Sloughi Health Issues & Care Guide

Comprehensive health guide covering common conditions, genetic testing, preventive care, and veterinary recommendations for Sloughis.

Health Overview

Like all breeds, the Sloughi has specific health considerations. Relatively healthy with few breed-specific issues, though PRA testing is recommended and veterinarians should use sighthound-appropriate protocols..

Health testing of breeding dogs is the single most impactful step in reducing inherited conditions. Owners play their part through regular vet visits, quality nutrition, weight management, and dental care.

Common Health Conditions

ConditionFrequencySeverityTreatable
Progressive Retinal Atrophy Occasional Serious Not Treatable
Anesthesia Sensitivity Common Serious Manageable
Autoimmune Disorders Occasional Moderate Manageable
Addisons Disease Rare Serious Manageable

Progressive Retinal Atrophy

Genetic retinal degeneration that leads to blindness.

Anesthesia Sensitivity

Sighthound physiology requires modified protocols.

Autoimmune Disorders

Various autoimmune conditions can affect the breed.

Addisons Disease

Underactive adrenal glands requiring lifelong hormone replacement.

Recommended Health Tests

Before buying a Sloughi ($1500–$2500), verify these health tests on both parents:

  • Hip and elbow radiographs submitted to OFA or PennHIP
  • Eye exam by a board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist
  • Thyroid function testing
  • Comprehensive DNA panel for Sloughi-specific mutations including Progressive Retinal Atrophy screening

All results should be verifiable through OFA's public database. Relatively healthy with few breed-specific issues, though PRA testing is recommended and veterinarians should use sighthound-appropriate protocols..

Preventive Care Schedule

Preventive care timeline for Sloughis (budget $407–888/year):

  • Puppy phase (0-12 months): Core vaccines (8, 12, 16 weeks), deworming, flea/tick prevention, discuss spay/neuter timing for this large-sized breed
  • Adult phase (1-10 years): Annual exam, vaccine boosters, heartworm/flea/tick prevention, yearly dental cleaning
  • Senior phase (10+ years): Biannual exams, senior blood panel, urinalysis, Progressive Retinal Atrophy screening, joint assessment

Life Stage Health Guide

Each stage of a Sloughi's 12–16 year life brings different needs:

  • Puppyhood (0-12 months): Critical socialization, structured feeding to support growth, large-breed puppy food to control growth rate
  • Adolescence (1-2 years): Increased independence, reaching mature weight of 35–50 lbs, physical maturation of their short and smooth coat
  • Adulthood (2-10 years): Stable temperament, 60+ minutes daily exercise, routine veterinary care
  • Senior years (10+): Gradual activity reduction, dietary adjustments, screening for Progressive Retinal Atrophy and age-related conditions

Insurance Recommendation

Pet insurance makes sense for Sloughi owners given the breed's susceptibility to Progressive Retinal Atrophy and Anesthesia Sensitivity. Monthly premiums average $38–$86 depending on coverage level and deductible. Enroll as a puppy for the broadest coverage.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Sloughi is predisposed to Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Anesthesia Sensitivity, Autoimmune Disorders, and other conditions. Relatively healthy with few breed-specific issues, though PRA testing is recommended and veterinarians should use sighthound-appropriate protocols..
A Sloughi vet schedule: puppy vaccinations at 8, 12, and 16 weeks; annual wellness exams through age 10; then twice-yearly senior checkups. This breed's health profile–including risk for Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Anesthesia Sensitivity–means proactive screening pays off. Budget $407–888/year for routine veterinary care.
Given the Sloughi's predisposition to Progressive Retinal Atrophy and Anesthesia Sensitivity, pet insurance is worth considering. Plans cost $38–$86/month and can cover 70–90% of eligible vet costs.
Reputable Sloughi breeders should perform hip/elbow evaluations (OFA or PennHIP), eye exams (CERF/OFA), thyroid testing, and breed-specific DNA panels. Given the Sloughi's risk for Progressive Retinal Atrophy, targeted screening for this condition is essential. All results should be verifiable through OFA's database.
Relatively healthy with few breed-specific issues, though PRA testing is recommended and veterinarians should use sighthound-appropriate protocols.. Choosing a breeder who health-tests their dogs gives your puppy the best start. Regular vet care and a healthy lifestyle maintain that advantage throughout life.