Arabian Greyhound
Breed Description

The Sloughi is known by several names across different regions and cultures. The most common alternate name is Arabian Greyhound, which reflects the breed's Middle Eastern associations and physical resemblance to the Greyhound. In its native North Africa, the breed may be called Sloughi Moghrebi, emphasizing its Maghreb heritage. Some enthusiasts use the term Berber Greyhound, acknowledging the indigenous Berber peoples who developed and preserved this noble hound.

The name Sloughi itself derives from the Arabic word for sighthound or gazehound. Major kennel clubs recognize this breed under its official designation of Sloughi. The Fédération Cynologique Internationale registers it as Sloughi with the breed standard number 188. The American Kennel Club, United Kennel Club, and The Kennel Club in the United Kingdom all use Sloughi as the official registered name. The Canadian Kennel Club follows the same convention.

Regional variations in pronunciation exist, though the spelling remains consistent across international registries. The breed should not be confused with the Saluki, another ancient sighthound from the Middle East, despite both breeds sharing similar origins and hunting traditions. While both are sometimes referred to as Arabian hounds, they represent distinct breeds with different physical characteristics and breed standards.

The Sloughi has achieved recognition from all major international kennel clubs, though it remains a relatively rare breed outside its native North Africa. The American Kennel Club formally recognized the Sloughi in 2016, classifying it within the Hound Group. Visit the AKC website at https://www.akc.org for detailed breed standard information and to locate AKC-registered breeders. The United Kennel Club also recognizes the Sloughi within its Sighthound and Pariah Group, maintaining separate breed standards available at https://www.ukcdogs.com.

The Fédération Cynologique Internationale has long recognized the Sloughi, assigning it to Group 10, Section 3 (Short-haired Sighthounds). The FCI breed standard serves as the foundation for most international standards and emphasizes the breed's North African heritage and functional characteristics. Access the complete FCI standard at https://www.fci.be. The Kennel Club in the United Kingdom places the Sloughi in the Hound Group, with comprehensive breed information available at https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk. The Canadian Kennel Club similarly recognizes the breed within the Hound Group, as detailed at https://www.ckc.ca.

The American Sloughi Association serves as the national breed club in the United States, providing education about the breed, maintaining breeder directories, and organizing specialty shows. The organization works closely with the AKC to preserve breed type and promote responsible ownership. European countries with significant Sloughi populations maintain their own national breed clubs, particularly in France, Germany, and the Netherlands, where the breed has established dedicated followings.

Breed standards across all major registries emphasize the Sloughi's elegant yet robust construction, designed for endurance hunting in harsh desert conditions. Key breed characteristics include a rectangular body outline, lean musculature, moderate bone structure, and a distinctive noble expression. The standards specify acceptable color variations, with preference given to sandy tones ranging from light cream to deep mahogany red. Brindle patterns and black masks are acceptable, though excessive white markings typically constitute faults. Show classifications place the Sloughi in sighthound competitions, where it competes based on conformation to breed standard rather than field trials, though the breed retains strong coursing instincts suitable for lure coursing events.

The Sloughi presents a picture of understated elegance combined with functional athleticism. This medium to large sighthound stands between 24 to 29 inches at the shoulder, with males typically measuring 26 to 29 inches and females ranging from 24 to 27 inches. Despite their substantial height, these dogs maintain a lean build, with males weighing approximately 45 to 50 pounds and females between 35 to 45 pounds. The overall impression should be one of a graceful, moderately built dog capable of sustained speed and endurance across difficult terrain.

The head exhibits refined nobility without exaggeration. The skull appears relatively flat when viewed from above, tapering gradually toward the muzzle. The stop is barely perceptible, creating an almost continuous line from skull to nose tip. The muzzle itself equals approximately the same length as the skull, maintaining harmonious proportions. The nose is black or brown depending on coat color, with well-opened nostrils suited for efficient breathing during extended pursuits. The jaws close in a perfect scissors bite with strong, healthy teeth.

Eyes are among the Sloughi's most distinctive features, presenting a slightly sad or melancholic expression that endears the breed to many enthusiasts. Large, dark, and almond-shaped, the eyes sit well within the skull, protected from sun and wind. Eye color ranges from dark amber to dark brown, harmonizing with coat color. The expression conveys intelligence, dignity, and gentle sensitivity. The ears are of medium size, triangular in shape, and hang close to the head with slightly rounded tips. They sit high on the skull and remain mobile, turning toward sounds of interest without breaking the refined head outline.

The neck is long, elegant, and muscular, rising from well-laid shoulders. It displays a slight arch along the topline, contributing to the breed's proud carriage. The neck flows smoothly into pronounced withers and a level topline that extends to a gently sloping croup. The chest appears deep but not overly broad, reaching approximately to the elbow level. The ribcage shows good spring, providing adequate lung capacity while maintaining the lean silhouette characteristic of desert-dwelling sighthounds. The underline displays a distinct tuck-up at the abdomen, creating the classic greyhound-type profile.

Forequarters demonstrate excellent angulation for ground-covering movement. The shoulders lay back at approximately 45 degrees, creating efficient stride length. The upper arm is long and muscular, connecting to straight, fine-boned forelegs. Elbows sit close to the body without restriction. The pasterns show slight flexibility, absorbing shock during high-speed running. Front feet are hare-like in shape with well-arched toes and tough pads suited for rocky terrain.

Hindquarters provide the power for the Sloughi's impressive acceleration and sustained speed. The upper thigh is long and well-muscled, connecting to a clearly defined stifle with good angulation. The second thigh shows visible development, leading to low-set hocks. From hock to ground, the rear pasterns stand nearly vertical, creating efficient drive. Rear feet match the front in structure, maintaining the hare-foot shape with strong, tight toes.

The tail represents one of the breed's signature features. Long and thin, it reaches at least to the hock joint when let down, with the last third forming a gentle upward curve. The tail carries low at rest but may rise to back level during movement, never curling over the back or carried between the legs. A tuft of longer hair at the tip adds to the elegant appearance.

The coat is short, dense, and fine throughout, lying smooth and flat against the body. No longer hair appears on the ears, body, or legs, distinguishing the Sloughi from the feathered Saluki. This minimal coat suits the breed's North African origins, providing sun protection while allowing heat dissipation. Acceptable colors include all shades of sand from light cream to mahogany red, with or without black masking on the face and ears. Brindle patterns may overlay the base color. Small white markings on the chest or toes are permissible but not preferred. The skin appears fine and supple, fitting closely without loose folds.

Sexual dimorphism is evident in the breed, with males displaying more substantial bone and musculature than females while both sexes maintain the essential lean sighthound type. Males project a masculine appearance without coarseness, while females exhibit refinement without appearing fragile. Movement at the trot should demonstrate effortless grace with long, ground-covering strides. At full gallop, the Sloughi displays the double-suspension gait typical of coursing hounds, with moments when all four feet leave the ground simultaneously.

The Sloughi stands among the most ancient of canine breeds, with origins stretching back thousands of years to the mountainous and desert regions of North Africa. Archaeological evidence suggests sighthound-type dogs existed in the Maghreb region including modern-day Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, and Libya as far back as 7000 BCE. The breed developed primarily among the Berber peoples, the indigenous inhabitants of North Africa, who valued these dogs as essential hunting partners and symbols of prestige.

Historical depictions of Sloughi-type dogs appear in ancient North African art, including pottery fragments and rock carvings throughout the Sahara region. These early images show dogs with the characteristic lean build, long legs, and dropped ears consistent with modern breed type. The dogs served crucial roles in nomadic Berber culture, hunting gazelle, hare, fox, and jackal across harsh terrain where other hunting methods proved ineffective. Berber families treated these hounds with great respect, often allowing them to sleep within family tents and share food from communal dishes.

The breed's name derives from Arabic language roots, with Sloughi roughly translating to swift or fleet-footed. Throughout the medieval period, ownership of quality Sloughis remained largely confined to noble families and tribal leaders, as these dogs represented significant wealth and status. The selective breeding practices of nomadic peoples focused on functional characteristics such as speed, endurance, keen eyesight, and ability to withstand extreme temperatures. This practical selection created a breed perfectly adapted to North African climates and hunting conditions.

European contact with the Sloughi increased during the colonial period of the 19th and early 20th centuries, when French military officers and administrators stationed in North Africa encountered the breed. Some officers attempted to export Sloughis to France, though few breeding programs succeeded during this early period. The breed remained relatively unknown outside North Africa until the mid-20th century, when dedicated enthusiasts in Europe began systematic breeding efforts.

French cynologists deserve credit for formalizing the first breed standard in 1925, working to distinguish the Sloughi from the more widely known Saluki. This distinction proved important as many Europeans initially confused all Middle Eastern and North African sighthounds as variants of the same type. The Fédération Cynologique Internationale officially recognized the Sloughi in 1934, establishing Morocco as the country of origin and France as the country of development due to French efforts in preservation and standardization.

Political upheaval in North Africa during the mid-20th century, including wars of independence and internal conflicts, threatened the breed's survival in its homeland. Many traditional breeding programs disappeared, and knowledge of bloodlines became fragmented. European breeders worked to preserve genetic diversity, importing new stock when possible and carefully managing the limited gene pool. The breed's population in Europe, particularly France, Germany, and the Netherlands, gradually increased through the efforts of dedicated preservationists.

The Sloughi arrived in the United States during the 1970s and 1980s, though imports remained sporadic and numbers stayed extremely low. The American Sloughi Association formed in 1989 to promote the breed and work toward AKC recognition. After decades of documentation and breed development, the AKC admitted the Sloughi to its Foundation Stock Service in 1997, allowing the breed to participate in performance events and companion programs. Full recognition in the Hound Group finally came in 2016, making the Sloughi eligible for championship competition.

Despite international recognition, the Sloughi remains one of the rarest dog breeds worldwide. Annual registration numbers stay in the hundreds rather than thousands, even in countries with established breeding populations. Conservation efforts continue in North Africa, where some organizations work to preserve traditional breeding programs and prevent the breed's extinction in its native homeland. Modern Sloughis maintain the functional hunting ability of their ancestors, though most now serve as cherished companions rather than working hunting dogs. The breed's rarity ensures that each Sloughi carries particular value for genetic diversity and cultural heritage preservation.

The Sloughi exhibits a temperament often described as reserved, dignified, and intensely loyal to family members. Unlike many gregarious sporting breeds that welcome all strangers enthusiastically, the Sloughi maintains an aloof demeanor with unfamiliar people. This natural reserve should not be mistaken for shyness or fearfulness but rather reflects the breed's selective bonding patterns. Sloughis typically choose their people carefully, forming profound attachments to household members while remaining politely indifferent to outsiders. This trait traces directly to the breed's heritage among nomadic peoples, where dogs needed to distinguish between family and strangers for security purposes.

Within the family unit, Sloughis demonstrate remarkable sensitivity and emotional depth. They attune themselves to household rhythms and individual moods, often seeking quiet companionship rather than boisterous interaction. Many owners describe their Sloughis as emotionally intelligent, capable of reading human body language and responding appropriately to subtle cues. This sensitivity cuts both ways, as Sloughis can be deeply affected by harsh treatment or chaotic household environments. Raised voices, physical corrections, or stressful situations may cause these dogs to withdraw or become anxious, making positive reinforcement training methods essential.

The breed displays moderate energy levels that fluctuate between explosive outdoor activity and serene indoor relaxation. Given adequate exercise, Sloughis transform into couch companions, spending hours lounging comfortably on soft surfaces. They often seek elevated resting spots such as sofas or beds, a behavior likely related to their desert origins where elevation provided cooler resting places and better vantage points. However, insufficient physical and mental stimulation can lead to restlessness, destructive behavior, or escape attempts as the hunting instinct seeks outlets.

Intelligence ranks high among Sloughi characteristics, though this intelligence manifests differently than in biddable working breeds. Sloughis think independently, a necessity for dogs historically required to hunt at distance from handlers. They excel at problem-solving and can figure out complex tasks when motivated, but they question commands that seem pointless or repetitive. This independent thinking sometimes frustrates owners accustomed to breeds that eagerly perform tricks or obedience routines. Successful Sloughi owners embrace the breed's autonomous nature and find creative ways to make training mutually rewarding rather than purely hierarchical.

Social behavior with other dogs generally proves positive, particularly when Sloughis are properly socialized during puppyhood. Many Sloughis prefer living with canine companions, enjoying the opportunity to play and rest with housemates. However, their high prey drive means that rough play with unfamiliar dogs requires supervision, as the Sloughi's chase instinct can activate if other dogs run erratically. Some Sloughis, particularly intact males, may display same-sex aggression, though this varies considerably by individual.

The hunting heritage creates significant challenges for multi-species households. Sloughis possess extraordinarily high prey drive, instantly triggered by the sight of small animals in motion. Cats, rabbits, ferrets, and other small pets face genuine danger unless the Sloughi has been raised with them from puppyhood and receives consistent management. Even Sloughis living peacefully with household cats may chase unfamiliar cats outdoors, demonstrating the distinction these dogs make between family members and prey animals. Owners must accept this fundamental breed characteristic and manage their dogs accordingly through secure fencing, leash discipline, and realistic expectations.

Sloughis typically respond well to children within their own families, particularly when children demonstrate respect for the dog's space and handle interactions gently. The breed's calm demeanor and patient nature suit households with older, well-behaved children. However, the Sloughi's sensitivity to rough handling and chaotic activity makes them less ideal for homes with very young children who might grab ears, ride on backs, or shriek unpredictably. Proper supervision ensures positive relationships between Sloughis and all family members, regardless of age.

Watchdog instincts appear moderate in most Sloughis. While they notice unusual activities and may alert owners to strangers approaching the property, they rarely bark excessively or display aggressive protective behaviors. Their alertness serves more as early warning than active guarding, consistent with the breed's historical role of detection rather than protection. Most Sloughis will retreat from confrontation rather than escalate, making them unsuitable for guard dog roles.

The Sloughi adapts best to homes where at least one family member maintains a relatively calm, consistent presence. These dogs thrive with owners who appreciate quiet companionship and understand the breed's need for both vigorous exercise and peaceful downtime. Families with older children who respect canine body language make excellent Sloughi homes, as do adult-only households seeking a devoted companion with moderate indoor exercise requirements. First-time dog owners can succeed with Sloughis if they commit to understanding sighthound nature and resist expectations based on more biddable breeds.

Living space requirements prove surprisingly flexible for such a large breed. While Sloughis certainly enjoy spacious homes with room to stretch out, they can adapt to apartment living provided their exercise needs are met consistently. The breed's quiet nature and low tendency to bark make them considerate neighbors in multi-unit dwellings. However, apartment residents must commit to multiple daily outings for exercise and elimination, as Sloughis cannot expend their energy indoors safely. Access to stairs or elevators becomes a practical consideration, particularly for older Sloughis or in emergency situations requiring quick veterinary transport.

Secure fencing represents an absolute requirement for Sloughi ownership. These dogs can reach speeds exceeding 35 miles per hour in seconds, and their prey drive compels them to chase any small animal that catches their eye. A running Sloughi focuses entirely on the chase, oblivious to traffic, property boundaries, or calls to return. Fence height must be at least six feet, as athletic Sloughis can easily clear four-foot barriers. The fence should have no gaps at ground level, as some Sloughis will dig under insufficient barriers. Privacy fencing works better than chain link, preventing the visual stimulation of passing animals that might trigger escape attempts.

Yard size matters less than fence quality. A small, securely fenced yard serves Sloughi needs better than acres of unfenced property. Some owners successfully use invisible electronic fencing, though this requires extensive training and works best as a backup to physical barriers rather than a primary containment system. The breed's high pain tolerance means some Sloughis will run through electronic boundaries when sufficiently motivated by prey. For properties without adequate fencing, owners must commit to leashed exercise and controlled environments like fenced dog parks or secured training facilities.

Climate tolerance skews heavily toward warmth, unsurprising given the breed's North African heritage. Sloughis handle heat and sun remarkably well, requiring shade and water but otherwise comfortable in conditions that overwhelm many breeds. Cold weather presents greater challenges due to the minimal coat and low body fat. Winter climates require protective clothing for outdoor activities, with dog coats or sweaters necessary when temperatures drop below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Many Sloughis refuse to eliminate outdoors in cold weather without appropriate clothing, making this a practical necessity rather than a fashion choice. Indoor temperatures should remain comfortable, as Sloughis seeking warmth will monopolize heating vents, sunny spots, and soft bedding.

Separation tolerance varies among individual Sloughis but generally falls in the moderate range. These dogs form strong bonds with their people and prefer company to solitude, yet they don't typically develop the severe separation anxiety seen in some velcro breeds. Sloughis left alone for reasonable periods usually sleep peacefully rather than destructively protesting. However, inadequate exercise before absences or exceptionally long isolation periods may trigger problem behaviors like destructive chewing, escape attempts, or excessive vocalization. Crate training provides a safe management option, particularly for puppies and adolescents prone to mischief when unsupervised.

Multi-dog households often suit Sloughis well, as these dogs enjoy canine companionship and often play and rest together. A second dog can provide entertainment and reduce loneliness during owner absences. Many breeders recommend adopting Sloughis in pairs when circumstances permit, as the dogs genuinely benefit from constant canine company. Size matching matters less than play style compatibility, though Sloughis generally interact best with breeds of similar temperament and energy levels. The combination of a calm indoor demeanor and outdoor athleticism makes Sloughis surprisingly adaptable housemates.

Daily routines should include morning exercise, afternoon rest periods, evening activity, and nighttime relaxation. Sloughis appreciate predictability and settle more easily into households with consistent schedules. Feeding times, walk times, and bedtimes ideally occur at regular intervals. The breed's sensitivity to household stress means that chaotic or unpredictable environments may cause anxiety or behavioral issues. Calm, organized homes with clear routines allow Sloughis to relax and trust their environment, bringing out the best aspects of their gentle temperament.

Training a Sloughi requires patience, consistency, and acceptance of the breed's independent nature. These intelligent sighthounds learn quickly but question repetitive drills or commands that seem purposeless from their perspective. Traditional obedience training methods emphasizing strict hierarchies and harsh corrections fail miserably with Sloughis, often creating resistance, fear, or complete shutdown. Instead, positive reinforcement techniques using food rewards, play, and praise generate the best results, building cooperation through mutual respect rather than dominance.

Early socialization proves critical for Sloughi puppies. Exposure to various people, places, sounds, and situations between 8 and 16 weeks of age shapes adult temperament significantly. Well-socialized Sloughis display appropriate reserve with strangers rather than fearfulness or aggression. Puppy kindergarten classes provide valuable socialization opportunities while teaching basic commands in a structured environment. Owners should seek trainers familiar with sighthound temperaments, as generic training approaches often fail to account for the breed's sensitivity and independence.

Basic obedience commands like sit, down, stay, and come form the foundation of Sloughi training. However, reliability of recall commands remains forever limited by the breed's hunting instincts. A Sloughi focused on prey will not respond to calls, no matter how thorough the training. Responsible owners accept this limitation and never trust their Sloughis off-leash in unfenced areas, regardless of training accomplishments. The highest level of recall reliability achieved with Sloughis typically means the dog will return when no distractions are present, not that the dog can be reliably called away from moving prey.

Exercise requirements rank high for this athletic breed. Adult Sloughis need at least 60 to 90 minutes of physical activity daily, split between multiple sessions. A typical exercise program includes morning and evening walks of 30 minutes each, combined with opportunities for free running in secure areas. Weekend activities might involve longer hikes, visits to fenced dog parks, or participation in lure coursing events where Sloughis can safely pursue mechanical lures at full speed. Without adequate exercise, Sloughis become restless, potentially developing behavioral problems like excessive barking, destructive chewing, or escape attempts.

Leash walking presents unique challenges with Sloughis. Their powerful prey drive means squirrels, cats, or small dogs may trigger explosive pulling or lunging. Training loose-leash walking requires consistent practice using high-value treats and patience as the dog learns impulse control. Front-clip harnesses or head halters provide mechanical advantage for handlers struggling with leash reactivity. Many owners find that exercising Sloughis in quiet areas with fewer distractions simplifies leash training during the learning phase.

Mental stimulation matters as much as physical exercise for this intelligent breed. Puzzle toys, scent work, training sessions teaching new tricks, and food-dispensing toys engage Sloughi minds and prevent boredom. These dogs excel at problem-solving tasks and enjoy the mental challenge of figuring out how to access hidden treats or navigate obstacle courses. Interactive play sessions involving gentle games of chase or tug also provide mental engagement while strengthening the human-dog bond.

Lure coursing represents the ideal sport for Sloughis, allowing them to do what they were bred for in a controlled, safe environment. American Sighthound Field Association and AKC coursing events welcome Sloughis to chase mechanical lures across open fields, simulating the experience of pursuing live prey. Most Sloughis take to lure coursing instinctively, requiring little training beyond basic fitness conditioning. Participation in coursing provides intensive exercise, satisfies hunting instincts, and connects owners with the sighthound community. Many Sloughis also enjoy straight racing, though they typically cannot match the speed of Greyhounds or Whippets over short distances.

The breed's sensitivity demands particular attention to training tone and body language. Harsh verbal corrections or physical punishment damage the trust bond and often backfire, creating fearful or avoidant behaviors. Sloughis respond best to calm, quiet instruction delivered with clear expectations and immediate rewards for correct responses. Training sessions should remain short and positive, ending on success notes that build confidence. Most Sloughis will eagerly participate in training when it feels like a cooperative game rather than a dominance battle.

The Sloughi generally enjoys good health and longevity compared to many purebred dogs, with most individuals living 10 to 15 years when provided appropriate care. The breed benefits from a relatively small gene pool that has undergone natural selection for centuries, eliminating many genetic weaknesses through the harsh realities of desert survival. However, like all breeds, Sloughis face certain health concerns that prospective owners should understand. Responsible breeders screen for known hereditary conditions and work to improve overall breed health through careful selection of breeding stock.

Prospective Sloughi owners should work exclusively with reputable breeders who conduct health testing on breeding stock and provide documentation of clearances. Responsible breeders screen for progressive retinal atrophy through DNA testing, evaluate thyroid function, and maintain records of any health issues appearing in their lines. Puppy buyers should receive copies of parental health certifications and a thorough health guarantee. While no breeder can guarantee a puppy will never develop health problems, ethical breeding practices significantly reduce risks. Owners who provide appropriate nutrition, exercise, preventive care, and prompt attention to health concerns can expect their Sloughis to enjoy long, active lives as cherished family companions.

The Sloughi ranks among the lowest-maintenance breeds in terms of coat care, thanks to its short, smooth, fine-textured coat that requires minimal grooming effort. Weekly brushing with a soft bristle brush or grooming mitt removes loose hair and distributes natural skin oils, maintaining coat health and shine. During seasonal shedding periods in spring and fall, increasing brushing frequency to two or three times weekly helps control loose hair in the home. Unlike double-coated breeds that shed profusely, Sloughis shed moderately year-round with slight increases during seasonal transitions.

Bathing requirements remain minimal for this naturally clean breed. Most Sloughis need bathing only every 6 to 12 weeks unless they become particularly dirty from outdoor activities. Frequent bathing can strip natural oils from the skin, potentially causing dryness or irritation. When bathing is necessary, use mild dog shampoos formulated for sensitive skin. The thin coat dries quickly with toweling, though many Sloughis appreciate a sunny spot or warm room for complete drying, particularly in cool weather. Some owners use coat conditioning sprays between baths to maintain skin health and add shine.

Nail trimming should occur every 3 to 4 weeks to prevent overgrowth that can affect gait and cause discomfort. Sloughis with regular access to concrete or asphalt naturally wear down their nails to some degree, but most still require regular trimming. Dark nails common in the breed make it challenging to see the quick, so conservative trimming prevents painful cutting too short. Owners uncomfortable with nail trimming can seek assistance from veterinary staff or professional groomers. Some Sloughis tolerate nail grinding tools better than clippers, offering an alternative approach.

Ear care involves weekly inspection and cleaning as needed. The drop ears create an environment where moisture and debris can accumulate, potentially leading to infections if neglected. Healthy ears appear clean and pink without odor or discharge. Gentle cleaning with veterinary-approved ear cleanser on cotton balls maintains ear health. Never insert cotton swabs into the ear canal, as this can damage delicate structures or push debris deeper. Signs of ear problems including head shaking, scratching, redness, or foul odor warrant veterinary examination.

Dental hygiene represents one of the most important yet often neglected aspects of Sloughi care. Daily teeth brushing prevents tartar accumulation, gum disease, and associated health problems. Dog-specific toothpaste comes in appealing flavors that make teeth brushing more enjoyable for most dogs. Starting dental care during puppyhood establishes tooth brushing as a normal routine rather than a struggle. Professional dental cleanings under anesthesia may still be necessary periodically, particularly as dogs age, but daily home care significantly reduces frequency and severity of dental disease.

Paw care proves particularly important for active Sloughis participating in running and coursing activities. Regular inspection of pads for cuts, abrasions, or foreign objects prevents minor issues from becoming serious problems. Trimming hair between paw pads prevents matting and reduces debris collection. Some owners apply paw balm to protect and condition foot pads, particularly in extreme weather or on rough terrain. Winter conditions may require protective booties, as the thin coat means Sloughis dislike cold weather and ice-melting chemicals can irritate sensitive paws.

Eye care involves regular inspection for discharge, redness, or signs of irritation. The prominent eyes can accumulate tear staining in some individuals, which can be gently cleaned with warm water or specialized tear stain remover products. Any persistent discharge, squinting, or cloudiness requires veterinary evaluation, as eye problems can progress rapidly without treatment.

Professional grooming services prove unnecessary for Sloughis beyond occasional nail trimming for owners uncomfortable performing this task at home. The breed's simple coat requires no trimming, stripping, or elaborate styling. This low-maintenance aspect appeals to many owners seeking canine companionship without extensive grooming commitments. The money saved on professional grooming can be allocated toward quality veterinary care, training classes, or coursing event participation. Overall, Sloughi grooming represents a minimal time investment that strengthens the bond between owner and dog through regular gentle handling and inspection.

If you're looking to adopt an Arabian Greyhound, consider contacting these breed-specific rescue organizations:

"Don't Shop... Please Adopt" - There are many wonderful Arabian Greyhounds waiting for their forever homes.