Overview
The Sloughi is the desert sighthound of Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia and Libya, kept by nomadic people to hunt hare, gazelle and jackal. It is lean and muscular with a short, fine coat in sand, fawn or brindle, and carries itself with a quiet dignity. It is distinct from the Saluki and should not be confused with it.
Sloughis are devoted to their own household and politely distant with everyone else. They are sensitive to tone and handling, and a raised voice or rough grip will set the relationship back. They are also extremely fast and genuinely driven to chase.
Exercise and walking needs
An hour and a quarter a day, including a free gallop in a secure space, keeps an adult content. Like most sighthounds the Sloughi works in bursts: a few minutes of flat-out running followed by long, elegant loafing.
Cold, wet weather is a real problem. With almost no body fat and a thin coat, the dog needs a proper fitted coat in winter and shorter outings when it is raining.
On the walk
- Recall: Good in calm surroundings and useless once a rabbit moves. The dog will be out of sight in seconds. Fenced fields only for free running.
- Pulling: Light. The Sloughi walks softly on a lead, but a sudden lunge at prey is strong. A wide sighthound collar or snug harness prevents slipping.
- Other dogs: Gentle and reserved, often preferring other sighthounds. Rough play from heavy dogs is not welcome.
- Handling: Approach calmly, avoid looming over the dog and give it time. Sloughis remember an unpleasant handler.
Tips for professional walkers
- Carry a warm, waterproof coat for the dog from autumn to spring and put it on before the dog starts shivering.
- Scout for hazards before a free run: wire, roads, livestock and small dogs.
- Check pads and the fine skin on the legs after a gallop; grazes are common and heal slowly in the cold.
What to ask the owner
- Where does the owner let the dog run free, and has it ever chased wildlife or livestock?
- How does the dog react to a stranger holding the lead, and what helps it relax?
- Does the dog wear a coat, and at what point in cold or wet weather does the owner shorten walks?