Origins of the Saluki
The Saluki originated in Turkey and was named after the Arabian city ‘Saluki’, which today no longer exists. The Saluki is also known by a few other names, such as Gazelle Hound, Arabian Hound and Persian Greyhound. They are believed to be closely related to the Afghan Hound. This dog breed is also the ‘Royal Dog’ of Egypt and their bodies were often found mummified alongside those of the great Pharaohs themselves. The Saluki was used for hunting gazelle, antelope, fox, jackal and hare. The saluki is potentially one of the oldest dog breeds known to man.
Adult Saluki
Sizes of Typical Male and Female Saluki
The Saluki is a large sized dog. Adult Salukis typically weigh between 14kg to 25kg. The height of the Saluki could vary from 58cm to 71.cm. Both the male and female Saluki are usually very similar in size.
Saluki Coats
The Saluki can have two types of coat; smooth or feathered. However, both types are odour free and easy to maintain, using a firm bristle brush weekly. The feathered type also has long tail and ear hair, which requires daily attention as it may become matted with food when dangled into their dinner. The Saluki is an average shredder.
Appearance of the Saluki
The Saluki can come in any colour excluding brindle. The most common colours include; white, fawn, golden, red, grizzle and tricolour (white, black and tan mix).
Saluki Temperament
The Saluki has great temperaments. The dog breed is gentle, friendly, loyal and extremely devoted. The Saluki is a great family and companion dog but may become attached to one individual more than the rest. The breed is very sensitive and does not take well to harsh discipline. Although good with other dogs, the Saluki has a natural chase and kill instinct, which means the dog should never be trusted with non-canine animals especially birds, guinea pigs, hamsters and rabbits. They may need to undertake obedience training to keep their hunting roots under control. The Saluki must be trained with calm, gentle and consistent approach to ensure the dog feels secure within its surroundings.
Saluki Puppies
Most good Saluki breeders in the UK will not let the puppies leave their mothers until at least they are 13 weeks old. Always ensure to acquire your Saluki puppy from a kc registered breeder.
White Saluki Puppy with a bone
Average cost of a The Saluki Puppy
From a reputable UK Saluki breeder in the UK, the dog typically costs between £700 and £1000.
Life Expectancy of a Saluki
The typical life expectancy of a Saluki is between 12 and 14 years.
What Health Problems Saluki Can Form
The Salukis are generally a healthy dog breed but could have some potential health issues. These could include; auto-immune disease, cancer, thyroid problems and heart problems. It is known that the Saluki has occurrences of ‘sudden death syndrome’ (unexplained death, usually under five years old). It has also been reported that they are sensitive to anaesthesia.
Exercising Your Saluki
The Saluki is a natural athlete and needs a great amount of exercise. This can be achieved by taking the dog on long walks or on a moderate jog-run. Salukis are at their most content while running although it is common that many are lost and even end up being killed as they spot small animals and begin to chase them. Due to this possibility, it is advisable to keep the Saluki on a lead at all times unless you are in a secure area.
Dog Groups related to the Saluki
Hound
