Feeding a Sloughi is refreshingly straightforward compared to some breeds, but their athletic build and active nature do require some consideration. Think of them as the marathon runners of the dog world - they need quality fuel but aren't typically food-obsessed like some breeds.

A high-quality commercial dog food appropriate for their life stage works well for most Sloughis. Look for foods with good protein content to support their lean muscle mass, but avoid anything too rich that might upset their relatively sensitive digestive systems. Many Australian owners find success with premium kibble or a combination of quality dry food with occasional fresh additions.

Portion control is important because Sloughis can be prone to weight gain if they're not getting enough exercise. An overweight sighthound loses much of their natural grace and athleticism, plus it puts unnecessary strain on their joints. Most adult Sloughis do well with two measured meals per day rather than free-feeding.

Here's something interesting about sighthounds - they often have what looks like a "tucked up" belly, which is completely normal for their body type. Don't mistake this lean appearance for being underweight. Your vet can help you determine if your dog's weight is appropriate for their build.

During hot Australian summers, you might notice your Sloughi eating less, which is normal. Just ensure they're staying hydrated and maintain their regular meal schedule. Some owners find their dogs prefer eating during the cooler parts of the day, which makes perfect sense given their desert origins.

If you're looking for a low-maintenance breed in the grooming department, the Sloughi is your dream dog. Their short, smooth coat is about as easy-care as it gets, which is perfect for busy Australian families or anyone who'd rather spend time exercising their dog than brushing them.

A weekly brush with a soft bristle brush or hound glove is usually all that's needed to keep their coat looking sleek and remove any loose hair. During shedding seasons, you might want to brush them twice a week, but even then, it's a quick five-minute job. Their fine coat means they don't mat or tangle, and they rarely develop that typical "doggy" smell that some breeds are prone to.

Baths are only needed occasionally - maybe once every few months or when they've gotten into something messy during a bush walk. Over-bathing can actually strip their coat of natural oils, so less is definitely more with Sloughis.

The areas that need regular attention are the usual suspects: ears, teeth, and nails. Check their ears weekly for any signs of infection, especially if you've been to the beach or they've been swimming. Their teeth should be brushed regularly with dog-specific toothpaste - this is particularly important as they age.

Nail trimming should be done regularly, as overgrown nails can be uncomfortable for such an active breed. If you can hear their nails clicking on your tiles, it's time for a trim. Many Sloughis are quite good about nail care if you start them young and take it slowly.

In Australia's harsh sun, especially if you live in northern states, it's wise to apply a dog-safe, zinc-free sunscreen to their nose and ear tips. Their fine coat offers minimal UV protection, particularly on lighter-coloured dogs.

Training a Sloughi requires understanding their unique personality - they're intelligent and capable but definitely have their own ideas about how things should be done. Think of them as the thoughtful, independent student who excels when treated with respect but shuts down completely with harsh methods.

These dogs respond best to positive, patient training approaches. Forget about dominance-based methods or harsh corrections - they simply don't work with Sloughis and can actually make them more withdrawn. Instead, use treats, praise, and consistency to build a partnership with your dog. They're perfectly capable of learning commands and house rules; they just prefer to do it on their own terms.

Exercise is where Sloughis really shine, but it needs to be the right kind. They're sprinters rather than marathon runners, so they need opportunities for short bursts of high-intensity running followed by longer periods of rest. A securely fenced yard is essential because their prey drive is incredibly strong - a rabbit or cat running past can trigger an instant chase response that overrides all training.

Daily walks are important, but the real magic happens when they can run freely in a safe, enclosed space. Many Australian owners find success with dog parks that have secure fencing, though you'll need to supervise interactions with smaller dogs that might trigger their prey drive.

Lure coursing is an excellent sport for Sloughis, allowing them to safely indulge their chasing instincts. You'll find active clubs in states like Victoria and New South Wales, offering a fantastic outlet for their natural athleticism. It's like watching them come alive as they chase the mechanical lure – pure poetry in motion.