The Sloughi, also known as the Arabian Greyhound, is a breed of dog that originated in North Africa. It is believed to be one of the oldest dog breeds in the world, with evidence of its existence dating back to ancient Egyptian times. In this article, we will explore the history of the Sloughi breed, from its origins in North Africa to its popularity as a beloved pet today.
Origins of the Sloughi Breed
The Sloughi is believed to have originated in North Africa, specifically in Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, and Libya. The breed is part of the group of sighthounds, which are dogs that hunt by sight rather than scent. The Sloughi was originally used by nomadic tribes in the Sahara desert to hunt wild game, including gazelle and hare.
The breed was highly valued by these tribes, and its breeding was carefully controlled to preserve its hunting ability and physical characteristics. The Sloughi was also used for guarding camps and homes, and its intelligence and loyalty made it a valuable companion for these purposes as well.
Early History of the Sloughi
The exact origins of the Sloughi are not known, but it is believed to be a very old breed. Some historians believe that the Sloughi may have been introduced to North Africa by Phoenician traders, while others believe that it may have originated from the dogs used by the ancient Egyptians.
The Sloughi was first introduced to Europe in the 19th century, when French and English hunters and explorers brought the dogs back with them from North Africa. However, it was not until the early 20th century that the breed began to gain popularity in Europe and the United States.
In 1925, the Société Centrale Canine (the French Kennel Club) recognized the Sloughi as a distinct breed, and the first Sloughi breed standard was established. The breed was also recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (the World Canine Organization) in 1935.
Modern History of the Sloughi
Today, the Sloughi is a rare breed, with only a few thousand dogs in existence worldwide. The breed is still primarily used for hunting and as a companion, and its hunting abilities and loyalty continue to make it a popular choice for these purposes.
The breed has also become more popular as a show dog in recent years, with Sloughis being shown in dog shows and competitions around the world. The breed has been recognized by the American Kennel Club since 2016, and is part of the AKC’s Hound Group.
Physical Characteristics of the Sloughi
The Sloughi is a medium to large-sized dog, standing between 24 and 29 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing between 35 and 60 pounds. The breed has a lean, muscular build, with a deep chest, long, straight legs, and a long, tapering tail.
The Sloughi’s coat is short and smooth, with a dense undercoat and a longer, coarser topcoat. The breed’s coat can be a variety of colors, including cream, fawn, red, black, and brindle.
The Sloughi’s head is long and narrow, with a slightly curved profile and large, dark eyes. The breed’s ears are medium-sized, folded back against the head when at rest and raised when the dog is alert or excited.
Temperament of the Sloughi
The Sloughi is an intelligent and loyal breed, with a strong hunting instinct and a deep attachment to its owner. The breed is known for its calm and gentle nature, and is generally good with children and other pets.
