Sloughi
Desert wind on four legs — aloof to the world, tender at home.
Vital stats
| Size | Large · 61–72 cm |
| Weight | 18–28 kg |
| Life expectancy | 12–15 years |
| Energy | Moderate — short sprints, long naps |
| Shedding | Low |
| Coat | Fine, smooth coat · sand to fawn, often black mask |
| Group | Hound · FCI №188 / AKC |
| Origin | Maghreb, North Africa |
| FCI group | 10 — Sighthounds · FCI 188 |
Breed traits
Friendliness
Care
Mind
The Sloughi by the numbers
The Sloughi facts owners search for most — price, lifespan, weight, shedding and colours, in one place.
Less common, so expect a waitlist and some travel to a reputable breeder — which pushes the price up. Plan for steady ongoing costs — mid-range food, routine vet care and insurance.
We don't quote a single figure: the real price swings with breeder, region, bloodline and health testing — and a rescue costs a fraction of a breeder's litter. Adopting is almost always the cheapest route.
Temperament
For centuries the Sloughi coursed gazelle and hare across the Maghreb, and the wiring remains: explosive speed, independent judgement, and eyes that lock onto movement half a field away. At home it is calm, clean and quietly attached — a dignified housemate that gives affection on its own terms and startles at rough handling.
Habits & quirks
The long stare
Something moved on the horizon; everything else can wait.
Sofa sighthound
Between sprints, the Sloughi is essentially a decorative cushion.
Personal-space policy
Affection is offered, not extracted — it will come to you.
The double-take trot
Even a walk to the bin is performed with runway elegance.
Care
| Exercise | Regular free-running sprints in a securely fenced area beat long plods — then it sleeps. |
| Containment | A sighted rabbit outranks any recall; keep it leashed near roads and open country. |
| Comfort | Thin skin and little body fat mean soft bedding and a coat in cold weather. |
| Training | Short, gentle, reward-based sessions — this sensitive breed wilts under harsh correction. |
Life expectancy
This breed has a typical life expectancy of 12–15 years.
Similar breeds
Breeds with a similar build and background — worth a look if this one isn't quite the fit.
Breeds that look like this
Common questions
Is a Sloughi the same as a Saluki?
No — the Sloughi is a distinct smooth-coated sighthound from North-west Africa, while the Saluki hails from the Middle East and often carries feathering. They share the sighthound outline but differ in origin and standard.
Can a Sloughi live with cats?
Sometimes, if raised with them indoors — but the chase instinct never fully switches off, especially outdoors. Introductions must be careful and supervised.
Are Sloughis affectionate?
With their own people, genuinely — in an understated, cat-like way. They are reserved with strangers, and that aloofness is correct for the breed, not a flaw.
Does the Sloughi shed a lot?
Not much. The Sloughi is a low-shedding breed, so loose hair around the home stays minimal. It still needs regular grooming, but you won't be fighting drifts of fur.
Is the Sloughi hypoallergenic?
No dog is truly hypoallergenic, but the Sloughi comes closer than most: its low-shedding coat releases less of the dander that triggers allergies. Many allergy sufferers manage well with this breed, but spend time around one before committing.
Is the Sloughi good with children?
It depends. The Sloughi tends to be more reserved, so it suits older, calmer children better than boisterous toddlers. Early socialisation and careful, supervised introductions matter more with this breed.
Is the Sloughi easy to train?
They can be a challenge. The Sloughi is intelligent but independent, and would rather make its own decisions than take orders. Reward-based training and patience work best; expect recall in particular to take time.