Sloughi vs Alopekis - Breed Comparison | PetzLover

The courageous Alopekis is said to have run with and fought with bulls. To this day they escort bulls in Greece. They were used by the Greeks to contain the vermin populations, guard the chickens and ducks, and assist larger dogs in working with sheep. At one time it was thought that they originated from breeding of dogs and foxes, but this proved not to be true. It was also once considered to be the same breed as the Small Greek Domestic Dog, but it has since been declared its own breed.

The Alopekis is not a recognized breed with any of the current national or international dog organizations. The Kennel Club of Greece will recognize them once their population is large enough. They cannot be recognized by the AKC, IKC, or International groups until they are a much larger group.

The Sloughi is an ancient dog breed, dating back to the 13th century, and coming from Morocco, North Africa.

Much of its history isn’t well known. The dog is a member of the sighthound family. They were originally used for hunting purposes.

The world wars saw their numbers declining. The first Sloughi dog was introduced to the United States in 1973. It was in 1989 that the American Sloughi Association was founded. The dog was also recognized by the American Kennel Club as a Foundation Stock Service breed in 1997. The dog has also been recognized by FCI in the Sighthounds group.

They are rare in the United States and if you wanted to buy one of these dogs you would stand a better chance of looking for a breeder, and then there may be a waiting list.

The Alopekis is a small, fox-like dog with pricked ears on a head that is wedge shaped. They have large eyes, a deep and tapered muzzle with a broad nose. They are short but have long backs and a deep, wide chest with strong legs and feet. They have a beautiful tail that cures upward and a double coat.

The Sloughi is a big dog, tall and slender. The head is also long and elegant. He stands between 61 and 72cm, both male and female, and he weighs in the region of 18 to 28kg.

Looking much like a large Greyhound, the leggy dog has a noble look about him. Known for his hunting skills, he is fast and agile. In fact he is nicknamed the ‘Arabian Greyhound’.

The short straight hair makes him always look well groomed and clean. He sheds moderately throughout the year. Colors of the coat can be a fawn color, sandy, reddish brown or brindle and some come with the black mask and others without. He has medium length floppy ears and a long tail

Temperament:

The Sloughi loves his human family but is essentially a one-person dog. He is affectionate and loyal but can be quite stubborn, Having him trained and socialized does wonders and makes him amicable and well mannered.

He is quiet and intelligent and would prefer to be in a family with older children, and particularly with children who have been taught how to be kind and respectful with animals.

Children – fine once socialized

Special Talents - These are herding, watch dog, loyal and brave dogs.

Adaptability – They are very adaptable and highly intelligent.

Learning Ability – Alopekis are highly intelligent and very trainable.

Sloughis are independent, strong willed dogs who will need a firm owner who is consistent, fair and firm.

They're tall, slender dogs, elegant to look at and low maintenance with their short coats.

They are calm and dignified and when you make one of them your friend, companion and pet, you’re going to enjoy years of devoted companionship and loyalty.

The Alopekis is an endangered species of canine due to a variety of factors. Traditionally this has been a healthy gene pool and the breed has been an example of the evolution of small canines. Factors such as farm pesticides, urbanization and cross breeding have affected the breed’s future.

This is made worse by the fact that the female Alopekis only breeds once a year, the litters are small, and the puppy mortality is high. In addition, the dogs are regularly neutered as part of a program to control strays, despite their status as an endangered species.

Only a few genetic conditions are found in this breed and these can be the likes of autoimmune disorders such as eye disease, Addison's disease and irritable bowel syndrome.

These dogs are also sensitive to anesthesia as well as some medications. Other illnesses to look out for with this large dog are cancer, bloat and diabetes.

Feeding the Puppy

This is a high energy dog and the puppies need to be fed a high-quality puppy food. Feed about 1/3 of a cup twice a day.

Feeding the Adult

Feed high- quality dry dog food and dog treats to this active dog. Feed about ¼ of a cup twice a day – more if below average weight and less if overweight.

Points for Good Health

Keep them active and away from pesticides if possible.

Games and Exercises

This is a very active dog that needs a lot of exercise, games and if possible – a job.

Grooming:

The Sloughi's coat is short and smooth and he also doesn’t have an undercoat. He is looked upon as low maintenance as he just needs a good brush every now and then to rid the coat of loose hairs and to keep him nice and shiny.

Diet:

The Sloughi dog can be fed dry kibble, but it should be a top quality one – one for large, athletic dogs. The dry kibble is useful in that it helps to keep his teeth clean.

To add some tasty variety to your pet’s diet feed him some home made food occasionally. All chopped up, boiled chicken, brown rice or pasta and spinach, sweet potatoes and carrots are a healthy choice for your Sloughi and can be added to the dry kibble. Simple food like this keeps digestive problems at bay.

Try and include some raw meat into the diet as this can help in fighting off horrible skin diseases. Make sure he has constant access to fresh, cool water.

Exercise:

Sloughis love to be active and to have a good run. If you live near a park, allow him off the leash to have a chance to run. Alwys check first though, that it is safe to do so and that your loughi doesn’t try and fight with other dogs off the leashh or accidentally knock over a small child. If you’ve got a big garden, throw a frisbee or ball for him. It is important for him to get a good dose of exercise.