How to Identify a Sloughi

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Last Updated: March 29, 2021

The Sloughi is a sighthound assigned to the hound group.^{[1]
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Go to source} Also called the Arabian Greyhound, Sloughis are one of three sighthounds originating in Africa, the other two being the Azawakh and the Saluki.^{[2]
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Go to source} Thus, Sloughis share much in common with other dogs, particularly sighthounds; however, they can be distinguished by recognizing their key traits. This wikiHow will help you identify a Sloughi by knowing the breed's unique features.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Recognizing the Structure

Sloughis are medium to large in size. They weigh between 45–70 pounds (20–32 kg), males having a height of 26–29 inches (66–74 cm) and females standing at 24–27 inches (61–69 cm).^{[3]
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A Sloughi's head starts broad and flat but tapers to the dog's nose, forming a lengthy wedge shape. Overall, the head appears sturdy, and the stop is hardly noticeable.^{[4]
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The eyes of a Sloughi may resemble either almonds or ovals in shape and are a large size. They are dark, being either a brown or amber color, and have pigmented rims. The expression given by the eyes is distinct to the dog and appears melancholy.^{[5]
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Sloughis have ears that drop and hang by the dog's head and are a medium size. Though they seem to resemble triangles, they have rounded tips.^{[6]
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A Sloughi's muzzle continues the wedge shape of the head. It is long, taking up nearly half of the overall head size. The nose is black in color and points slightly downward, and the lips may also be black or dark brown. The strong jaws and thin lips conceal the dog's scissors or level bite and make the corner of the mouth only barely visible.^{[7]
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The paws of a Sloughi are uniquely shaped like a lean oval that has been elongated, somewhat resembling a hare foot. The nails may be solid black or possibly pigmented another color. Two of the middle toes are of a greater length than the other toes. The dog's front dewclaws may be removed, and they have no back dewclaws.^{[8]
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A Sloughi's tail is thin and of good length to be lowered to the hocks. It is usually carried no higher than at the back level and low while curving upward when the dog is at rest but possibly above the back level when the dog is excited.^{[9]
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Sloughis are strong, robust, and sturdy but a bit bony in structure. They have a slightly arched neck, long shoulders, a chest that isn't too wide, flat ribs, a smoothly curved underline, a horizontal topline, and strong legs. Their gait is designed to cover much ground, being long, supple, and effortless.^{[10]
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Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Looking at the Coat

A Sloughi's coat is smooth and is finely textured. The hair is very short and is drawn tightly to the skin.^{[11]
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2
Check the coat color. The coat of a Sloughi ranges from a light cream or sand color to a reddish fawn or mahogany. It may also include brindle patterns or black markings, with common spots for black markings being on the ears, on the mantle, or as an overlay or facial mask. There may be a small or medium amount of white on the toes or chest.^{[12]
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- Though a Sloughi may be seen in any combination of colors and markings described above, two of the most commonly seen are the sandy cream with a black mask and the sandy cream with brindle.^{[13]
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Sloughis' coats require only a small amount of maintenance. Weekly brushing and occasional bathing will typically suffice for the infrequently shedding coat.^{[14]
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The American Kennel Club (AKC) is a purebred dog pedigree registry in the United States. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show.

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Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Checking Temperament

Though Sloughis do not need as much exercise as some other breeds, they are still active dogs. They enjoy galloping outside, so any yards need to be securely fenced.^{[15]
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Did you know? Sloughis are classified as sighthounds but can also make great scenthounds.^{[16]
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The American Kennel Club (AKC) is a purebred dog pedigree registry in the United States. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show.

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2
Notice sensitivity. Sloughis are rather sensitive dogs and react to their home's environment. Because of this, they may act aloof toward strangers or withdraw from interaction, especially if not properly socialized.^{[17]
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- Sloughis also seem to pick one member of their family to bond with.^{[18]
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Most sighthounds are fairly independent-minded, and the Sloughi is no exception. They need consistent but gentle training to balance their independence and sensitivity.^{[19]
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Hounds typically have strong hunting instincts. Because of this, a Sloughi may be tempted to chase after other animals. Sloughis need to be supervised around other pets or animals to prevent potential injuries.^{[20]
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Overall, Sloughis are an intelligent and alert breed. They always survey the area they enter and react well to proper training.^{[21]
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