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Sloughi
Hound breed from North Africa
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Sloughi
The Sloughi is a large, elegant sighthound originating from North Africa, where it was historically used by Berber and Bedouin tribes for hunting desert game such as gazelle, hare, fox, and jackal over vast distances. It has a lean, athletic build and a smooth short coat. The breed is known for its noble, graceful appearance and reserved temperament. Sloughis are independent, gentle, loyal, intelligent, and reserved. They have a high energy level (4/5) and moderate trainability (3/5). Grooming needs are low (1/5), and shedding is minimal (2/5). They are moderately suitable with children (3/5) and other dogs (3/5), but less suited to apartment living (2/5). Estimated adult weight ranges from 23 to 32 kg for both sexes, height from 66 to 74 cm, and lifespan from 12 to 15 years. Recognition status varies by registry.
Quick facts
Sloughi at a glance
Sizelarge
Breed groupHound
OriginNorth Africa
Lifespan12–15 years
Male weight23–32 kilogram
Female weight23–32 kilogram
Male height66–74 centimetre
Female height66–74 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Sloughi is an ancient sighthound breed developed by Berber and Bedouin tribes in North Africa. It was bred for hunting desert game such as gazelle, hare, fox, and jackal over vast distances, prized for its speed, endurance, and graceful gait in harsh desert conditions. The breed's history is deeply tied to the nomadic cultures of the region, where it served as a valued hunting companion. Recognition of the Sloughi varies by registry; for example, it is recognized by the FCI and AKC, but other registries may have different statuses. The breed's exact origins are not precisely documented, but it is considered one of the oldest sighthound types from North Africa.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
23–32 kilogramAdult weight66–74 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesShortCoat colorsPendingRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Independentgentleloyalintelligentreserved
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Higher daily exercise demand
Moderate compared with other breeds
Lower coat-maintenance demand
Lower shedding tendency
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Sloughi-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
- Commonly described as loyal.Supported by temperaments.loyal: true
Potential challenges
- Higher daily exercise and enrichment needs may not suit every household.Supported by energyScore: 4
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Growth chart
Sloughi puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight23–32 kilogramAdult female weight23–32 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of a Sloughi?
The Sloughi is a large breed. Estimated adult weight ranges from 23 to 32 kg for both males and females. Estimated adult height ranges from 66 to 74 cm. Estimated lifespan is 12 to 15 years. These are modelled estimates and may vary.
What is the Sloughi's temperament like?
The Sloughi is described as independent, gentle, loyal, intelligent, and reserved. Individual dogs may vary, and not every Sloughi will display all these traits consistently.
How much exercise does a Sloughi need?
The Sloughi has a high energy level (rated 4 out of 5), indicating it requires substantial daily exercise. As a sighthound bred for endurance hunting, it likely needs opportunities to run in a safe, enclosed area.
What are the grooming requirements for a Sloughi?
Grooming needs are low (rated 1 out of 5) due to its short coat. Shedding is also low (rated 2 out of 5). Occasional brushing and bathing as needed should suffice.
Is a Sloughi suitable for apartment living?
The Sloughi has a low apartment suitability rating (2 out of 5), suggesting it is not ideal for small spaces. It likely does best in a home with a yard where it can exercise.
How does the Sloughi get along with children and other dogs?
The Sloughi has moderate child suitability (3 out of 5) and moderate dog compatibility (3 out of 5). Individual temperament varies, so early socialization and supervision are recommended.
Where does the Sloughi originate from?
The Sloughi originates from North Africa. It was developed by Berber and Bedouin tribes for hunting desert game over long distances.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.