Sloughi
Also known as: Arabian Greyhound, Berber Greyhound
Energy Level
Apartment Friendly
Weight (Male)
50-63 lbs
Height (Male)
26-29 inches
Quick Facts
Coat Colors
Breed Summary
The Sloughi is a rare, elegant North African sighthound known for their loyalty, sensitivity, and graceful beauty. Reserved yet deeply devoted, these ancient desert hunters form strong bonds with their families.
History
An ancient breed from North Africa (Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya), the Sloughi has been bred by Berber and Bedouin peoples for centuries to hunt hare, fox, jackal, and gazelle. AKC recognized in 2016.
Appearance
A medium-large, lean sighthound with a short, smooth coat. Elegant, refined features with large, dark, melancholy eyes. Their build is athletic and aerodynamic, designed for speed in desert terrain.
Temperament
Reserved, noble, and deeply sensitive, the Sloughi is a one-family dog. They are intensely loyal to their people but very reserved with strangers. Their sensitivity requires a gentle, patient approach.
Personality Around Others
Very reserved with strangers—may take time to warm up to new people. Deeply bonded to family. Can be good with other dogs, especially sighthounds. Strong prey drive.
Exercise Needs
Moderate exercise needs. Daily walks and regular sprinting opportunities in a safe area. They are not high-energy at home. Calm and quiet indoors.
Training
Challenging due to their sensitivity and independence. Extremely gentle, positive methods only. Short sessions. They learn quickly but must trust their handler completely.
Grooming
Minimal grooming needs. Occasional brushing. Rare baths. Very clean dogs. Regular nail, ear, and dental care.
Health
Common Health Conditions
A generally healthy breed with few genetic issues. Sensitive to anesthesia and chemicals. Some lines may have autoimmune concerns. Regular eye screening is recommended.
Recommended Health Tests
- Ophthalmologist Evaluation
- PRA DNA Test
Average Annual Vet Cost
$700-$1,300
Nutrition
Do well on quality food. Naturally lean. Two meals daily. Not prone to obesity. Some can be picky eaters.
Living Environment
Adaptable to apartment living if exercised. Quiet and clean indoors. Need a warm environment. Secure fencing for outdoor areas.
Ideal Family
Best for experienced sighthound owners in quiet households. Ideal for those who appreciate a deeply loyal, one-family dog. Not ideal for busy, chaotic households.
Intelligence
Intelligent and observational. They assess situations carefully before acting. Independent thinkers with a keen awareness of their environment.
Barking
Frequency
Alert
Separation
Quiet Indoors
Very quiet breed. Rarely bark. Among the most silent of all dog breeds.
Shedding
Year-Round
Seasonal
Vacuum Factor 🧹
Hypoallergenic
Very low shedding. Their short, smooth coat produces minimal loose hair.
Weather Tolerance
☀️
Heat
❄️
Cold
🌧️
Rain
🌨️
Snow
💧
Humidity
Breed Ratings
Fun Facts
Sloughis have been depicted in North African art for thousands of years
They are considered noble and respected in Berber and Bedouin cultures
One of the rarest breeds in the United States
They can run at speeds exceeding 35 mph
Famous Dogs
Desert Hunters
Sloughis have served as hunting companions to Berber peoples for over 1,000 years
Common Myths
"They are the same as Salukis"
While similar, Sloughis are a distinct breed from North Africa with different characteristics
"They are unfriendly"
They are deeply loyal and affectionate with their family, just very reserved with strangers
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Sloughis rare?
Yes, they are one of the rarest breeds in the United States with very few breeders.
Are they good with other dogs?
Generally good with other dogs, especially other sighthounds. Early socialization helps.
Puppy Guide
Puppies are sensitive and need gentle socialization. Positive, gentle handling is essential. They can be shy and need patient introduction to new experiences.
Senior Care
Senior Sloughis need warm, comfortable environments. Continue gentle exercise. Monitor eye health. Their sensitive nature may increase with age.
Similar Breeds
Saluki
Similar ancient sighthound from the Middle East with feathered variety available
Greyhound
Similar build and quiet nature but more adaptable and common
Azawakh
Another African sighthound with similar temperament and build
Ownership Costs
Estimated Lifetime Cost
$14,000-$22,000
Pros and Cons
Pros
Extremely quiet and clean
Deeply loyal to family
Low grooming needs
Generally healthy
Cons
Very reserved with strangers
Extremely rare and expensive
Sensitive and needs gentle handling
Strong prey drive