Sloughi Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20264 min read

The Sloughi is an elegant North African sighthound, long used by nomadic people in Morocco, Algeria and Tunisia for hunting hares and gazelles. It is lean and swift, sensitive and devoted, and rare in most countries.

Origins and appearance

The breed developed in North Africa and was prized by tribes who regarded it as a family member. Sloughis are tall and lean, with a long, refined head, drop ears, a deep chest, a smooth, fine coat in sand, fawn or brindle, often with a dark mask, and a thin, curved tail.

Temperament

They are gentle, reserved and loyal. They bond closely with family and are aloof with strangers. They are sensitive. They chase moving animals. They are quiet indoors. They dislike harsh handling and cold.

Exercise

They need daily exercise, with walks and safe, fenced sprinting. A tall, secure fence is vital. Never trust them off-leash outside fenced areas.

Training

They are intelligent but independent. Use gentle, positive methods and patience. Avoid harsh corrections. Early socialization is important to prevent shyness. Recall is unreliable. See recall training guide.

Coat and grooming

The smooth coat needs weekly brushing. See short coat dog grooming guide. Trim nails, clean ears and brush teeth. They need a coat in cold weather.

Health considerations

The breed is generally hardy, but topics include:

• Progressive retinal atrophy, with a DNA test
• Bloat. See bloat and GDV in dogs
• Sensitivity to anesthesia
• Heart conditions
• Skin injuries

Living with a Sloughi

A Sloughi suits a quiet, patient owner with a secure garden. These dogs are reserved, sensitive and bond closely with their family, so they do best in calm households with few surprises. Many dislike rough handling and loud environments.

A typical day

A Sloughi might take a morning walk, rest on a padded bed, stretch in a run and spend the evening close to its person. Many watch the world quietly rather than demand attention.

Puppies and the first year

Sloughi puppies are shy and observant, so introduce new people and places gently and let the puppy set the pace. Give a balanced diet and avoid heavy exercise on hard surfaces during growth. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Expect to pay for fencing, coats, good food and sighthound-aware veterinary care. The breed is uncommon outside North Africa and parts of Europe, so import costs and waiting lists are possible. See dog vet cost guide.

Seasons and travel

Sloughis tolerate heat, but their thin coats mean they feel the cold. A fleece or coat helps on winter walks. Introduce a car harness early since many are wary of new experiences.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include trusting off-leash recall, harsh training, weak fencing and neglecting socialization.

Choosing a puppy or adult

Ask about eye tests, and the parents' temperaments. The breed is rare, so expect a wait.

A sensitive soul

Sloughis are known for sensitivity. They watch, learn and bond slowly. Early positive exposure to people, sounds and places prevents shyness, and patience builds trust.

North African tradition

In its homelands, the Sloughi lives close to families, often sleeping in tents. At home, offer a warm bed, a quiet corner and gentle company.

Training notes

Sloughis dislike repetition and harshness. Use short, upbeat sessions, rewards and calm voices, and teach a few essentials. Keep expectations realistic about off-leash behavior.

Daily care checklist

• A walk and a short sprint in a secure space.
• A wipe-over with a soft cloth.
• Nail trimming and tooth care.
• A warm bed.
• Gentle socialization practice.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Sloughi suits patient owners who want a quiet, sensitive sighthound and can provide warmth and a secure fence. It may not suit those wanting an outgoing dog. For a related breed, see the Saluki.

Finding a Sloughi

Outside North Africa and a few European countries, Sloughis are scarce, and most puppies are placed through breed clubs and small breeders who care about temperament and type. Expect to complete a questionnaire, talk about your fencing and home, and possibly travel or wait a year. Ask about eye testing, since progressive retinal atrophy occurs, and request to meet adult dogs so you can see how they behave around strangers.

Indoor life

Most Sloughis are tidy and quiet indoors, and many prefer to sleep curled on a sofa under a blanket. Provide a thick bed away from drafts and keep the dog's nails short to avoid snagging on flooring.

The takeaway

Sloughis are lean, reserved and loyal, and they need secure fencing, warmth and gentle handling.