Sloughi
ReservedFaithfulNoble
North Africa (Morocco, Tunisia, Libya, Algeria) · 12–15 years
About the Sloughi
The Sloughi (pronounced 'SLOO-ghee'), also known as the Arabian Greyhound, is a noble, ancient sighthound from North Africa. For centuries, they have been treasured companions and hunters of the Berber and Bedouin peoples of Morocco, Tunisia, Libya, and Algeria. Sloughis are elegant, athletic, and sensitive dogs with a smooth, short coat and a dignified, somewhat melancholy expression. They are deeply devoted to their families but reserved — even wary — with strangers. Unlike many Western breeds, Sloughis maintain a cat-like independence and form deep, exclusive bonds with their chosen people.
Breed stats
- Height
- 24–29 in
- Weight
- 35–50 lbs
- Lifespan
- 12–15 years
- Group
- Hound
- Coat
- Short, smooth, fine, close-fitting
- Origin
- North Africa (Morocco, Tunisia, Libya, Algeria)
Coat colors
- Cream
- Mahogany
- Red
- Sand
- Fawn
- Brindle
Temperament & ratings
Compatibility
Exercise & feeding
Daily exercise
30–60 min
per day recommended
Daily food
1.5–2.5 cups
high-quality dry food
Common health issues
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Addison's disease
- Anesthesia sensitivity
- Bloat
- Allergies
Not every Sloughi will develop these conditions, but awareness helps with early detection. Regular veterinary checkups and choosing a responsible breeder who health-tests their dogs are the best preventive measures.
Can Sloughis eat...
- Can dogs eat blueberries?Safe
- Can dogs eat grapes?Toxic
- Can dogs eat bananas?Safe
- Can dogs eat chocolate?Toxic
- Can dogs eat watermelon?Safe
- Can dogs eat cheese?Caution
- Can dogs eat almonds?Caution
- Can dogs eat apples?Safe
Frequently Asked Questions
- Sloughis and Salukis are often confused but are distinct breeds from different regions. Sloughis originated in North Africa (Morocco, Tunisia, Libya, Algeria) among Berber peoples, while Salukis developed in the Middle East among Arab peoples. Sloughis have a smooth coat only, while Salukis come in smooth and feathered varieties. Sloughis tend to be more reserved and sensitive than Salukis. Both are ancient sighthounds built for desert hunting, but DNA studies confirm they are genetically distinct despite their similar appearance and shared cultural significance in their respective regions.
- Sloughis can be wonderful pets for the right owner but are not for everyone. They form deep, exclusive bonds with their family and are gentle, affectionate, and loyal at home. However, they are highly sensitive, reserved with strangers, and require patient, gentle handling. Harsh training methods are devastating to their confidence. They need daily exercise with opportunities to sprint in secure areas. Their strong prey drive makes them unsuitable for homes with small pets. Sloughis are best for experienced sighthound owners who appreciate their dignified, sensitive nature and can provide a calm, stable environment.
- Sloughis are very rare, especially in the West. They were only fully recognized by the AKC in 2016, and annual US registrations are minimal — often fewer than 50. They are more common in their North African homeland, particularly Morocco, where they remain hunting and companion dogs. Finding a Sloughi puppy in the US requires connecting with the small network of dedicated breeders, typically with a waiting list. Their rarity reflects both limited breeding population and the breed's specialized temperament that appeals to a niche audience of sighthound enthusiasts.
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