Sloughi

The Sloughi is an elegant and graceful sighthound often referred to as the Arabian Greyhound, prized for its speed, agility, and desert heritage. Originating from North Africa, these hounds are renowned for their beauty and hunting prowess, combining a sleek, athletic build with sensitivity and intelligence. Their rarity in the UK makes them a sought-after breed, often commanding premium prices and requiring dedicated owners experienced with high-energy, independent dogs.

Historically bred for sight, scent, and sound hunting across the harsh deserts of Libya, Tunisia, Morocco, and Algeria, Sloughis possess a noble lineage that blends endurance with an affectionate temperament indoors. Their striking physical presence pairs with a quiet dignity and strong bond to their owners, making them excellent companions for the right household. However, due to noble sensitivity and high prey drive, they are suited best to owners familiar with sighthounds or those willing to invest significant time in training and socialisation.

Physically, Sloughis are medium-sized dogs with a distinctive slender shape, long wedge-shaped head, amber oval eyes, and a short fine coat. Temperamentally, they are affectionate yet somewhat aloof with strangers, intelligent, and loyal to family. They require ample daily exercise and mental stimulation to thrive, ideally in homes with ample secure outdoor space for safe off-lead activity. Their grooming needs are low but consistent care of skin and coat is essential to maintain their elegant appearance.

Perfect For

Experienced owners who understand and appreciate sensitive, independent sighthounds; active individuals or families living in countryside or with access to secure, large gardens; people seeking a low-shedding, elegant companion; those who can commit to consistent training and full socialisation from puppyhood.

Key Considerations

Potential owners should be aware of the breed's high exercise and mental stimulation needs, their sensitivity to harsh correction, and that they may chase small animals due to strong prey drive. They do not thrive in apartment living or noisy households and generally require experienced handling. Prospective owners must be prepared for the challenge of locating well-bred puppies due to breed rarity and cost.

The Sloughi is one of the most ancient sighthounds in existence, with origins traced back thousands of years in the North African Sahara region. Though the breed's exact origin remains a subject of debate, DNA studies reveal closer ties to the Afghan Hound than the Saluki. Artefacts such as coins from Mesopotamia dated around 4000-5000 years ago and Egyptian tomb paintings depict dogs resembling Sloughis, reflecting the breed’s longstanding significance and reverence.

Early Development

Historically, Sloughis were treasured hunting dogs among Bedouin tribes across Libya, Tunisia, Morocco, and Algeria. They were bred for speed, endurance, and keen senses to hunt jackal, wild boar, gazelle, and hartebeest. European interest arose during the 1800s, notably with Eugène Gayot’s description of tall sighthounds in Algeria in 1867 and the export of fawn-coloured sighthounds to France's king in the 1500s. In 1906, Dutch artist Auguste Le Gras imported Sloughis to the Netherlands, influencing modern breed standards with his artistic renderings.

Modern Recognition

The breed was officially introduced to the UK in the early 20th century, spearheaded by enthusiasts such as the Hon. Florence Amherst, who emphasised maintaining breed purity. After a decline post-WWII, the 1970s saw renewed interest with the establishment of an FCI standard in France and imports from Sweden forming the UK's foundation stock. In 1972, the Kennel Club recognised the Sloughi, with the breed club founded in 1999 aiming to promote and preserve this historic sighthound. Despite its loyal following, the Sloughi remains rare in the UK with limited annual registrations.

Size and Build

The Sloughi is a medium-sized, slender sighthound known for its athletic and graceful stance. Males typically stand between 56 and 61 cm tall at the withers and weigh 29 to 34 kg, while females are slightly smaller, standing 51 to 56 cm tall and weighing between 25 and 29 kg. They possess a lean, muscular build with a tucked-up belly, broad muscular loins, and strong well-developed hindquarters providing impressive stamina and speed used historically in desert hunting.

Coat and Colours

The breed has a short, fine, and smooth coat that lies close to the body, with no feathering on the limbs. They may develop a light undercoat during colder months. Accepted coat colours include Black Mantle Brindle Points, Black Mantle Sand Points, Brindle (with or without black mask), Sand (with or without black mask). While a small white chest marking is allowed by the breed standard, it is considered less desirable. The coat’s fine texture aids heat regulation in their native desert climate.

Distinctive Features

The Sloughi’s head is long and wedge-shaped, broad and flat on top, with a gently rounded back of skull and a slight occiput and stop. Their black noses and lips contrast with lighter noses sometimes seen in pale-coloured dogs. Eyes are large, oval, and dark amber, set obliquely to give the breed a gentle but wistful expression. Ears are triangular, flat, rounded at the tips, typically folded down close to the head.

The neck is moderately long and elegantly arched, blending softly into well-muscled, obliquely set shoulders. Their chests are narrow, with sprung ribs giving a somewhat flat appearance. The topline is level with a short croup and prominent hip bones. Feet are long, lean, and hare-like with arched toes. The breed’s tail is thin, set high, and forms a striking curve when excited.

Gender Differences

Male Sloughis are generally taller and heavier with a more robust muscle definition, while females tend to display slightly more refined features and a smaller frame. Temperament-wise, males may be a bit more assertive, whereas females often show greater sensitivity. Both genders require the same high level of activity and consistent training to maintain wellbeing and to prevent frustration.

Core Personality Traits

The Sloughi is known for its sensitive and somewhat aloof nature, often forming an especially strong bond with one primary person who cares for and feeds them. While they are highly intelligent and capable of quick learning, their independent and sometimes stubborn streak means training requires patience, gentleness, and consistency. These dogs are not inclined to aggression but prefer to keep their distance from strangers initially, observing rather than engaging until they feel comfortable.

Social Behaviour

Though typically reserved with unfamiliar people, Sloughis do not display aggression and can be touched by strangers once trust is established. They generally get along well with other dogs if properly socialised from a young age but have a strong prey drive making supervision around smaller animals and pets essential. Their playfulness is expressed more through active running than traditional fetch games.

Working Instincts

Bred for hunting in desert environments, the Sloughi retains an extremely high prey drive paired with exceptional stamina and speed. They are happiest with daily extended exercise sessions and require safe, secure spaces to express their natural running instinct. This drive means off-lead exercise must always be carefully controlled, especially in rural or wildlife-adjacent areas, as the urge to chase is powerful and persistent.

Common Behavioural Challenges

Challenges include managing their sensitivity, avoiding harsh corrections that can damage trust, and controlling their prey drive to prevent chasing small animals. They may also develop anxiety or destructive behaviors if left alone excessively, highlighting the need for consistent companionship or enrichment. Early, thorough socialisation and positive reinforcement training help mitigate many issues, and remains crucial throughout their life.

Sloughis are highly intelligent but can be stubborn, requiring owners familiar with sighthound temperaments for effective training. Their sensitivity means they respond best to gentle, positive reinforcement rather than harsh corrections. Training early in puppyhood is crucial to establish boundaries, socialisation, and responsiveness to commands. A consistent, calm approach nurtures confidence and fosters obedience.

Puppy Training Priorities

Focus during the first six months should be on socialisation with various people, places, animals, and stimuli after completing vaccinations. Key commands such as come, sit, stay, heel, quiet, leave it, down, and bed should be introduced with patience and frequent short sessions. Establishing the household hierarchy early prevents dominance issues and builds respect.

Training Methods That Work

The breed excels with positive reinforcement, including treats, praise, and play, while avoiding punitive measures. Training should be engaging and varied to keep their keen minds interested. Slow, consistent repetition is needed due to occasional stubbornness, especially with recall due to prey drive distractions.

Advanced Training Potential

When properly handled, Sloughis can excel in advanced obedience, lure coursing, agility, and competitive activities that tap into their natural speed and stamina. Their affinity for mental challenge means participation in canine sports can be rewarding, providing both mental and physical stimulation.

Common Training Mistakes

Owners often make the mistake of using harsh methods, ignoring socialisation needs, or underestimating the breed’s sensitivity and prey drive. Inconsistent training or lack of mental and physical exercise results in behavioural problems, including stubbornness and destructiveness. Patience and experience are key to successful Sloughi training.

Age-Specific Interactions

Sloughis generally bond well with children, thriving in homes where interactions are calm and respectful. They are best suited to families with older children who understand the need for gentle handling and who can appreciate the breed's sensitive nature. Toddlers should always be supervised around Sloughis to prevent accidental harm to either party.

Teaching Children Proper Interaction

It is essential to teach children clear boundaries such as not to disturb the dog while resting and how to approach calmly. Modelling respectful behaviour towards the dog reduces stress and promotes safe, enjoyable interactions. Educating children on the dog's prey drive and need for space during play encourages harmony in the household.

Breed-Specific Considerations

Given their slender build and high energy, Sloughis may be easily overwhelmed by noisy or chaotic environments common with younger children. Their tendency towards aloofness means they may not enjoy boisterous play, preferring structured, outdoor activities. Homes with smaller pets need extra vigilance due to the breed's instinctual chase behaviour.

Creating Safe Environments

Supervision during child-dog interaction is crucial to prevent rough play and accidental injuries. Sloughis benefit from access to secure outdoor areas where they can exercise safely away from smaller animals. Quiet, low-stimulation home environments best suit the breed’s temperament, reducing stress for both the dog and children.

Breed-Specific Health Conditions

The Sloughi is generally a robust and healthy breed, with an average lifespan of 12 to 14 years when cared for properly. However, they do have a few known health concerns including Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), which can lead to blindness and is tested through schemes such as the Animal Health Trust. Some individuals may also display sensitivities to anaesthetics and sedatives, as well as rare immune system deficiencies.

Genetic Testing Requirements

Responsible breeders utilise health screening, particularly for PRA through the Animal Health Trust or equivalent bodies, ensuring that puppies come from tested parents to reduce the risk of inherited conditions. This genetic vigilance helps maintain breed health and longevity.

Preventive Healthcare Schedule

Puppies receive initial vaccinations from breeders with follow-up boosters arranged by owners, typically starting at 10-12 weeks old. Annual checks, dental care, flea/tick prevention, and parasite control are important preventive measures. Neutering and spaying are generally recommended between 6 and 12 months, with vet guidance on timing.

Insurance Considerations

Insurance premiums for Sloughis tend to be moderate, reflecting their average health risk profile. Owners should look for coverage that includes hereditary conditions like PRA and potential immune system treatments. Regular vet visits and preventive care help reduce overall claims and maintain a good health record.

Daily Care Routine

Sloughis require consistent daily care including exercise, feeding, grooming, and mental stimulation. Typically, a day might begin with a shorter walk followed by feeding, engagement in play or training, a longer afternoon walk or run in a secure garden, and calm evening relaxation. Monitoring health daily for changes in coat, eyes, or behaviour is essential.

Living Environment Needs

Ideal living conditions include a house with a securely fenced garden to meet their need for space and safety during off-lead exercise. Urban living or apartments are generally unsuitable due to noise sensitivity and exercise demands. Climate-wise, Sloughis tolerate warm conditions well but benefit from shelter and coat adjustments in colder weather.

Seasonal Care Adjustments

During hot summers, provide ample shade and fresh water, avoiding midday exercise to prevent heatstroke. In colder months, their ability to grow an undercoat helps, but owners should ensure warmth during extreme weather and watch for signs of discomfort or illness.

Senior Care Adaptations

Older Sloughis benefit from adjusted exercise routines to accommodate reduced stamina and joint issues like arthritis. Diet should be adapted for lower calorie needs and joint support supplements may be recommended. Comfortable bedding and attention to dental and sensory health improve their quality of life in later years.

Coat Maintenance Schedule

The Sloughi’s short, tight coat requires minimal maintenance. A weekly brushing with a grooming glove or soft brush typically suffices to remove loose hairs and maintain shine. Occasional wiping with chamois leather helps keep the coat clean. The breed naturally sheds twice yearly during spring and autumn, requiring a bit more attention during these periods.

Professional Grooming Requirements

Professional grooming is generally not needed beyond routine nail trimming and ear cleaning. The short coat does not require clipping or elaborate styling. Costs for professional grooming visits are therefore lower compared to many other breeds.

Home Grooming Techniques

Home grooming includes weekly brushing, regular ear checks to prevent wax build-up and infections, teeth brushing with dog-specific toothpaste, and nail trimming using blunt-ended scissors or clippers. A gentle bath is recommended when necessary with natural, dog-safe shampoos to avoid skin irritation.

Common Grooming Challenges

Mats and tangles are rare, but owners must be vigilant during shedding seasons. Ear infections can occur if wax accumulates, so regular inspections and cleaning are crucial. Skin irritations should be addressed promptly with vet advice. Overall, the Sloughi’s grooming needs fit well with an owner seeking a low-maintenance but attentive routine.

Daily Exercise Requirements

The Sloughi requires high levels of daily exercise to maintain physical health and mental wellbeing. Ideally, these dogs should have at least two hours of activity daily, combining walks, runs, and opportunities to sprint in secure off-lead areas. Their stamina and speed make regular vigorous exercise a necessity to prevent boredom and destructive behaviours.

Suitable Activities

Activities recommended include long walks, lure coursing, sprinting sessions in safely fenced areas, and agility training that taps into their natural speed and grace. Puzzle toys and interactive games also provide mental stimulation crucial for this intelligent breed.

Exercise Restrictions

Puppies must avoid excessive exercise to protect growing joints and bones, including restricted jumping and stair climbing. Weather extremes require cautious activity limits; hot weather necessitates avoidance of midday exertion, while icy conditions demand shorter outdoor times.

Mental Stimulation Ideas

Mental enrichment involves training games, scent work, interactive puzzle feeders, and socialisation activities. These games help channel the breed's intelligence and energy constructively, reducing potential behavioural issues due to under-stimulation.

Nutritional Requirements

Sloughis benefit from a balanced diet rich in high-quality protein (approx. 20-30%) to support their muscular build and active lifestyle, with moderate fat levels and low fillers. Nutrients should be adjusted through life stages, with puppies needing higher calorie intake and adults requiring well-portioned meals to prevent obesity.

Feeding Schedule Guidelines

Puppies are best fed 3-4 small meals per day gradually reducing to 2 meals by adulthood. Feeding times should be consistent, with gradual diet transitions to avoid gastrointestinal upset. Treats should be limited and factored into daily caloric intake.

Special Dietary Considerations

Given sensitivities common in sighthounds, foods free of artificial additives and fillers are preferable. Some Sloughis may show intolerance to grains or cereals; consultation with a vet may be required to tailor diets. Supplements like omega-3 can aid coat and skin health.

Weight Management

Maintaining ideal body condition is crucial for joint health and longevity. Regular exercise combined with appropriate portion control helps avoid overweight issues, which are uncommon but possible post-neutering. Owners should monitor waistline and adjust diet accordingly.

Prospective owners can find Sloughi for sale on Pets4Homes, where prices range from approximately £800 to £1,500 for well-bred, Kennel Club registered puppies. This higher price reflects the breed's rarity and the care taken by reputable breeders in the UK.

Initial setup costs include essentials such as a durable crate, quality bedding, grooming tools, and puppy-proofing materials, which can amount to around £200-£300. Monthly expenses for food, insurance, and routine healthcare typically range between £60 and £110, depending on insurance levels and food quality.

Veterinary costs, including vaccinations, neutering/spaying, and annual health checks, can total over £1,000 annually. Insurance premiums for a three-year-old Sloughi average around £30 monthly for basic coverage, increasing with more comprehensive policies.

Overall, owning a Sloughi requires a moderate to high financial commitment due to their rarity, exercise demands, and care needs.

Given the rarity of the Sloughi in the UK and the premium prices that well-bred puppies command, purchasing a puppy requires careful research and consideration. You can read our general puppy buying advice here for essentials to keep in mind during your search.

To find Sloughi for sale, prospective buyers should register interest with reputable breeders well in advance and expect to join waiting lists due to limited annual breeding. Avoid purchasing from sellers who request deposits or payment before you have seen the puppy in person.

Finding Ethical Breeders

Ensure breeders comply with Kennel Club rules including limits on the number of litters per dam and age restrictions. Ask to see all relevant health clearances and documentation confirming the Kennel Club registration of both parents and puppies. Ethical breeders prioritise the health and welfare of the breed over quick profits.

Health Testing Verification

Confirm that the breeder conducts health screening for Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) and other known breed-specific disorders. Request copies of health certificates and, where possible, check databases to verify parental testing.

Puppy Selection Process

Meet the litter where possible to observe puppies' temperament and physical condition. Choose a puppy that is confident, curious, and well-socialised. Avoid ones showing extreme shyness or aggression as this usually leads to future behavioural challenges.

Contract and Guarantee Review

Request a written contract detailing health guarantees, return policies, and obligations. Be wary of contracts that lack clarity on health responsibilities or that don’t offer a return option if issues arise.

Rescue and Adoption Options

Consider rescue organisations specialising in sighthounds or detailing specific Sloughi rehoming. Adoption can be a rewarding option and helps alleviate the pressure on limited breed-specific breeders.