Sloughi

• ExerciseHigh

  Needs a good workout or long walk every day.

• GroomingWash & go

  The occasional brush and bath is plenty.

• Living spaceHouse with room

  Does best with room to move and a yard.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment12–16 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Progressive retinal atrophy · Bloat (GDV) · Hypothyroidism

The Sloughi is the smooth-coated sighthound of Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria and Libya, where it has hunted gazelle, hare and jackal for centuries. It is often confused with the Saluki, which is feathered and comes from further east; the Sloughi is smooth-coated, somewhat more solidly built, and is known for a distinctive melancholy expression created by its large dark eyes. In the home it is quiet, clean and undemanding, content to sleep on something soft for most of the day, and it forms an intense bond with its family while remaining reserved and dignified with strangers. It is highly sensitive and does not tolerate harsh handling or shouting; training has to be gentle, patient and reward-based, and even then a Sloughi is more collaborator than servant. Thorough early socialisation prevents the natural reserve from tipping into shyness. Exercise is sprint-shaped: it needs the chance to run flat out in a securely fenced space several times a week, plus daily walks. It should never be trusted off lead in an open area, since prey drive overrides recall completely. Grooming is minimal. Note two practical health points: sighthounds are sensitive to anaesthesia and to some drugs because of their low body fat, so use a vet who knows the type, and the breed carries a documented form of progressive retinal atrophy with a DNA test available. Feed measured meals to guard against bloat.

• How much exercise does a Sloughi need?

  High. Needs a good workout or long walk every day.

• How much grooming does a Sloughi need?

  Wash & go. The occasional brush and bath is plenty.

• Is a Sloughi suited to apartment living?

  House with room. Does best with room to move and a yard.

• Is a Sloughi a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Sloughi live?

  12–16 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Sloughi?

  Keep an eye out for Progressive retinal atrophy, Bloat (GDV), Hypothyroidism. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

Be the first to join this community!