Sloughi Guide 2025: Vet-Approved Arabian Greyhound 🐶🌍

By Dr. Duncan Houston BVSc

📜 Ancient Origins & Desert Heritage

The Sloughi (also spelled “Suluki”)—sometimes called the “Arabian Greyhound” or Uskay—is one of the world’s oldest sighthound breeds, originating in the arid landscapes of Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, and Libya. Its lineage stretches back thousands of years, with depictions of sighthounds identifiably similar to the Sloughi appearing in North African rock art and early Egyptian art.

Used by nomadic Berber tribes, these graceful hunters chased gazelles, hares, foxes, jackals, and wild game across the Sahara, revered for their stamina, keen sight, and loyalty. Though officially recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) in 1998 and by the AKC in 2016, the Sloughi remains rare outside its native range.

🐕 Physical Characteristics & Ideal Owner Profile

• Height: 24–29 in (61–72 cm); Weight: 35–65 lb (16–30 kg).
• Lifespan: 12–15 years.
• Coat: Short, smooth, single coat in shades like sand, cream, fawn, and brindle—with minimal grooming needs.
• Build: Lean, muscular, and built for endurance over long distances; narrow head, deep chest, and swift gait.

The Sloughi is ideal for active, experienced guardians who can dedicate daily exercise, enrichment, and leadership. Their elegant appearance belies a strong-willed and athletic background.

🧬 Health & Genetic Screening Essentials

Generally robust, Sloughis do benefit from key health screenings:

• Eye Exams: Annual check-ups for glaucoma, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)—a DNA test is available.
• Bloodwork: Test for Addison’s disease (autoimmune adrenal insufficiency) and monitor GI sensitivities.
• Orthopedic: Hips and elbows are naturally sound but may still benefit from early evaluation.
• Anesthetic Sensitivity: Like all sighthounds, Sloughis need special veterinary anesthesia protocols.

Working with a reputable breeder who provides health history and performs screenings ensures you’re getting a healthy foundation for a lifelong companion.

🎭 Temperament & Behavior Science

Sloughis are described as loyal and affectionate with family, yet aloof with strangers—a dignified breed with strong natural instincts. Bred to protect camps and alert to danger, they make sensitive and observant watchdogs. Studies show that selective socialization during puppyhood is key to balanced confidence.

They respond best to gentle, reward-based training methods—avoid harsh tools or techniques. Early exposure to people, sights, and sounds builds trust and reduces wariness. A Reddit owner noted: > “They bond deeply and will guard their people—but socialization is essential.”

Overall, Sloughis form a deep emotional bond with their family and flourish in calm, structured environments.

🏃 Exercise Needs & Mental Enrichment

With roots in desert hunting, Sloughis need at least 60–90 minutes of daily exercise including:

• Off-leash gallops in secure areas to honor their sprint heritage
• Long walks or hikes—preferably varied terrain
• Scent work, allowed chase, and interactive games—for mental satisfaction

Activities like lure coursing align beautifully with their nature. Tools like Woopf™ help provide recall reinforcement, mental puzzles, and structure to daily training.

🧼 Grooming & Coat Care

Low-maintenance grooming keeps this lean coat in peak condition:

• Weekly brushing to remove loose hair and shine coat
• Monthly bathing with gentle, moisture-balancing shampoo
• Routine oral care—daily brushing or dental chews to avoid periodontal disease
• Weekly ear hygiene to prevent infections
• Regular nail trims to support sound posture

Their short coat sheds modestly year-round and requires minimal trimming—providing a polished look with minimal effort.

🍽️ Nutrition & Feeding Guidelines

Feed a high-quality, high-performance formula based on weight and activity:

• Puppies: 3–4 meals daily for steady growth
• Adults: 2 meals daily, adjusted for energy needs
• Supplements: Fish oil or joint support for muscle and joint wellness
• Treats: Limited to < 10 % of daily calories—use healthy options during training

Consult your vet for portion adjustments to maintain lean condition and support gut health.

🏥 Routine Veterinary Care

• Annual check-ups: eyes, blood panels, cardiac auscultation, orthopedic evaluation
• Parasite prevention and vaccinations as recommended
• Dental exams to monitor oral hygiene and prevent plaque buildup
• Nutrition reviews to ensure optimal body condition

Sloughis are generally healthy when preventive care is consistent, but with occasional hereditary conditions possible—your vet can guide timely interventions.

👪 Family Fit & Living Situation

• ✅ Ideal for experienced dog owners, active couples, or families with older children
• ⚠️ Not suited to apartment life without a secure yard and ample daily exercise
• 🐾 May live with other dogs or cats if introduced early—but should never be trusted with small prey on unsupervised outings

They prefer a calm home environment without chaotic stimuli. Too much noise or activity can make them anxious, while too little movement may cause boredom behaviors.

🎯 Dr Houston’s Sloughi Wellness Checklist

• 📆 Annual vet review including ocular, blood, cardiac, and dental screening
• 🏃 60–90 minutes of structured exercise daily
  
• 🧼 Weekly coat and ear care plus monthly bathing
• 🦷 Daily dental hygiene
  
• 📱 Consult Ask A Vet for health queries, behavioral changes, or training adjustments

🎬 Pop‑Culture & Breed Recognition

Though rarely spotlighted in mainstream media, the Sloughi is celebrated among breed enthusiasts for its regal presence and heritage—honored in art and desert lore. Its royal poise and sighthound agility have made occasional appearances in cultural representations of North Africa’s desert guardians.

🧳 Travel & Climate Adaptability

• ☀ Rides and crate-travelers: acclimate slowly for trips abroad
• 🥵 Strong heat tolerance from heritage—still provide shade and hydration
• ☔ Coat handles mild moisture, but require protection in wet/cold conditions

Test their recall and trail management before allowing off-leash adventures in unfamiliar areas.

🌟 Final Summary & Lifestyle Fit

The Sloughi is a dignified, athletic, and softly bonded canine companion—perfect for active, attentive guardians who honor its sacred sighthound legacy. With structured exercise, vet care, consistent training, and mental enrichment, the Sloughi becomes a loyal, responsive friend, embodying desert nobility and quiet devotion for over a decade.

Ready to elevate your Sloughi’s health, training, or grooming routine? Visit AskAVet.com or download the Ask A Vet app for round‑the‑clock expert guidance. 📱🐾