The Saluki is a medium to large purebred from the Middle East and is known by many other names such as the Persian Greyhound, Arabian Hound, Tanzi, and Gazelle Hound, or El Hor. It is believed to be one of the oldest domestic dog breeds still alive today and some suggest that it dates back to ancient Egyptian times. The name Saluki probably comes from an ancient Arab city no longer called Saluk. It was bred by nomadic tribes in the desert to hunt fast prey such as hare, deer, gazelle, and fox. It is a lighthouse and is highly prized for its eye-sight as well as its speed and agility. He chases his prey, kills it, and then brings it back.
| Saluki at a glance | |
|---|---|
| Name | Saluki |
| other names | Gazelle Hound, Persian Greyhound, Arabian Hound, Tanjik |
| surname | Egyptian royal dog |
| Original | Middle East |
| normal size | medium to large |
| average weight | 35 to 65 pounds |
| average height | 23 to 28 inches |
| Life span | 12 to 14 years |
| coat type | silky, long |
| hypoallergenic | No |
| color | Black & Tan, Cream, Brown, Brown, White, Tricolor, Red, Golden |
| Popularity | Not so popular – AKC. 125th place by |
| wisdom | Average – understand new orders in 25 to 40 repetitions |
| heat tolerance | Good – can handle hot climates but nothing too hot or excessive |
| cold tolerance | Moderate – Help is needed when the weather is cold |
| penthouse | Low – there won’t be a lot of hair around the house |
| Drooling | Low – not a breed that is prone to slobber or drool |
| obesity | low – no risk of weight gain |
| grooming / brushing | low to moderate maintenance – regular grooming required |
| barking | Occasional – does not bark all the time but is fairly regular |
| need exercise | Quite Active – Will need plenty of physical and mental activity |
| training capacity | Medium Easy for Experienced People |
| Friendship | very good with socialization |
| good first dog | Medium – needs an experienced owner |
| nice family pet | excellent with socialization |
| good with kids | very good with socialization |
| good with other dogs | very good with socialization |
| good with other pets | good but needs socialization |
| good with strangers | Less – even with the need for socialization this dog still needs supervision and training |
| nice apartment dog | Low – Not a good dog to live in an apartment |
| handles alone time well | does not like to be left alone for long periods of time |
| health issues | Quite healthy but can face cancer, heart problems, hypothyroidism and anesthesia sensitivity |
| medical expenses | $485 per year for basic health care and pet insurance |
| food expenses | $270 per year for good quality dry dog food and pet treats |
| Miscellaneous expenses | $655 per year for grooming, licensing, training, toys and miscellaneous items |
| average annual expense | $1410 as a starting figure |
| cost of purchase | $2,500 |
| rescue organization | Several including Saluki Club of Canada Rescue and Stola |
| cutting figures | no one reported |
Saluki’s Beginnings
The history of the Saluki is not easy to trace back like some dogs, in fact there are a fair amount of mysteries surrounding it. It is an ancient dog and is believed to predate written history. They have been present in the Middle East for thousands of years where they have been valued by nomads, and nobility for their hunting skills, beauty, and companionship. From Sumerian Empire carvings to ancient Egyptian tombs, sculptures, pottery, mosaics, and seals have all found the Saluki-like dog image.
The look, coat, and shape have sometimes changed over the years, depending on what area is being visited and the sport and weather of the area. Interestingly, followers of Islam who consider dogs to be unclean actually see these dogs as a special status, and may own it, stroke them, be with them, there may even allow them in the women’s sections of the dwelling. (1)
In 1840 some people known as Persian Greyhounds came to England. However, this remained largely unknown until the 1920s when officers returned from fighting in the Middle East and brought the dogs back with them and when the breed club was started. It was also imported to America in the late 1800s. They were officially recognized by the Kennel Club in England in 1923, and in 1929 by the AKC. However, as with most dog breeding, interest and numbers dwindled with the advent of World War II. Breeders were busy elsewhere and there was not enough food. In Britain many dogs were euthanized, many more died of starvation and some were lost in bombings.(2)
new lease on life
Thankfully enough litters continue to exist in large enough numbers for the breed to survive. Breeders also devoted time and resources to save them from extinction and were successful. The Saluki Club of America was formed in 1927 and was fully recognized two years later. (3) It is the mascot of Southern Illinois University Carbondale, but is still an uncommon breed in America, although it has fans. This AKC. 125th most popular registered dog by
the dog you see today
This dog is medium to large in size weighing 35 to 65 pounds and standing between 23 and 28 inches tall. It is a tall, graceful, balanced and slender dog with a silhouette similar to that of a Greyhound. It is not beautiful or fragile, although far from it, it has strength and its development for speed is evident. Its tail is low and long and is in a curve. It has some long feathers on the underside but it is not full.
Its neck is long and its chest is deep and its legs are also long. It also has feathers on its legs and ears, and this is especially evident if it has thighs on the back. There is a feathered type of coat as well as a less common sleek version. It is the same short length and silky to the touch but without feathers. Common colors include red, gold, black, tan, cream, fawn and gold. (4)
The Saluki has a narrow and long head that widens slightly between its ears and then narrows down to a slender and long muzzle. Its nose is liver or black in color and its eyes are deep and large and oval shaped. Their color ranges from dark brown to light hazel in color. Its ears hang down and fall near the head and are long. (5)
inner salukik
Mood
Salukis are very alert dogs and make excellent watchdogs. It will bark to let you know if an intruder is trying to get in, but it is not considered particularly protective so it may not act to defend you. Given its size it’s unlikely to really scare off intruders. While the breed tends to be affectionate, gentle, sweet and loyal, it is still best owned by owners with no previous dog experience. This is a very sensitive animal and will not be happy in a home where there is a lot of stress and noise.
The Saluki is an occasional barker and is also intelligent and temperamental. It can be independent, although that means it can have stubborn moments, it also has a sense of humour, is curious and can be mischievous, it can be reserved around strangers until it gets to know you, but it tends to bond very closely with one member of the family to another. It enjoys a snuggle and wants to be part of family activities, it also requires a fair amount of exercise and stimulation or can be difficult to control, it does not like to be left alone for long periods of time and needs soft bedding to lie on to prevent calluses. As a puppy it is playful and flamboyant but as it matures it becomes more dignified and docile.
living with a Saluki
What will the training look like?
This is a breed that is easy to train for those with experience, but difficult for new owners. Gradual results are to be expected and it is important to establish yourself as a clear leader, be firm and consistent, stick to the rules you set. It is an intelligent dog but it is sensitive so will not respond well to harshness or corporal punishment, and its independent side can mean that it is reluctant about the whole process. Be gentle and positive in your approach and be patient. Offer encouragement and praise, use treats to motivate and reward success, avoid punishment or scolding.
Also note that even with good training there is no dog that blindly follows him and his powerful prey drive will mean even when well trained, If he sees prey to chase he will fly away if he can, regardless of your command. Salukis are easily distracted so first train somewhere where there are no other distractions. Also keep the sessions interesting and fun and short. Several short sessions a day are going to be more effective than one or two long sessions if your dog is not listening and obeying! Also note that it is touch sensitive and is easily startled.
Then he will fly. Salukis are easily distracted so first train somewhere where there are no other distractions. Also keep the sessions interesting and fun and short. Several short sessions a day are going to be more effective than one or two long sessions if your dog is not listening and obeying! Also note that it is touch sensitive and is easily startled. Then he will fly. Salukis are easily distracted so first train somewhere where there are no other distractions. Also keep the sessions interesting and fun and short. Several short sessions a day are going to be more effective than one or two long sessions if your dog is not listening and obeying! Also note that it is touch sensitive and is easily startled.
Just as important as having at least a basic level of obedience is making sure it receives early socialization. This dog is reserved with strangers and without good socialization which can be suspicious and defensive. Have it introduced to different places, sounds, situations, places, animals, children, other dogs etc. The better socialized it is, the more confident and trustworthy it is. Housebreaking using crate training can take 4 to 6 months.
Saluki. how active
It is a fairly active breed so it requires attention from its owners, and it does well in the heat and not so well in the cold. It may be suited to apartment living if it has to be out together with it a couple of times a day, but ideally this is in a large house and has access to an up-and-coming yard or outdoor land. Saluki needs to run, just a couple of walks a day is not enough. Every day he needs a chance to stretch his legs and run free.
This means it needs a safe place where it can go off leash, a dog park will work if you don’t have land somewhere. It can reach speeds of up to 40 mph. Make sure it stays on a leash when walking on the roads as if it sees something that prompts it to chase the hunting instinct, And it doesn’t understand cars and won’t stop even if you order it. Certainly yards or land over 5 – 6 feet need to be fenced in well. It can join you for your hike, jogging on bicycle with you. A Saluki not getting enough exercise can become bored, depressed, destructive, anxious and difficult to live with. It also requires mental stimulation and a good rotation of toys to play with.
Although it does not particularly like to retrieve balls or play roughhousing. Can be anxious and difficult to live with. It also requires mental stimulation and a good rotation of toys to play with. Although it does not particularly like to retrieve balls or play rough housing. Can be anxious and difficult to live with. It also requires mental stimulation and a good rotation of toys to play with. Although it does not particularly like to retrieve balls or play rough housing.
Saluki Care
need grooming
The Saluki is easy to care for, with really little maintenance in terms of grooming and cleaning. It sheds a small amount so there isn’t a lot of loose hair to deal with around the house, making it a great option for people who don’t want to live with a lot of dog hair. It sheds a bit more in the spring, although this period may require a bit more cleaning and twice a week brushing. Feathered coats in particular need that regular brushing otherwise it tends to become matted and matted.
People with show dogs have them trimmed to increase their size. This is a dog that is almost odorless so it certainly doesn’t require a lot of bath time, only keep it when it has gotten really dirty. Always also use a proper dog shampoo so that you don’t dry out the natural oils in his skin. If the mess isn’t too bad then wiping with a damp cloth may be effective.
Other grooming needs will include nail clippings, ear cleaning, and tooth brushing. Oral hygiene is just as important with your dog as it is with you. Brush at least two to three times a week with the dog’s toothbrush and toothpaste. Its ears should be checked once a week for signs of infection such as redness, irritation, wax buildup or discharge. They should also be checked once a week not by putting anything in the ear, but with a cotton ball and ear cleanser or a warm damp cloth Needs to be wiped clean.
Its nails may need to be trimmed, They get very long. Some dogs discolor their nails naturally with their activity but some may not. There are proper dog nail clippers that you will need if you are doing this yourself or you can have a groomer or vet do it. Be careful not to cut the nail too quickly where there are blood vessels and nerves. Going too low will hurt the dog and may cause bleeding. If you are inexperienced do some research or ask your vet how.
lunchtime
A Saluki will need to eat about 1 3/4 to 2 3/4 cups of good quality dry dog food each day, divided into two meals to avoid problems with bloat. It likes its food and is nimble and able to reach counters and so be mindful of where and what you leave its food! Exactly how much your Saluki will need depends on his size, health, age, rate of metabolism and activity level. Some owners find their Saluki to be a fussy eater, so you may have to try several foods before you can make it happy. Remember that this is not a fat or fat dog, it is sleek and thin, a Saluki should have only slightly visible ribs.
How is the Saluki with children and other animals?
It is a friendly breed with children, with good socialization and when grown up with them. Although it is somewhat tolerant, it does best with children over the age of 8. It has Thin Skin, which means rough handling from small and enthusiastic kids can easily cause injury. It doesn’t like rough play, being startled or being overly hugged and squeezed, and it is touch-sensitive, all the things young children are likely to do. Make sure children are taught to touch and approach it properly.
As with other pets in the household it can learn to accept them with socialization and if raised there with them. However, it is a dog with a high prey drive and it sees small animals as something to chase and catch. It is not easy to react with its quick reflexes and prevent something from happening. Often this dog doesn’t chase small critters, when it catches them it will kill them. Keep it on a leash when it is out around traffic. It can get along quite well with other dogs, especially those that are also Eighties, and other Salukis.
What could go wrong?
health concerns
The life span of a Saluki is 12 to 14 years. This is a fairly healthy dog but some problems can occur such as cancer, heart problems, Cushing’s, hypothyroidism, dermatitis, seizures, deafness, drug sensitivity, sunburn, eye problems and hip dysplasia (uncommon).
cutting figures
In reports from 35 years ago on dog attacks against people in the US and Canada, there is no mention of the Saluki. It is not a breed that is prone to injury to people, it does not have a lot of aggression. While no dog is completely ‘safe’, there are some things that can cause even the most gentle breeds to become aggressive, sometimes with obvious triggers, sometimes not. A good owner can reduce some of the risks although with socialization, training, it needs a level of exercise and stimulation, and it does need attention and love.
price tag for your puppy
The Saluki is not a common breed and prices for puppies are high, starting around $2000 to $2500 for a decent breeder, but then going up even more for a show quality dog from a top breeder. There will likely be a waiting list, but while tempting it may be to turn to other options to speed up the process such as pet stores, backyard breeders or other puppy mills source locations, avoid doing so.
These are not places you want to encourage to keep going. Another option if you don’t have a puppy or a pure breed is to check shelters and rescues. You may find a dog that you think is perfect for you that may not be purebred, But is loving and loyal and everything you want from a partner. Plus you’re giving it a new chance in a forever home. Adoption rates can range from $50 to $400 plus you have medical concerns taken care of.
When you have a dog or puppy, you will need some initial items for it such as a crate, bowls, collar and leash for example. These things will come for around $200. As soon as you have it home, you should take it to the vet for an exam, some tests and some other procedures. For example, it will require blood tests, deworming, a physical, shots, spaying or neutering, and micro-chipping. Initial health cost is approximately $290.
There are also week-to-week, year-to-year running costs to consider. A Saluki’s basic health care, which includes shots, check ups, flea and tick prevention and then pet insurance, will cost about $485 per year. Feeding it good quality dry dog food will cost around $270 a year and that includes dog treats. Then other miscellaneous costs such as training, toys, grooming, miscellaneous items and licenses would be about $655 per year. It’s about $1410./p > . gives the annual starting figure of
Name
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The Saluki is a sleek, graceful, athletic and loyal dog. It needs lots of time, it’s best around older children and needs a quiet home with owners who don’t always yell at each other! It does well in dog sports and was once said to be the fastest dog in the world. He has a very strong prey drive so should be kept on a leash when out and care should be taken when brought into a home with other small pets. Its coat is easy to care for, it is a clean breed and does not have a strong dog odor. Early socialization is important so that it doesn’t become suspicious or fearful. Training can be difficult because it leads to being independent. With the right owners it is devoted and needs lots of companionship.