Sloughi
Morocco, Short-haired Sighthounds
- Size
- Large
- Height
- 61–72 cm
- Weight
- 18–27 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–14 yrs
- Gentle
- Reserved
- Sensitive
- Fast
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Sloughi
The Sloughi is a lean North African sighthound, especially associated with Morocco, kept by nomadic and rural families to run down hare and gazelle across open country. It has a muscular but refined build, a fine smooth coat in sandy shades and a long, elegant head.
Temperament
Gentle, reserved and sensitive, it bonds closely with its own people but stays aloof with strangers. It has a strong chase drive and responds best to calm, kind handling.
Exercise
It needs regular walks and a place to stretch out and run flat out, which must be securely fenced because it will chase on sight. It is happy to lounge indoors afterwards.
Grooming
The smooth, fine coat needs little more than a rub down with a cloth or mitt, and it feels the cold so a coat helps in winter.
Care & wellbeing
Thin-skinned and lean, so provide soft bedding and warmth. Tell your vet about its sensitivity to anaesthetics. Keep on a lead near roads.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 22.5 kg adult- Water
- 900 ml–1.4 L
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 1,160 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- An occasional brush is plenty
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Sloughi
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A North African sighthound, developed by the Berber peoples to hunt gazelle, hare and fox. Elegant and fast, it is reserved with strangers and devoted to its family.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
- Sensitivity to anaesthetics
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- DNA test for PRA
- Eye tests
Not every Sloughi is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Higher than average- Food, insurance and medicines cost more for a big dog
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–14 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Sloughi right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
- This is your first dog — an independent breed can be a challenge to train
- You need a dog you can easily lift or carry
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Sloughi get?
Adult Sloughis typically stand about 61–72 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 18–27 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Sloughis live?
Typically 12–14 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Sloughi need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Sloughi need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Sloughis easy to train?
Often independent-minded, so training needs patience, consistency and high-value rewards.
Do Sloughis shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Sloughis good with children?
Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Sloughi live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Sloughis have?
The breed can be prone to progressive retinal atrophy (pra), sensitivity to anaesthetics. Not every Sloughi is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Morocco
- Type
- Short-haired Sighthounds
- Internationally recognised
- 1934