A lean, elegant sighthound with long legs and very little body fat, covered in a fine, close, very short coat. It stands taller at the shoulder than it is long in the body.43
Colourslight sand to red sand (fawn), in all shadeswith or without black maskblack mantlebrindleblack overlay4
Personality what they are like
A noble, somewhat aloof hound that is reserved with strangers but tender and deeply attached to its own people. It is sensitive and intelligent, responds best to gentle and patient training, and is calm and quiet at home after a good run.4253
Daily activity how busy a day looks
Needs regular exercise including chances to sprint in a securely fenced area, plus daily walks and play. Has a strong chase instinct, so off-lead running is best kept to safe, enclosed spaces.32
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Very easy: an occasional brush keeps the short coat clean and shiny.3
Home where they are happiest
Enjoys home comforts and a soft bed, with access to secure outdoor space for running. Copes very well with hot, dry climates.42
Company who they like around
Bonds closely with its family and is alert and protective of its home. Early socialisation helps it relax with visitors and can help it live peacefully with cats and small pets.23
The story where it all began
The Sloughi has lived in North Africa for many centuries, with sighthound figures appearing in ancient rock art and Egyptian tomb images. Berber and Bedouin peoples kept it to hunt gazelle, hare and other game in the desert and to watch over camp. Its name is thought to be another pronunciation of 'saluki'.234
This morning, I stretched out on the cool tiles after my humans left for work. The sun crept across the floor, and I followed it, napping in each warm patch. Later, we went to the big fenced field, I sprinted in wide circles, the wind streaming through my ears. My human laughed and called me a blur. Now we're curled on the sofa, my head on her lap. She strokes my back and whispers that I'm her gentle shadow. Life is good when you have a soft bed and a steady heart beside you.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
Recognised by the official bits
FCI
Standard no. 188, Group 10 (Sighthounds), Section 3 short-haired sighthounds; definitive recognition 8 Nov 1934; standard published 8 Jan 1998; country Morocco.1
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Sloughi, and at what times?
Feed your adult Sloughi at least two meals a day at consistent times, as their stomach empties within a few hours. Puppies need three to four smaller meals. For exact amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.6
What should a Sloughi eat, and which foods are dangerous?
A high-quality dog food suited to their age and activity level is best. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts, so keep these far away. Always avoid alcohol, yeast dough, and raw bones too.7
How often should I bathe a Sloughi?
Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every 8 weeks, but you can bathe more often if your dog gets dirty or has skin issues. Their short coat dries quickly and doesn't need frequent washing.8Pet Wiki plan
How often does a Sloughi need brushing?
A weekly brush is enough to keep their short, fine coat shiny and remove loose hair. Furry Diary's plan recommends brushing every 7 days, which fits their low-maintenance coat perfectly.3Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Sloughi's nails, and how often?
Trim nails about every 4 weeks, or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Use a dog nail trimmer and cut small amounts at a time, stopping before the quick to avoid pain.8Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does a Sloughi need?
Your Sloughi needs daily walks and play, plus chances to sprint in a securely fenced area. They have a strong chase instinct, so off-lead running is best in safe, enclosed spaces. Furry Diary's plan includes daily exercise.32Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Sloughi's teeth and ears?
Brush their teeth two to three times a week with dog toothpaste; daily is ideal. Check ears every two weeks, gently wiping the outer ear, and never push anything into the ear canal.8Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Sloughi live?
Sloughis have a lovely long lifespan of 12 to 16 years, so you can enjoy many happy years together.3
Is a Sloughi good with children and other pets?
With early socialisation, Sloughis can be gentle and good with children and other pets, including cats. They are deeply attached to their family but reserved with strangers, so proper introductions help everyone feel comfortable.23
Can a Sloughi be left alone?
Sloughis bond closely with their family and are sensitive, so they may not enjoy long periods alone. How well they cope varies; ask a good breeder or your vet for advice tailored to your dog's personality.
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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