Sloughi

The lean, long-legged Sloughi (pronunciation: Sloo-ghee) is a breed of medium- to large-sized dogs indigenous to some North African countries. A robust, athletic hound with grace and class, the Sloughi is treasured for its speed, endurance, and hunting skills.
It has a long wedge-shaped, refined head with large, dark eyes, and medium-sized drooping ears; flat, slightly curved ribs with moderately wide chest; short, straight back, lean, slightly arched loin, and a somewhat angular shape with a tucked up belly.

Sloughi Pictures

History

The Sloughi is believed to be an ancient breed, mentioned in many historical books including Al Mansur’s 13th-century written the account. In fact, old fragments of ancient earthenware depicted a short-haired sighthound that resembled a Sloughi.

Used as hunting dogs by chiefs and kings, the breeders made sure that the hounds were of pure blood. The owners would travel a great distance to find the right mating partner for the female Sloughis. Originally, two kinds of Sloughis were bred including the larger mountain-type and the smaller desert-type.

Recent DNA analysis has highlighted that these sighthounds are genetically unique, and they have some traits in common with the Nguni, Sica, and Basenji, indicating that their ancestors may have lived thousands of years ago. It became an AKC-recognized breed in January 2016.

Temperament and Behavior

Known to be affectionate with its people, the Sloughi is calm and quiet indoors, often seen lying on soft bedding, blankets, and rugs. However, it is cautious with strangers, emitting loud barks if it feels that there is an intrusion in its territory.

Although it gels with older kids and accepts the presence of household animals it grows up with, the sighthound is not an ideal match for families with toddlers who do not know how to interact with a dog. Its inherent curiosity, independence, and stubborn nature could be overwhelming for an inexperienced dog owner. Moreover, it has a strong chasing instinct, further triggered by a small, fast-moving object.

Training

• When you bring a puppy home, you can start socializing. Heading to the dog park and watching other canines run, play, and interact will help your dog in making new acquaintances. Moreover, you can invite friends to come over to your house and ask them to give treats along with petting your Sloughi affectionately. In this way, your pet dog will get accustomed to being touched by your guests.
• Since the Sloughis have an inherent prey drive, you need to challenge their instinctual behavior so that it becomes a “play” instead of a “hunt.” If you see your pet chasing a squirrel, cat, or a small dog in the yard, you can bring a leftover steak, hot dog, or piece of chicken and hide it in the hand. Once it catches the scent of the treat, its attention will shift from the prey. Put its leash on and then provide the treat. Wait until it relaxes, and then bring your Sloughi into the house.

Feeding

An adult Sloughi should be given four meals a day including quality dry dog food. A small amount of cottage cheese, cooked eggs, fruits, and vegetables can form a part of its regular diet.

Interesting Facts

• The Sloughi has a feather-light gait with moderate strides.