Sloughi

Characteristics

About the Sloughi

An ancient sighthound from the Maghreb region of North Africa, the Sloughi has been the prized hunting companion of Berber and Bedouin peoples for centuries.. As of 2026, they hold the #159 position in the American Kennel Club's popularity rankings.

Standing 24 to 29 inches tall and weighing 35 to 50 pounds, the Sloughi is a large-sized dog. Often confused with the Saluki but genetically distinct; the Sloughi is smooth-coated only and has a more melancholic, sensitive expression. They are well-suited to owners who can provide the exercise, training, and companionship this breed thrives on.

Primarily a companion and lure coursing dog; in North Africa they are still used for traditional coursing, though this practice is declining..

History

An ancient sighthound from the Maghreb region of North Africa, the Sloughi has been the prized hunting companion of Berber and Bedouin peoples for centuries.. First imported to the United States in 1973 and recognized by the AKC in 2016; the breed remains extremely rare outside North Africa and Europe..

Primarily a companion and lure coursing dog; in North Africa they are still used for traditional coursing, though this practice is declining..

Common Health Issues

Complete health guide →

Similar Breeds

Is the Sloughi Right for You?

Choosing the right dog breed is one of the most important decisions a future owner can make. The Sloughi is a large-sized breed belonging to the Hound group, which shapes much of its daily behavior and needs. Here is an honest assessment based on key traits to help you decide if this breed fits your lifestyle.

Energy and exercise: The Sloughi has moderate energy levels, needing around 30–45 minutes of daily exercise. A combination of walks and play sessions will keep this breed content. They adapt reasonably well to different activity levels without becoming hyperactive or overly lethargic.

Living space: The Sloughi can live in an apartment with some effort, though a home with a yard is preferable. They score 3/5 for apartment friendliness, meaning they need intentional daily outings to compensate for limited indoor space.

Children and family: The Sloughi rates 3/5 with children - acceptable but not exceptional. They do well with older children who understand how to interact respectfully with dogs. Close supervision with toddlers and young children is important, and teaching both the child and dog appropriate boundaries is essential.

Grooming commitment: The Sloughi is relatively low-maintenance in grooming with a rating of 1/5. Weekly brushing and occasional baths are typically sufficient. This makes the breed a good choice for owners who prefer minimal grooming routines, with costs around $36–63/month.

Ownership Cost Summary

Before bringing a Sloughi home, it is critical to understand the full financial commitment over their 12–16 year lifespan. The initial purchase price of $1500–$2500 is only the beginning.

The first year is the most expensive, totaling approximately $5,184. This includes the purchase price, initial veterinary visits, vaccinations, spay/neuter surgery, supplies (crate, bed, bowls, leash), and early training classes. Many owners underestimate this initial outlay and find themselves financially stressed within the first few months.

Ongoing monthly costs average $144, broken down as follows: food ($55–85/mo), grooming ($36–63/mo), insurance ($54–90/mo), with annual costs for veterinary care ($407–888/yr) and supplies ($242–594/yr). As a large breed, the Sloughi costs more for food, medication dosing, and larger equipment than smaller dogs.

Over a full 12–16 year lifespan, total ownership costs typically reach $15,000–$30,000+ depending on health, not including emergency veterinary care which can add $2,000–$10,000 over the dog's lifetime. Pet insurance at $54–90/month is strongly recommended to manage unexpected health expenses.

Hidden costs often overlooked: Many prospective Sloughi owners fail to budget for training classes ($150–$500 for basic obedience), boarding or pet sitting during vacations ($30–$75/night), dog-proofing the home ($100–$300), replacement of chewed items during puppyhood, and potential property damage. Additionally, renters may face pet deposits ($200–$500) and monthly pet rent ($25–$75). Factor these real-world costs into your decision to ensure the Sloughi fits your financial situation comfortably without requiring sacrifices in the quality of care you can provide.

Breed Traits Explained

The Sloughi belongs to the Hound group, which historically means these dogs were bred to hunt using keen eyesight or an exceptional sense of smell. Hound breeds can be independent-minded and may follow a scent or sight rather than listening to commands. They require patience in training and secure containment to prevent them from wandering.

With a family friendliness score of 3/5, intelligence at 4/5, and shedding rated 1/5, the Sloughi presents a specific profile that works best for owners who understand and appreciate these characteristics. Their exercise needs (3/5) and barking tendency (1/5) should factor heavily into your decision, especially if you live in close proximity to neighbors or have limited outdoor space.

Intelligence and engagement: With intelligence rated 4/5, the Sloughi is a quick learner that thrives on mental challenges. This high intelligence means they need puzzle toys, training sessions, and varied activities to prevent boredom. An under-stimulated Sloughi may develop unwanted behaviors like excessive barking, chewing, or escape attempts. The upside is that they pick up new commands quickly and excel in activities like obedience, agility, or nosework.

Shedding and home cleanliness: The Sloughi's low shedding (1/5) makes them easier to maintain in a clean home. Regular brushing still helps remove dead coat and promote skin health.

Sloughi Quick Decision Guide

Making an informed decision about the Sloughi requires weighing all factors together. Here is a consolidated assessment to help you decide confidently whether this breed matches your situation.

You will love the Sloughi if: You maintain moderate daily routines with regular walks and occasional adventures, can provide consistent training and appropriate supervision with visitors, have adequate space with outdoor access, and prefer lower-maintenance coat care. The Sloughi's hound heritage brings specific qualities that dedicated owners find deeply rewarding.

Consider a different breed if: You need a dog for extreme athletic activities, , or if your living situation cannot accommodate a large breed comfortably. Being honest about these factors prevents rehoming situations that are stressful for both dog and owner.

Next steps: If the Sloughi seems like a good match, explore our detailed sub-pages on lifespan, cost, temperament, and health for deeper information. Connect with Sloughi owners through breed clubs and online communities to hear firsthand experiences. If possible, spend time with Sloughis before committing - attending dog shows, visiting breed-specific meetups, or fostering through a rescue organization. Use our Puppy Weight Calculator and Dog Age Calculator for practical planning, and review our expert guides for training, nutrition, and health care advice tailored to all breeds and life stages.