Arabic Chart - Sloughi
FCI Group
10• FCI 188
Size
Large
Origin Country
XX
Height
61-72 cm
Weight
20-27 kg
Lifespan
13-15 years
Temperament
Overview
The Arabic Chart, also known as Sloughi, is a breed that fascinates with its elegance and agility. Present in North Africa for centuries, it is a dog that perfectly combines the traits of an efficient hunter and a devoted companion. The Sloughi stands out with its long history, dating back to the 13th century. Berber tribes in Libya, Algeria, Tunisia, and Morocco bred this breed, appreciating its speed and ability to hunt large game. Egyptian aristocracy and Berber kings particularly valued these dogs for their exceptional skills.
Characteristic of the Sloughi is its slim yet muscular silhouette. It is an ideal sprinter with long, strong legs, a narrow waist, and an elegant head with a distinct expression. Its harmonious build is complemented by a long, slightly curled tail carried with grace. The coat of the Sloughi can be diverse - ranging from light sandy to red shades to fawn, and the short, smooth fur is extremely pleasant to the touch.
The temperament of this breed is as interesting as its appearance. Sloughi is a dog deeply devoted to its family, although it can be distant towards strangers. Its strong hunting instinct means that during walks, it may show intense interest in smaller animals. Despite its independent nature, the Sloughi is very emotionally sensitive and reacts to tensions within the family. Therefore, an appropriate approach to its training, consistent socialization, and building bonds are extremely important.
For a happy life, the Sloughi requires meeting its high exercise needs. It needs 2-3 hours of intense exercise daily, which can include free running, jogging with the owner, or long, engaging walks. Due to its significant energy and need for space, it is not suitable for living in small apartments without access to a yard for free running.
Grooming the Sloughi is relatively simple and low-maintenance. Its short coat requires regular brushing with a stiff brush or grooming glove to remove dirt and dead hair. Baths are only conducted when absolutely necessary to avoid irritating the dog's delicate skin. Due to skin sensitivity, it is advisable to avoid excessive use of shampoos that can dry out the skin and cause discomfort.
In summary, Sloughi combines elegance, independence, and emotional sensitivity. Owners must be ready to spend active time with the dog and provide it with proper socialization and consistent training. In return, the Sloughi will reward them with deep loyalty and love, creating a strong bond with its guardian that can last a lifetime.
The Sloughi is a dog with a very elegant and noble silhouette, attracting attention with its slenderness and harmonious body shape. Adult dogs reach a height at the withers of 66 to 72 cm, while females are slightly smaller, measuring from 61 to 68 cm. Their body length is slightly greater than their height, giving them a characteristic, elongated, and elegant appearance typical of sighthounds.
The head of the Sloughi is long and slender, with a clearly defined wedge-shaped muzzle. The eyes are large, dark, and have a gentle, nostalgic expression, which gives these dogs a unique, noble character. The ears are set high, drooping, and triangular, adding even more grace and emphasizing their oriental elegance.
The coat of the Sloughi is short, dense, and smooth, occurring in various shades:
- Light sandy
- Reddish
- Fawn
- Often with black markings or a mask
The tail is long, thin, and carried below the line of the back, which accentuates its elegant appearance. In motion, the Sloughi moves with extraordinary lightness and grace, demonstrating its athletic build. It is a true sprinting master, capable of reaching impressive speeds over long distances.
The behavior of the Sloughi is complex and fascinating. Although it is a dog that forms strong bonds with one chosen family member, it can be somewhat distant towards strangers. This trait does not indicate aggression, but rather a natural reserve and reticence typical of oriental breeds.
The Sloughi has a strong hunting instinct, which can make its behavior sometimes unpredictable, especially in the presence of smaller pets or wildlife. This breed is not known for excessive playfulness, preferring to spend quiet time in its corner, observing its surroundings with a watchful yet calm gaze.
The Sloughi is quiet and gentle at home, provided that its exercise needs are adequately met. It is a dog with high emotional intelligence, capable of sensing tensions within the family, which can significantly affect its well-being and behavior. For this reason, early socialization with other dogs and people is crucial for its mental health.
The Sloughi is not very loud, but it may bark warningly to alert about strangers or intruders. Owners should be aware of its tendency to escape, as its strong hunting instinct and high energy can lead to situations where the dog suddenly disappears in search of adventure. Spending time together with the Sloughi, regular training based on positive reinforcement, and proper socialization will help shape positive behaviors and contribute to its overall happiness.
Sloughi is generally a healthy dog breed, with an average lifespan of 13 to 15 years. Despite its healthy appearance and endurance, the Sloughi may be prone to several health issues that are typical for sighthound breeds.
Among the most common conditions that may affect the Sloughi are:
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
- Hypothyroidism
- Heart murmurs
- Sensitivity to anesthesia (common in sighthounds)
Due to its physical activity and tendency to run fast, the Sloughi is a breed that can suffer from muscle or joint injuries during intense exertion, which requires owners to be cautious and regularly monitor their pet's health.
It is also important for the Sloughi to be protected from extreme temperatures, as this breed originates from a warm desert climate. Although their coat naturally thickens in cooler days, Sloughis do not cope well in very cold climates and should be provided with appropriate shelter and protective clothing during frosts.
The care of a Sloughi is relatively easy and does not require a lot of time or effort. Its short, dense coat makes it a dog with a low shedding level. Owners should regularly brush their pet at least once a week to remove dirt and dead hair. Using a stiff brush or a special grooming glove will help thoroughly clean the coat and stimulate the skin.
Baths should only be given when necessary, for example, when the dog is visibly dirty. Too frequent bathing can lead to dry skin, which is particularly detrimental for the Sloughi, as it has naturally sensitive and delicate skin.
Additionally, it is worth regularly checking:
- Ears - clean gently once a week
- Teeth - brush 2-3 times a week
- Nails - trim every 3-4 weeks
- Skin - monitor for irritations
Maintaining oral health is particularly important, as the Sloughi may be prone to dental diseases and tartar. It is also essential to keep the nails at an appropriate length by trimming them regularly to avoid discomfort while walking and running.
Sloughi is a dog that definitely needs a lot of exercise. As a hunting breed, the Sloughi has an innate need to run and hunt, which means it should be regularly exercised outdoors in safe conditions. Owners should provide their Sloughi with at least 2-3 hours of intense activity every day.
Ideal forms of activity include:
- Free running in a safe, fenced area
- Jogging with the owner
- Long, engaging walks
- Hiking in the woods and open areas
- Coursing training (chasing a lure)
Sloughi excels in open terrain where it can run long distances and reach full speed. This breed is not suitable for living in small apartments where there is not enough space for movement and activity.
Additionally, due to their strong hunting instinct, owners should be cautious during walks near smaller animals to avoid unpleasant situations related to chasing. A well-socialized Sloughi should also have regular opportunities for positive interactions with other dogs, which is essential for its mental and emotional health.
Training a Sloughi can be a challenge, but it is a key element in ensuring a harmonious life within the family. Due to their independent nature and strong, confident character, Sloughis can be difficult to train, especially if they are not properly motivated positively.
Owners should start training as early as possible, preferably during puppyhood, and maintain a consistent approach throughout the dog's life. Sloughis respond best to positive reinforcement, such as treats, praise, and play, while harsh punishment methods can lead to fear, resistance, and loss of trust.
Recommended training methods:
- Positive reinforcement with rewards
- Short, engaging training sessions
- Early socialization from puppy age
- Consistency and patience
- Avoiding harsh punishments and yelling
It is also worth noting that Sloughis have a highly developed emotional intelligence, meaning they can sense tension in their environment and respond to their owner's moods. Socialization with other dogs, people, and various situations is crucial for the healthy development of a Sloughi. Training should be conducted in a calm, positive environment so that the dog can thrive in an atmosphere of trust and safety.
A proper diet is key to the health and well-being of the Sloughi. This breed, due to its high physical activity and lean build, requires a balanced diet that provides all the essential nutrients.
Owners should choose high-quality foods that contain:
- A high content of animal protein (25-30%)
- A moderate amount of healthy fats (12-18%)
- Appropriate carbohydrates for energy
- Vitamins and minerals that support joints
It is important to ensure that the food is tailored to the dog's age, weight, and activity level. The Sloughi tends to maintain an appropriate, lean weight, but excess calories can lead to obesity, which is particularly harmful to this breed. Therefore, it is essential to control portion sizes and avoid overfeeding.
In addition to dry food, it is worth incorporating into the diet:
- Fresh fruits (apples, pears, berries)
- Vegetables (carrots, broccoli, pumpkin)
- Lean meat as a supplement
- Low-calorie training treats
Moreover, providing the Sloughi with constant access to fresh water is essential, especially on warm days and after intense physical activity. Regular feeding (2 meals a day for adult dogs) helps maintain stable energy levels.
Characteristic Traits
Pros
- Elegance and exceptional agility
- Strong hunting instinct
- Deep devotion to family
- Easy maintenance of short coat
- Low shedding level.
Cons
- Requires a lot of movement
- Independent and self-confident character
- Sensitivity to tensions in the family
- Strong chasing instinct.
Behavioral Ratings
Breed History
The history of the Sloughi dates back to the 13th century, when this breed was cultivated by Berber tribes in the regions of North Africa, including Libya, Algeria, Tunisia, and Morocco. It was regarded as an aristocratic dog, valued by the Egyptian aristocracy and Berber kings and leaders.
The Sloughi was used for hunting large desert game, including gazelles, wild boars, and hares, making it an indispensable companion for hunters. This breed was also known for its incredible speed, endurance, and agility, allowing it to effectively chase prey even in harsh desert conditions.
In Berber culture, the Sloughi was treated with the utmost respect:
- It slept in tents with its owners
- It was considered a family member
- It was protected from extreme conditions
- Its loyalty and courage were valued
The Sloughi did not arrive in Europe until the late 19th century, and it only reached the United States in 1973. Today, the Sloughi is a relatively rare breed, and its population is declining due to the loss of traditional habitats and changing hunting traditions. Due to its unique characteristics, the Sloughi is now valued as a companion dog, but it still requires an appropriate environment that allows it to fulfill its natural instincts and needs.
