Sloughi

In my own words

 

I am an ancient animal. I am a Sloughi. My breed dates back to the times of ancient Egyptians and since then African tribesman, who admired Sloughis as prized possessions. These days you could say that I am still a prized possession, as I am drawn from a terribly rare breed. You certainly don’t come across many Sloughis nowadays. We were originally bred as sight scent and sound dogs. It’s definitely stuck because my senses are second to none when it comes to canines. I’m a hunter with great stamina. I can hunt all through the day and well into the night, given the chance. Thankfully, I often get the chance. My owners are very outdoors minded meaning I get the stimulation I require. Think of it this way, my fellow Sloughi hunt gazelle and hyenas with Bedouin tribesmen.  So I need a lot to satisfy my hunting instincts.  Please don’t misunderstand me, I’m no savage beast. In fact, I love children and to feel like part of a family.

Information essential about the Sloughi

 

The Sloughi is a member of the hound group.

Size: Medium

The average height: Male: 26-28; Female: 24-27 inches

Popularity:

Breed History:

 

This breed is truly a living piece of history, revered by the Bedouin tribesmen, and as highly valued as an Arabian horse. In the days of the great Sheiks, the Sloughi was one of the most prized possessions, and you can imagine what happened if anyone should harm a Sloughi! They are as noble and proud as the Bedouin themselves, who decorate the Sloughi with talismans and amulets. Bedouin women have been known to nurse Sloughi puppies should the need arise. When a Bedouin goes visiting, his Sloughi is treated with the same respect as any honoured guest, and tribesmen will willingly give up their blanket for their Sloughi should they be cold. And when the Sloughi dies, the grief of the Bedouin is apparent and the hound is mourned with much dignity. There is evidence of the Sloughi dating back to the Ancient Egyptians, and indeed a mummified body of a Sloughi has been discovered in a tomb.

Character:

 

It is of a sensitive nature yet is an alert and intelligent hound. It is said that Sloughis have a mighty longing for moving and that is not easy to keep them in flats with families; however, a Sloughi does not need more exercise than other dogs of similar size. It loves variety, walking on the leash, romping in the countryside, and racing. A Sloughi is faithful to his owner and it needs him close by. Sloughis are easy to bring up and to train, if you know how to do it. Because the Sloughi is somewhat sensitive, its training should not be oppressive, and any punishment should be omitted. What it likes is a friendly confirmation of its behaviour.

Temperament:

 

The Sloughi is tall, elegant, and slender. They exude a noble, graceful, and aristocratic persona. Extremely athletic, this breed is capable of jumping great heights and is a swift runner. They are active, alert, highly intelligent, and possess a fastidious and gentle manner.

The Sloughi forms a strong and deep emotional attachment to their master and family. As a result, they do not change ownership easily. They are cautious, aloof, and wary with people they do not know. This breed is a reliable and dependable watchdog. The Sloughi is not recommended for the novice dog owner. They do best in a home with older considerate children and with household pets they have been raised with. They have a strong emotional sensitivity and do not do well if stressed or if there are changes in their routine. This breed requires a harmonious and peaceful home environment. The Sloughi does not do well if left alone for extended periods of time either indoors or outdoors, as they will become bored and destructive. They are not recommended for a two-career family.

Conformation:

 

The Sloughi is a medium sized, short-coated dog.

Colour:

 

The coat comes in such colours as light sand, mahogany red, red with black brindle, or red brindle. There are typically black or white markings.

Training:

Care:

 

The Sloughi requires occasional brushing with a firm bristle brush. Bathing or dry shampooing should be done only when necessary as they have very dry skin. They do not do well in cold climates. This breed is prone to progressive retinal atrophy and hemophilia. It is important to remember that the Sloughi is a sight-hound and will chase anything and everything that moves. With the capability to reach speeds of 37 mph this breed will become so focused on the object they are chasing that they quite quickly find themselves in perilous danger. This breed is an average shedder.

Health:

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