stay happy and healthy.

If you're an outdoor enthusiast, the Sloughi is an ideal dog to add to your family. Enrolling them in lure coursing will allow them to show off their skills, and they'll always appreciate a good run or walk.

However, it's essential to remember that Sloughis have a high prey drive and may perceive smaller animals as prey, such as cats, gerbils, and hamsters. Socializing them early is crucial to ensure they get along with other pets.

Adopting a Sloughi can be a rewarding experience, but it's essential to be aware of the challenges that come with finding one. Sloughis are a rare breed in the United States.

If you're set on adopting an adult Sloughi, check with your local shelters and breed-specific rescues to find dogs in need of forever homes. These organizations often have a wealth of knowledge about the breed and can help you find a great match.

You can also try contacting the American Sloughi Association (ASLA) and the Sloughi Fanciers Association of America for guidance and support.

Sloughi puppies generally cost between $1,200 and $2,000, but prices can be as high as $6,000 depending on pedigree and availability in your area.

If you're planning to adopt a puppy from a breeder, research different options first and make sure to work with someone who is reputable and takes excellent care of their dogs.

Here are some resources to help you find a reputable breeder or rescue organization:

The Sloughi breed can be a great addition to your family, but it's essential to consider their compatibility with other pets.

They have a high prey drive, so smaller animals like cats, gerbils, and hamsters may not be the best match.

Early socialization is crucial to ensure they get along with other dogs, but it's not a guarantee.

If you do have a Sloughi and other pets, be prepared for potential conflicts and take steps to prevent them.

On the other hand, Sloughis can make excellent companions for active owners who can provide them with the exercise they need.

They thrive on daily physical activity, such as running or walking, and even enjoy activities like lure coursing to show off their skills.