MoroccoPurpose & Origin
The Sloughi is an ancient sighthound breed that is highly regarded in North Africa (Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia and Libya) for its excellent hunting qualities, speed, agility and tenacity.
It has traditionally been used by Berbers to hunt hares, foxes, jackals and gazelles. Sloughis have also been used to guard their owners’ property, livestock and domestic animals.
Race trials (track and cross-country) are the most suitable hobbies for Sloughis and they serve as a good alternative for hunting in countries where Sloughis are not allowed to be used for hunting.
Today Sloughi is still a breed that has not differentiated into so-called show and running breed lines. A successful show Sloughi can also do well in racing competitions, and vice versa.
Appearance
Sloughi is classy and elegant. From a side perspective it is slightly taller than it is wide.
The coat colour varies in different shades of light brown (sand), also tinting into red (red sand). It may have “tiger stripes” (brindle), a black mantle, dark hair tips (overlay) and a dark mask on the muzzle.
The brown eyes have a friendly yet sad expression.
Temperament & Behaviour
At home, Sloughi is calm, comfortable and enjoys warmth. It has a somewhat strong guarding instinct and is reserved with strangers. Familiar people are greeted with great generosity.
Sloughi is very attached to its family and is extremely loyal and devoted to its owner. It will often have one person in the family to whom it has a very strong attachment.
The Sloughi is very independent and does not have a strong desire to please its owner. It does not like to be alone and enjoys the company of its pack.
Grooming
The Sloughi’s coat is dense, short and odourless. Sloughi grooming is extremely easy: the coat does not need regular maintenance, but Sloughi enjoys being brushed with a soft, dense brush. It is sufficient to wash the dog only when needed.
Sloughi is very resistant to heat and sunlight, but does not like rain. As it has no undercoat and no protective layer of fat, it needs a coat to protect it in cold and windy weather.
Health
Sloughi is a comparatively healthy breed. PRA eye disease has occurred in some dogs, but it has been well eradicated in many countries through breeding selection and health screening.
What Kind Of Person Is Sloughi Suitable For?
The Sloughi cannot tolerate rough and harsh treatment. It needs a determined, loving and fair owner.
Sloughis need more than just leashed walks. Like all greyhounds, they love to run and need regular exercise. Unleashed running can be a challenge for a dog with a hunting instinct, as he will run after game as soon as he spots it.
As puppies and youngsters, Sloughis are full of energy, but calm down as they mature – typically at around 2-4 years of age.
