Sloughi Dog Breed Information - All About Dogs

Sloughi

Sloughi

SLOUGHI DOG BREED

Description:

The Sloughi is an ancient breed, originally from North Africa (Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, and Libya). This breed was bred for hunting foxes, hares, jackals, hyenas and wild boar. This dog is very appreciated by the Bedouins for their hunting skills, endurance, speed and agility. Because of the French occupation and rabies outbreak, the Sloughi almost went extinct. Even today, this breed is a rarity. The Sloughi was officially recognized by the AKC in 2016.

Height: 24-29 inches  Weight: 35-60 pounds  Lifespan: 12-15 years

Characteristics:

The Sloughi is a tall, elegant and slim dog. He is distinguished by nobility, elegance, refinement and gentility. This dog belongs to the Sighthound family, so it can run very fast and jump very high. Additionally, the Sloughi focuses on the object and can reach speeds up to 37 miles per hour (60 mph). These dogs are active, alert, intelligent and very affectionate. Comparable Breeds: The Saluki and Greyhound.

Character:

Loving and devoted, the Sloughi has a deep emotional attachment to his master and his family. This dog is not recommended for dog breeders without sufficient experience. Sloughis communicate well with teenagers and pets within the family. However, due to their strong hunting instinct, these dogs are not suitable for families who have a cat, small dog or other small animals. The Sloughi treats a stranger with caution, which makes it a very reliable guard. He is very sensitive, so any change of scenery or a slight change in his daily routine can make him feel stressful. Hence, this breed of dog needs a calm and harmonious home. The Sloughi cannot stand loneliness, and if left alone for a long time, he becomes destructive and unmanageable.

Coat / Care:

This breed has a smooth, short, thin, soft, thick hair, which is adherent to its body. The Sloughi come in sand, mahogany, red-black, brindle or brown-brindle. Black or white spots are approved. This dog sheds moderately. Periodically, the Sloughi needs brushing with a stiff brush. Bathe your dog only in case of extreme necessity, since Sloughis have very dry skin. Moreover, it is better to use a dry shampoo. This breed is not suitable for living in a cold climate.

Health Problems:

The Sloughi is generally healthy dog breed, but like all breeds, they can be prone to hemophilia and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). The Sloughi has a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years.

Weight / Height

The male Sloughi dog breed’s height is around 26 – 29 inches and weighs around 40 and 60 pounds. Female Sloughi dogs can reach a size from 24 – 27 inches and weighs between 35 and 50 pounds.

Training:

Sloughis are very clever dogs, and at the same time so stubborn and willful. Rigid teaching methodology is completely useless. On the contrary, this breed requires respectful treatment. Make sure to use positive reinforcement, like food reward and play. These dogs need extensive exposure to people. Otherwise, they can become overly shy or suspicious.

Activity:

The Sloughi needs exercise on the everyday basis. This dog is an excellent companion for jogging and he, furthermore, enjoys participating in family activities. This breed can live in a city apartment or townhouse, provided that it exercises sufficiently. Sloughis cannot be trusted without a leash while hiking.

Photo credit: Svenska Mässan/Flickr

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