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.
Affection Level
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Reserved but deeply devoted to family members; affection expressed quietly and selectively
Good with Children
Best with respectful older children who understand gentle interaction; sensitive to rough handling
Good with Other Dogs
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Generally sociable with other dogs; enjoys companionship of canine housemates
Good with Other Pets
Strong prey drive makes cohabitation with small pets challenging; cat relationships possible if raised together
Playfulness
Moderate playfulness; enjoys interactive games but maintains dignified demeanor
Energy Level
High energy outdoors with bursts of speed; calm and quiet indoors when exercised adequately
Trainability
Intelligent but independent; requires patient, positive training methods
Intelligence
Highly intelligent with excellent problem-solving abilities; thinks independently
Tendency to Bark
Very quiet breed; rarely vocalizes except when alerting to unusual activity
Amount of Shedding
Low to moderate shedding; minimal grooming required
Grooming Needs
Minimal grooming requirements; occasional brushing and bathing sufficient
Prey Drive
Very high prey drive; bred for hunting and will chase small animals instinctively