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Sloughi

Sloughi is a large hound breed from Morocco also known as Arabian Greyhound, Sloughi Moghrebi.

Breed overview

Sloughi is a large hound breed from Morocco also known as Arabian Greyhound, Sloughi Moghrebi.

An ancient North African sighthound bred by Berber tribes for over 1,000 years to hunt gazelles, wild boar, and jackals across desert terrain. Considered sacred by their nomadic owners and traditionally never sold, only given as prestigious gifts.

People looking into Sloughi usually prepare for Moderate exercise needs, Low grooming needs, 35–50 lbs • 24–29 in.

Arabian GreyhoundSloughi Moghrebi

History and origin

Sloughi is tied to originating from Morocco, specifically North Africa, with sources often placing its development around 1000 BCE.

Sloughi is described here as placed in the hound group and marked as an established breed.

An ancient North African sighthound bred by Berber tribes for over 1,000 years to hunt gazelles, wild boar, and jackals across desert terrain. Considered sacred by their nomadic owners and traditionally never sold, only given as prestigious gifts.

Quick facts

Breed group
hound
Size
Large
Origin country
Morocco
Region
North Africa
Origin year
1000 BCE
Weight
35–50 lbs
Height
24–29 in
Lifespan
12–16 years
Breed status
Established

Traits and day-to-day fit

Energy level
3 / 5
Trainability
2 / 5
Good with children
3 / 5
Shedding level
2 / 5
Barking tendency
2 / 5
Moderate exercise needsLow grooming needsChildren score: 3/5Trainability: 2/5

Coat and classification

Sloughi is grouped here with these coat and texture descriptors.

ShortSmoothFine

Sloughi is also listed as recognized by these kennel-club organizations.

Recognized by AKCRecognized by FCIRecognized by CKCRecognized by KCRecognized by KCA

Appearance and build

  • Elegant, lean sighthound with square proportions
  • Short, smooth coat in sand to mahogany colors
  • Distinctive dark mask around eyes and ears
  • Long, narrow head with gentle, melancholic expression

What this breed is known for

  • An ancient North African sighthound bred by Berber tribes for over 1,000 years to hunt gazelles, wild boar, and jackals across desert terrain. Considered sacred by their nomadic owners and traditionally never sold, only given as prestigious gifts.
  • Featured in ancient Moroccan and Tunisian art dating back centuries, they were the hunting companions of kings and nobles. The breed was so valued that touching someone else's Sloughi without permission was considered a grave insult.
  • Nearly extinct in the 1960s due to political upheaval in North Africa. The breed was saved by a few dedicated European enthusiasts who obtained dogs before borders closed, making them extremely rare with fewer than 1,000 worldwide.

Health and care notes

Sloughi is noted here for Moderate exercise needs and Low grooming needs.

  • Heart Conditions
  • Eye Conditions
  • Bloat
  • Hypothyroidism

Coat details: Short, Smooth, Fine

These are informational breed-guide notes, not veterinary advice.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the Sloughi come from?

Sloughi is closely associated with Morocco, especially North Africa in the sources used for this page.

How big does a Sloughi get?

Typical size details for Sloughi on this page are 35–50 lbs, 24–29 in, 12–16 years.

What is the Sloughi known for?

An ancient North African sighthound bred by Berber tribes for over 1,000 years to hunt gazelles, wild boar, and jackals across desert terrain. Considered sacred by their nomadic owners and traditionally never sold, only given as prestigious gifts.

Sources and citations

References below include kennel-club profiles, breed standards, and supporting background links for deeper reading.
  1. American Kennel Club breed profile
    American Kennel Club
  2. Royal Kennel Club breed profile
    The Royal Kennel Club
  3. Royal Kennel Club breed standard
    The Royal Kennel Club • Breed standard
  4. Sloughi reference page
    Wikipedia

Use the linked breed directories and standards for deeper reference. Breed guides are informational and do not replace veterinary or breeder advice.