The Pet Atlas

Breed Dogs Hound

Sloughi

Desert sighthound with quiet sensitivity

At a glance

Basic requirements and commitment level

Daily requirements

Activity
High
Exercise
High
Mental stimulation
High
Trainability
Low
Vocality
Low
Health sensitivity
Low
Grooming
Low
Shedding
Low
Temperature sensitivity
High

Context & compatibility

Size
Large
Lifespan
12–15 years
Body weight
40–60 lb
Height
24–29 in
Apartment suitability
Less Suited

Is this right for you?

Common scenarios where this breed tends to fit well or less well

A good match

  • Can provide secure sprint time and calm decompression afterward
  • Prefer a quiet home and a sensitive dog that bonds deeply

Not ideal

  • Want casual off-leash time in unfenced areas or open trails
  • Have free-roaming small pets that run and trigger chase instincts

Social & behavior

Temperament and interaction style

Personality & activity

Quiet, watchful, and athletic—often relaxed indoors once exercise needs are met. Many prefer calm environments over constant bustle.

Handling & social style

Sensitive and easily put off by harsh handling. Patient introductions and gentle, consistent routines help them feel secure.

Care & health

Setup, routines, and health considerations

Care overview

Quiet, sensitive, and athletic—often reserved with strangers and very loyal to their people. Many prefer calm handling and can shut down with harsh or chaotic training.

Environment & space

Best in a peaceful home with secure fencing and predictable routines. They usually do well when the environment feels steady and respectful.

Daily routine

Daily walks plus safe sprint opportunities, with calm training and lots of downtime between activity.

Health sensitivities

Temperature comfort and sprint-injury prevention are practical themes; owners often keep conditioning steady and avoid rough footing.

Grooming / coat

Very easy coat care—minimal grooming and light shedding.

Background

Origins and how that history shapes what you see today

Origin region

North Africa

Background

Developed in North Africa as a sighthound for open-country hunting, the Sloughi was built for speed, endurance, and quick decision-making. That history shows up in a sensitive, observant temperament and a strong “see it, chase it” instinct. In homes, they often bond deeply but stay reserved with strangers.