Sloughi Dog Breed Information, Puppies & Breeders

Are you considering adding a Sloughi to your family? This unique breed of dog originates from North Africa and is known for their athleticism, loyalty, and grace. Sloughis are a rare breed in the United States, with only around 100 new puppies registered each year. While they may not be the right fit for everyone, those who are willing to put in the time and effort to properly care for a Sloughi will be rewarded with a devoted companion. In this article, we will provide an overview of the Sloughi breed and what it takes to provide them with a happy and healthy life.

Breed Category: Hound
Country of Origin: Morocco
Average Size:61-72 cm
Average Weight:20-30 kg
Average Life Span: 12-15 years
Grooming Requirements: Low
Exercise Requirements:High

History and Origin

The Sloughi is a breed of dog that originated in North Africa, specifically in the region that is now Morocco. The breed is believed to have been developed by the Berber people, who used the dogs for hunting and as guardians of their homes and livestock. The Sloughi is a sighthound, which means that it hunts by sight rather than by scent.

The Sloughi is a very old breed, with a history that can be traced back to ancient times. The breed is thought to have been developed from a combination of local North African dogs and dogs that were brought to the region by traders and travelers from other parts of the world. The Sloughi was highly valued by the Berber people, who considered the dogs to be a symbol of wealth and status.

The Sloughi was first introduced to Europe in the late 19th century, when French and British soldiers brought the dogs back with them after serving in North Africa. The breed quickly gained popularity among dog enthusiasts in Europe, and breeders began working to establish a standard for the breed. The first Sloughi breed club was established in France in 1925, and the breed was officially recognized by the French Kennel Club in 1928.

Despite its popularity in Europe, the Sloughi remained relatively unknown in the United States until the 1970s. The first Sloughi was imported to the United States in 1973, and the breed was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2016. Today, the Sloughi is still primarily used as a hunting dog in its native North Africa, but it is also kept as a companion animal in many parts of the world.

The Sloughi is a medium-sized dog, with a lean and muscular build. The breed is known for its speed and agility, and is capable of running at high speeds for extended periods of time. The Sloughi has a short, smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors, including cream, fawn, red, and black. The breed is known for its intelligence and loyalty, and is generally good with children and other animals.

In conclusion, the Sloughi is a fascinating breed with a rich history and a unique set of characteristics. From its origins as a hunting dog in North Africa to its current status as a beloved companion animal around the

Size and Breed Category

The Sloughi is a medium to large-sized breed of dog that originated in North Africa. They are known for their lean and athletic build, with a height range of 61-72cm and a weight range of 20-30kg. Their coat is short and smooth, with a range of colours including cream, red, fawn, black, and brindle. The Sloughi is a sighthound breed, which means they were originally bred for hunting and chasing prey by sight rather than scent. They are known for their speed and agility, and are often used for racing and lure coursing. Despite their hunting background, the Sloughi is a gentle and affectionate breed that makes a loyal companion.

The Sloughi is classified as a hound breed, specifically a sighthound, by the Kennel Club. They are a rare breed in the UK, with only a small number of registered puppies each year. The Sloughi is a breed that requires regular exercise and mental stimulation, as they have a high energy level and a strong prey drive. They are not recommended for households with small pets, as their hunting instincts may lead them to chase and potentially harm smaller animals. The Sloughi is a breed that thrives on human companionship and is known for their loyalty and affection towards their owners. They are a unique and beautiful breed that requires a dedicated and experienced owner to provide them with the care and attention they need.

Fur Length and Colour

The fur of the Sloughi is typically short and smooth, with a dense undercoat that provides insulation against the cold. The fur is also quite fine and silky to the touch, giving the dog a sleek and elegant appearance. The most common colours for the Sloughi’s fur are sand, red, and fawn, although black, brindle, and cream are also seen. The fur may have white markings on the chest, feet, and tail tip, but these are not always present. Overall, the fur of the Sloughi is a defining characteristic of the breed, adding to its beauty and grace.

The length of the Sloughi’s fur is relatively short, with a maximum length of around 2.5 cm. This makes the breed well-suited to warmer climates, as the fur does not trap heat and cause the dog to overheat. The fur is also easy to maintain, requiring only occasional brushing to remove loose hairs and keep the coat looking shiny and healthy. Despite its short length, the fur of the Sloughi is still quite soft and luxurious, adding to the dog’s overall appeal. Whether in the show ring or as a beloved family pet, the Sloughi’s fur is sure to turn heads and capture hearts.

Termperament and Trainability

Sloughis are known for their independent and aloof temperament. They are not typically as outgoing or friendly as some other breeds, and may take some time to warm up to strangers. However, they are fiercely loyal to their families and can be very affectionate with those they know well. Sloughis are also known for their high prey drive, which can make them difficult to train in certain situations. They may be prone to chasing small animals or becoming distracted by their surroundings, which can make obedience training a challenge. However, with patience and consistency, Sloughis can be trained to follow basic commands and even excel in activities like lure coursing or agility.

When it comes to trainability, Sloughis are a bit of a mixed bag. On one hand, they are intelligent and quick learners when they are motivated. They are also very sensitive to their owner’s emotions and can pick up on subtle cues, which can make them responsive to training methods that rely on positive reinforcement. However, Sloughis can also be stubborn and independent, which can make them resistant to training if they don’t see the point or if they feel like they are being forced to do something they don’t want to do. Additionally, their high prey drive can make them easily distracted, which can make it difficult to keep their attention during training sessions. Overall, Sloughis can be trained successfully with the right approach, but it may take some extra effort and patience to get them to cooperate.

Known Health Conditions

Sloughis are a breed of dog that are known to be generally healthy. However, like all breeds, they are prone to certain health conditions. One of the most common health issues that Sloughis face is hip dysplasia. This is a condition where the hip joint does not develop properly, leading to pain and discomfort for the dog. Sloughis can also suffer from eye problems such as progressive retinal atrophy, which can lead to blindness. Additionally, they may be prone to certain skin conditions such as allergies and dermatitis. It is important for Sloughi owners to be aware of these potential health issues and to take their dog for regular check-ups with a veterinarian.

Another health condition that Sloughis may be prone to is bloat, also known as gastric torsion. This is a serious condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists, cutting off blood supply to the organs. Bloat can be life-threatening and requires immediate veterinary attention. Sloughis may also be at risk for heart conditions such as dilated cardiomyopathy, which can lead to heart failure. It is important for Sloughi owners to be aware of the signs of these health conditions and to seek veterinary care if they suspect their dog may be suffering from any of them. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and preventative care can help keep Sloughis healthy and happy.

Openness to Strangers

Sloughis, a sighthound breed originating from North Africa, possess a remarkable openness to strangers. These dogs are known for their friendly and sociable nature, making them an ideal companion for families with children. Sloughis are not only affectionate towards their owners but also towards strangers, which makes them an excellent choice for those who love to entertain guests. They are always eager to meet new people and make new friends, and their gentle and calm demeanor makes them a popular choice for therapy work. Sloughis are also known for their loyalty and devotion to their owners, which makes them an excellent watchdog.

Sloughis are highly intelligent and independent dogs, which makes them an excellent choice for experienced dog owners. They are known for their ability to adapt to new environments and situations, which makes them an ideal choice for those who love to travel. Sloughis are also highly trainable, and they respond well to positive reinforcement training methods. They are known for their athleticism and agility, which makes them an excellent choice for those who love to participate in dog sports such as lure coursing and agility. Sloughis are also known for their high energy levels, which means they require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy.

Playfulness Level

The Sloughi is a highly energetic and playful breed of dog that loves to run and play. They are known for their agility and speed, making them excellent companions for those who enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, running, and cycling. Their playful nature makes them great with children, as they love to play games and chase after toys. However, they do require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy.

The Sloughi’s playful nature also extends to their interactions with other dogs. They are known for their friendly and sociable personalities, and they enjoy playing with other dogs of all sizes. However, they can be quite independent and may prefer to play on their own at times. Overall, the Sloughi is a fun-loving and playful breed that makes a great companion for those who enjoy an active lifestyle.

Suitability as a Pet for Children

Sloughis have a gentle and affectionate nature, making them a suitable pet for children who are able to handle their size and energy levels. They are loyal and protective of their family, but can be reserved with strangers. Sloughis require regular exercise and mental stimulation, and may not be suitable for families who cannot provide them with enough activity. They have a short, smooth coat that requires minimal grooming. Sloughis are a breed that thrives on human companionship and may not do well if left alone for long periods of time.

Exercise Needs

Sloughis are a breed that require a moderate amount of exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. They are a sighthound breed that were originally bred for hunting in the deserts of North Africa, so they have a natural inclination towards running and chasing. A daily walk of at least 30 minutes is recommended, but they will also benefit from additional exercise such as running, hiking, or playing in a fenced yard. It is important to note that Sloughis have a strong prey drive and should always be kept on a leash or in a secure area to prevent them from chasing after small animals.

In addition to physical exercise, Sloughis also require mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. They are intelligent dogs that enjoy learning new things, so training sessions and interactive toys can be a great way to keep them mentally engaged. Sloughis also thrive on human companionship and should not be left alone for long periods of time. They are a sensitive breed that can become anxious or depressed if they feel neglected. Overall, providing a balance of physical and mental exercise, along with plenty of love and attention, will help ensure that Sloughis are happy and healthy companions.

Suitability for a Multi-Pet Family

Sloughis have a reputation for being independent and reserved. They are not known to be aggressive towards other animals, but their hunting instincts may cause them to chase smaller pets. It is important to socialize Sloughis with other animals from a young age to prevent any potential conflicts. Additionally, it is recommended to supervise interactions between Sloughis and other pets.

Housing Requirements

Sloughis require a living space that is large enough to accommodate their active and energetic nature. They need a home with a secure and spacious garden where they can run and play freely. The garden should be fenced to prevent them from escaping and should have enough space for them to exercise and play. Sloughis are known for their love of running, so it is important that they have access to a large outdoor space where they can run and stretch their legs. Additionally, Sloughis require a comfortable and cozy indoor space where they can rest and relax after a long day of play. The indoor space should be well-ventilated and have enough room for them to move around comfortably.

Sloughis also require a comfortable and soft bed where they can rest and sleep. The bed should be large enough to accommodate their size and should be made of soft and comfortable materials. Sloughis are sensitive to extreme temperatures, so it is important that their bed is placed in a warm and cozy area of the house. Additionally, Sloughis require a healthy and balanced diet that is rich in protein and nutrients. Their diet should be tailored to their age, size, and activity level, and should be provided in appropriate portions throughout the day. Proper nutrition is essential for their overall health and well-being.

Summary

Sloughis can make great pets for those who are willing to provide them with the necessary exercise and attention. They are a breed that requires a lot of physical activity and mental stimulation, so they may not be suitable for those who have a sedentary lifestyle or are unable to commit to regular exercise. However, for those who are able to meet their needs, Sloughis can be loyal and affectionate companions. It is important to note that they may have a strong prey drive and may not be suitable for households with small pets.

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