Sloughi Feeding Guide

How much to feed your Sloughi — daily calories, portion sizes, and feeding schedule

Hound
large breed
35-50 lbs
Energy: 3/5

The Sloughi, a large breed hailing from Morocco, sits at #159 on the AKC popularity chart. An ancient sighthound from the Maghreb region of North Africa, the Sloughi has been the prized hunting companion of Berber and Bedouin peoples for centuries. The Sloughi is a member of the Hound Group — dogs originally developed to track game using their exceptional sense of smell. Their feeding plan should account for their tendency toward weight gain during less active periods. An adult Sloughi needs between 835 and 1091 calories per day, though this varies with age, weight, activity level, and individual metabolism.

Adult Sloughis (35–50 lbs) typically need 0.5 to 1.0 cups of high-quality dry food per day, divided into two meals. Choose a large-breed formula to support joint health and manage the risk of Progressive Retinal Atrophy. Needs daily running opportunities in a securely fenced area; they are less active than many sighthounds but still require regular sprinting time.—adjust portions based on activity level. Budget $55–85/month for food costs.

Daily Calorie Needs for Sloughi

Adult

835-1091

kcal/day

Puppy (peak)

986

kcal/day (6-9 mo)

Senior

668-873

kcal/day

Note: Feeding guidelines are estimates based on standard veterinary formulas. Every dog is different — consult your veterinarian for personalized advice.

Feeding Strategy for Sloughis

The Sloughi has a moderate energy level, making portion control straightforward but still important. Feed 2.2-2.9 cups of quality kibble daily, divided into two meals. A standard adult maintenance formula with balanced macronutrients works well. Monitor weight monthly, as moderate-energy breeds can gradually gain weight if portions aren't adjusted for actual activity.

Sloughi Feeding Schedule

1

Morning (7-8 AM)

1.1-1.5 cups kibble

2

Evening (5-6 PM)

1.1-1.5 cups kibble

Split Meals

Feeding your Sloughi two meals per day (instead of one large meal) helps prevent bloat, maintains steady energy, and improves digestion.

Portion Sizes by Food Type

Daily Portions for Sloughi

Based on average adult weight and activity level

Dry KibbleRecommended
Amount
2.2-2.9 cups
Calories
835-1091 kcal
Frequency
2 meals/day

~380 kcal per cup

Wet FoodRecommended
Amount
3.3-4.4 cans
Calories
835-1091 kcal
Frequency
2 meals/day

~250 kcal per 13oz can

Raw DietModerate
Amount
11-24 oz
Calories
835-1091 kcal
Frequency
2 meals/day

2-3% of body weight

Exercise & Feeding for Sloughis

Moderate daily exercise (30-45 minutes of walks and play) keeps the Sloughi fit and helps regulate appetite. Most Sloughis do well on a consistent daily portion without needing exercise-day adjustments. If your dog gets significantly more activity on weekends (long hikes, beach trips), you can add a small handful of kibble to their evening meal on those days.

Common Feeding Mistakes to Avoid

Using a puppy formula designed for small breeds

Large and giant breed puppies need controlled calcium and phosphorus levels to prevent developmental orthopedic diseases. Always choose a large-breed puppy formula that supports slow, steady growth rather than rapid weight gain.

Switching foods abruptly without a transition period

Any diet change — brand, flavor, or formula — should happen gradually over 7-10 days. Mix increasing amounts of the new food with decreasing amounts of the old. Abrupt switches cause digestive upset (diarrhea, vomiting, gas) in most dogs, Sloughis included.

Not accounting for treats in the daily calorie budget

Treats should never exceed 10% of your Sloughi's daily calorie intake. A single dental chew can contain 70-90 calories — significant for a dog that only needs 638 calories per day. Subtract treat calories from meal portions.

Sloughi-Specific Feeding Tips

Tip 1

Use an elevated food bowl set at chest height for your Sloughi. This promotes better posture during meals and may reduce the amount of air swallowed, which is especially important for deep-chested breeds.

Tip 2

Use food puzzles and snuffle mats to make mealtimes mentally stimulating for your intelligent Sloughi. Earning their food through problem-solving satisfies their mental needs and slows down eating — a win on both fronts.

Tip 3

With a lifespan of 12-16 years, the Sloughi will go through several dietary transitions. Plan for puppy formula, adult maintenance, and eventually a senior diet. Each transition should happen gradually over 7-10 days.

Breed-Specific Nutritional Needs

Based on health conditions common in Sloughis, consider these nutritional adjustments:

Progressive Retinal Atrophy

Antioxidants

Include foods rich in antioxidants (vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, lutein). Blueberries and carrots make excellent treats.

Sloughi Ideal Weight

Is your Sloughi at a healthy weight? The ideal range is 35–50 lbs (males 35–50, females 29–44). Check these three signs: Ribs: Easily felt with light pressure; not visible but not buried under fat. Waistline: A clear narrowing behind the ribs when viewed from above.

Male Sloughi

35-50 lbs

16-23 kg

Female Sloughi

29-44 lbs

13-20 kg

Related Guides

Feeding Guides for Similar Breeds

Frequently Asked Questions

Feeding Guidelines Disclaimer

The feeding recommendations on DosageGuide.com are estimates based on standard veterinary nutrition formulas (RER = 70 × weight^0.75) and general guidelines from AAFCO and veterinary nutrition resources.

Every dog is unique. Actual calorie needs vary based on breed, metabolism, activity level, health conditions, spay/neuter status, and the specific food brand you use. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized feeding advice.

These guides are for general reference and do not replace professional veterinary guidance. Adjust portions based on your dog's body condition score and weight trends.

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