Page 29 - THE SLOUGHI REVIEW ISSUE 14

T H E S L O U G H I R E V I E W 2 9

MORPHOMETRY OF TLEMCEN’S

ALGERIAN SIGHTHOUND*

Researchers: Haddam H.Y, Mennani A, Hamel W, Benhamadi M, Gaouar S.B.S. - ALGERIA

SUMMARY BY M.- DOMINIQUE CRAPON DE CAPRONA - USA

This study predates the previous study by 4 years, and the Sloughi Seminar by 2 years. Its

aim was to compare the distribution of the body measurements of the Algerian
sighthound by gender, sampling zones and coat color. Sixteen morphometric variables
were measured, six indices were estimated and several coat colors were chosen.

The authors state:
“Although the Sloughi is present everywhere in North Africa, Morocco is the only country

that holds a standard of this breed. In Algeria, the Sloughi is used for hunting the African
golden wolf, the gazelle, and the hares in different regions of the country. It is also used in
dog sports such as running. Breeders favor Sloughi over the Spanish Galgo, the British
Greyhound and others sighthound breeds because of its endurance in long distance races

according to their statements.

These dogs are reared for their resistance to different climates, superior hunting skills, mild
and affectionate character. The aim of this study was a morphological characterization of

the local Algerian sighthound in the Wilaya of Tlemcen in order to provide the knowledge
basis for a better breed identification and management of the genetic diversity in this
relevant biological resource.”

The Algerian sighthounds were measured in the Wilaya of Tlemcen in seven different

zones where the number of breeders is more important: Remchi, Sabra, Chlayda,
Bensakrane, Hennaya, Ouzidane - all purely agricultural regions with many farms from
colonial time, and Ain Nehala - the first agricultural socialist village inaugurated in 1972 at
the border of the Wilaya of Tlemcen and the Wilaya of Sidi Bel-Abbes.

*Editor’s note: original title modified to fit the format of the magazine. See reference at end of
text.