Sloughi health: what owners should know

The Sloughi is generally a healthy breed. The best-known inherited problem is a form of progressive retinal atrophy, for which a DNA test exists. Like other sighthounds, Sloughis carry very little body fat and can respond differently to some anesthetic drugs, so make sure your vet knows the breed before any procedure. Responsible breeders DNA test for PRA and share information about the health of related dogs.

Regular weight checks, good dental care and prompt attention to injuries help keep a Sloughi healthy into its teens. Call your vet if your dog bumps into things in dim light, loses weight despite eating normally, goes lame after running, or has a cut that gapes open, since thin sighthound skin often needs stitches.