History of the Saluki
Regarded as one of the oldest dog breeds in existence, the history of the Saluki is scattered across the sands of time. These origins of these graceful hounds can be traced back to the ancient civilizations of the Middle East. Carvings and cave paintings depicting Saluki-like dogs have been discovered at several archaeological sites in the region of Sumer, which is present-day southern Iraq, some of which date back to 2100 B.C.
The Saluki, often referred to as the “Royal Dog of Egypt,” held a place of high esteem in ancient Egyptian society. Historical evidence suggests that these dogs were considered to be gifts from the gods and they were revered as such. Pharaohs and other royals often had their Salukis mummified and buried alongside them so the hounds could accompany their masters in the afterlife.
The nomadic Bedouin tribes of the Middle East held the Saluki in similar regard. For them, the breed was more than just a companion; it was a skilled hunter, essential for their survival in a harsh environment. Using their remarkable speed and sight, Salukis were adept at hunting gazelle, hare, and other desert fauna.
The breed’s name, “Saluki,” is believed to have originated from the ancient city of Saluk, in Yemen. However, other theories suggest it might derive from the Arabic word “Saluqi,” which refers to something hailing from the Arabian city of Seleucia.
Introduced to Europe in the late 19th century, the Saluki quickly gained popularity, especially in England. Their elegant appearance, combined with their hunting prowess, made them a favorite among the British elite.
The Saluki has garnered respect and recognition from leading kennel organizations across the world. The Royal Kennel Club (UK) granted it official status in 1923. This was followed by the American Kennel Club, which recognized the Saluki in 1929. Later, the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) added its seal of approval in 1966. Today, the Saluki occupies a cherished position in the sport of dogs, underscoring its rich heritage and widespread admiration.
The breed’s enduring legacy, spanning thousands of years, is a testament to its timeless allure and exceptional qualities. As both a companion and a hunter, the Saluki continues to captivate hearts and minds wherever it is found.
General Appearance
Height & Weight
In terms of height, adult male Salukis typically stand between 23 and 28 inches tall at the shoulder. Mature females are typically shorter in stature.
When it comes to weight, both males and females usually range from 40 to 65 pounds.
Proportion & Substance
The Saluki is the embodiment of grace and symmetry. The breed’s slender, elongated frame is well-proportioned, suggesting both strength and elegance. This sighthound is defined by its lightness and its swiftness. Its body is moderately deep, with a gently curved topline and a slight arch over the loin. When the Saluki is in motion, it is impossible not to be captivated by this sighthound’s effortless, fluid gait, a testament to its hunting heritage.
Coat Texture, Colors & Markings
Texture: The Saluki has two coat types: smooth or feathered. Both variations are silky to the touch, exuding an air of elegance and refinement. The length of the smooth coat is consistently short over the body, although a slight “brush” on the tail is acceptable. The coat of the feathered variety, however, may vary in length from quite short to several inches in length. The hair is longer on the ears, neck, tail, back of the forelegs and thighs, between the toes, and sometimes on the thighs and shoulders, giving it a distinctly elegant appearance. Puppies can have “puppy fuzz” over the body, which generally disappears with the arrival of the adult coat. Adult Salukis, particularly the males, can have a neck ruff of longer hair.
Saluki Colors
|
Standard Color |
| Black & Tan |
ee |
| Black Tan & White |
ee |
| Cream |
ee |
| Fawn |
ee |
| Golden |
ee |
| Red |
ee |
| Silver |
ee |
| White |
ee |
| Chocolate |
ee |
| Chocolate & Tan |
ee |
| Black |
ee |
| Black & Silver |
ee |
Saluki Markings
|
Standard Marking |
| Parti-Color |
ee |
| Sable |
ee |
| Grizzle Markings |
ee |
| Irish Marked |
ee |
| Irish Marked Grizzle |
ee |
| Parti-Color Grizzle |
ee |
| Irish Marked Sable |
no |
| Sable Parti-Color |
no |
A Note About Color: Color is immaterial in the Saluki; however, brindle is a coloration that is not desired in the breed.
Head
- Skull: The skull of the Saluki is moderately broad, gradually tapering into a long and narrow muzzle. A slight stop between the skull and muzzle is not pronounced, giving the head a noble and refined look.
- Expression: The expression is soft yet alert, often giving a faraway, contemplative look that is befitting of the breed’s ancient lineage.
- Eyes: Set well apart, the eyes are large, bright, and oval-shaped but not too prominent. Colors range from dark to hazel, harmonizing beautifully with the coloration of the coat.
- Ears: The ears are long, and in the feathered variety they are covered with silky hair. They are mobile, set on high, and hang close to the sides of the head.
- Muzzle: Long and refined, the muzzle is roughly equal in length to the skull. It is generally parallel with the backskull, although it tapers towards the nose.
- Nose: The nose can be black or liver in color, with wide nostrils that hint at the breed’s keen sense of smell. A very slight Roman nose may be present.
- Bite: The Saluki possesses a level or scissors bite, where the upper incisors closely overlap the lower incisors, ensuring a strong grip—critical for a hound historically used for hunting in a desert environment.
Tail
The tail of the Saluki is long, set low, and carried naturally in a gentle curve. When the Saluki is in motion or excited, the tail may be elevated but doesn’t curl over the back. It is well covered with hair, especially in the feathered variety where the hair is more pronounced, giving it a plume-like appearance. The tail’s length and flexibility allow the Saluki to use it as a rudder during high-speed chases, aiding in balance and quick changes in direction.
The Saluki – What to Consider?
Choosing to bring a Saluki into the home is a commitment to understanding and appreciating a breed with ancient roots and unique needs. These hounds, referred to as the “Royal Dog of Egypt,” possess a blend of grace, speed, and endurance, but with their regal appearance, they also come with specific responsibilities for their handlers and caretakers.
Home Life
Interaction With Family
The level of affection a breed typically shows towards family members and familiar individuals will vary. While some breeds may only show genuine warmth towards their owner, remaining standoffish with strangers, other breeds will treat everyone they meet as if they are their closest friend.
Independent Affectionate
Good With Other Dogs
The innate friendliness of a dog towards other dogs can depend on its breed. Although supervision is always recommended during introductions, certain breeds tend to be inherently more or less sociable with other dogs, whether in a home setting or in public spaces.
Not Recommended Reliable With Other Dogs
Good With Young Children
The degree to which a breed will typically be patient with young children, and its overall suitability as a family member, will vary. It is important to always supervise interactions between dogs and the kids in the house, as well as with children who are not accustomed to being around dogs.
Not Recommended Dependable With Children
Upkeep
Amount Of Shedding
The amount of hair that a dog sheds will typically depend on its breed. Heavy-shedding breeds require more frequent brushing, have a higher chance of activating specific allergies, and often necessitate more frequent use of the vacuum cleaner and lint rollers.
Low High
Frequency Of Grooming
The regularity with which a breed needs bathing, brushing, trimming, or other forms of coat care is an all-important consideration. When evaluating the grooming effort required, consider your available time, patience, and budget. It is important to note that all breeds need routine ear, teeth, and nail care.
Monthly Daily
Amount Of Drooling
The tendency of a breed to drool significantly varies from breed to breed. For those who prefer cleanliness or are particular about keeping things tidy, breeds that are likely to leave trails of drool on your arm or large slobbery marks on your clothing and furniture might not be the best fit.
Low High
Coat Type
smooth
wiry
hairless
rough
corded
double
curly
wavy
sikly
Behavior
Acceptance Of New People
The likelihood of a breed to be friendly towards strangers will vary. While some breeds may consistently exhibit reserve or caution around unfamiliar people, regardless of the setting, others are often eager to greet and interact with any new person they meet.
Reserved Outgoing
Protective Nature
The propensity of a dog to notify you of the presence of strangers is breed-dependent. Some breeds are more inclined to respond to any perceived threat, be it the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. However, most breeds are generally more accepting of strangers who are welcomed by their human family members.
Minimal Interest Maximum Vigilance
Playfulness Level
The likelihood of a breed remaining playful beyond puppyhood will vary. Certain breeds retain their enthusiasm for activities like tug-of-war or games of fetch well into their adult years, whereas others are more content to simply lounge on the sofa with you for the majority of time.
Low High
Adaptability Level
The ease with which a breed can adapt to changes in its environment can vary greatly. This adaptability encompasses how well a breed is likely to cope with alterations to its home and yard, noise levels, weather conditions, daily routines, and other fluctuations in everyday life.
Low High
Personality
Trainability Level
The ease with which a dog can be trained and its eagerness to learn new skills can depend on the breed. Some breeds are naturally inclined to please their owners and will readily accept training, while others tend to follow their own desires, often showing independence in how, when, and where they choose to do things.
Stubborn Eager
Barking Level
The frequency of vocalization, including barking and howling, will vary from breed to breed. Some may bark at each person who passes by and every bird in the sky, while others will typically bark only for a good reason. Additionally, a few breeds that do not typically bark will still be vocal, using different sounds to communicate.
Quiet Vocal
Energy Level
The level of physical exercise and mental engagement required will depend on the breed. High-energy breeds are always on the go. They are enthusiastic about their next activity and tend to be busy most of the time, running, jumping, and playing throughout the day. In contrast, low-energy breeds are akin to couch potatoes, content to just lounge around and take naps throughout the day.
Couch Potato Busybody
Need For Mental Stimulation
The extent of mental stimulation needed to keep a dog content and healthy will vary by breed. Dogs bred for specific purposes may need tasks involving decision-making, problem-solving, and concentration. Without sufficient mental exercise, these dogs can resort to creating their own activities to engage their minds, resulting in unwanted behaviors like chewing, digging, and escaping.
Minimal Engagement Intensive Interaction
Saluki Health
The Saluki is generally considered a robust and resilient breed, inheriting the lineage of a desert hunter built for stamina and speed. However, as with any dog, individuals can be prone to certain health issues.
Lifespan: The average lifespan of a Saluki is around 10 to 17 years. With attentive care, many Salukis live comfortably in their golden years, still showcasing the grace and elegance that has been a hallmark of the breed for centuries.
Potential Health Risks
Like all breeds and mixed breeds, the Saluki is not immune to a few health concerns. Some of the more common risks associated with the breed include:
- Cardiomyopathy: This is a condition where the heart muscles weaken, affecting the heart’s ability to pump blood effectively.
- Hypothyroidism: A disorder of the thyroid gland, this disease can result in a range of symptoms that include lethargy, weight gain, and problems with the skin and coat.
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): This is an eye condition that can lead to blindness.
- Osteosarcoma: A type of bone cancer , this disease is most prevalent in larger dog breeds.
- Bloat or Gastric Torsion: A rapid accumulation of gas in the stomach, this is a potentially life-threatening condition that requires prompt medical intervention.
It is worth noting that while these issues can occur, they aren’t guaranteed to affect every Saluki during their lifetime. Regular veterinary visits, and a good relationship with the dog’s breeder, are paramount for early detection and management of any health issue.
Saluki Personality
The Saluki is a breed renowned for its dignified demeanor and ancient heritage. While these dogs have a reserved nature, they form deep bonds with their human companions, showcasing a loyalty that is both profound and enduring. They aren’t typically suited for novice owners, however, as their independent spirit requires an understanding and patient caretaker who can appreciate and manage the hound unique traits.
Salukis have a moderate sensitivity level, which means they can be affected by their environment. Sudden changes can stress them out. These sighthounds cherish their quiet time and might not appreciate a chaotic household. However, this sensitivity also translates to their being incredibly intuitive and empathetic companions, often attuned to their human partner’s emotions.
When it comes to socialization, Salukis typically exhibit selective behavior. They can be aloof with strangers, taking their time to warm up. However, once they decide someone is trustworthy, they can be quite affectionate. As for other dogs, they generally get along well, especially if they’ve been raised together. The Saluki’s history as a hunting dog means it has an inherent pack mentality, but introductions to unfamiliar dogs should still be done with care.
The Saluki tends to be gentle with children, especially if it has been raised with them. The breed’s calm disposition makes these hounds particularly good companions for older kids. However, due to their somewhat reserved nature, it is always a good idea to supervise interactions with very young children, and to teach the kids how to approach and handle the dog appropriately.
Saluki Feeding & Nutrition
Feeding a Saluki appropriately requires an understanding of their unique nutritional needs, which are shaped by their athletic build and historical role as desert hunters. The energy requirements of a Saluki can vary based on their age, activity level, and individual metabolism.
When it comes to Saluki puppies, their rapid growth means they need a diet rich in essential nutrients. High-quality puppy food is crucial during this phase to support their developing bones and muscles. Splitting their daily food intake into multiple smaller meals can aid digestion and prevent overeating.
As Salukis transition into adulthood, their dietary needs change. Adult Salukis, depending on their activity level, typically require a balanced diet formulated for medium to large breeds. It’s essential to monitor their weight and adjust their food portions accordingly to prevent obesity, as an overweight Saluki can face numerous health issues.
The average Saluki might consume between 2 to 2.5 cups of high-quality dog food daily, split into two meals. However, it’s always wise to consult with a veterinarian regarding the specific amount, as factors like age, activity level, and health can influence their dietary needs.
Fresh water should always be accessible to Salukis. Their slender build and active nature mean they can get dehydrated quickly, especially in warmer climates. Regularly checking their water dish and keeping it clean ensures they remain hydrated and healthy.
Saluki Training
Training a Saluki can be both a rewarding and challenging endeavor due to their independent and sometimes aloof nature. These dogs are intelligent, but they possess a free spirit that hails from their long history as desert hunters. This means that while they can grasp commands and lessons quickly, they might also choose when to obey based on their mood or distractions in their environment.
Salukis aren’t known for excessive barking. However, if left alone for extended periods or if they become bored, they might vocalize their displeasure. Providing them with enough mental and physical stimulation can mitigate such behaviors.
Their intelligence is undeniable. Salukis are quick learners and can excel in obedience training if it’s made engaging for them. Positive reinforcement methods, such as treats or praise, often work best with this breed. Harsh training methods or scolding can be counterproductive, causing the Saluki to become more reserved or even distant.
A trait to be mindful of is their strong prey drive. Salukis have an innate desire to chase, stemming from their days as hunting dogs in the deserts of the Middle East. This means they might be tempted to chase smaller animals, and having them off-leash in an unfenced area can be risky.
Salukis are not typically prone to wandering, but their curiosity and hunting instincts can sometimes get the better of them. Secure fencing and a watchful eye during outdoor activities can help manage this trait.
Saluki Exercise
The exercise needs of Salukis reflect their historical role as swift and enduring desert hunters. Although they’re often described as laid-back and even couch-loving indoors, the outdoors transforms them, revealing their true athletic nature. Salukis appreciate the freedom to stretch their legs and enjoy a good sprint, taking advantage of their incredible speed.
Exercise Expectations
| Energy Level |
Moderate to High |
| Exercise Requirements |
2 Hours/Day (Minimum), Daily Walks, Vigorous Running, Regular Daily Exercise, Playing with Another Dog, Mental Stimulation |
Their energy level is moderate to high. While they cherish their relaxation moments indoors, they equally relish regular opportunities to run. This breed benefits from a combination of structured exercises, such as daily walks or jogs, and unstructured playtime in a safely enclosed area where they can sprint to their heart’s content.
The intensity of the exercise can vary based on their age and overall health. Younger Salukis might have bursts of energy, requiring more frequent play sessions, while seniors might be content with more leisurely walks and shorter playtimes.
Playfulness is a characteristic trait of Salukis, especially during their younger years. Engaging them in interactive games, like fetch or agility training, not only caters to their exercise needs but also strengthens the bond between the dog and their human companion.
It’s worth noting that due to their slim build and thin coat, Salukis can be sensitive to extreme temperatures. On very hot days, it’s best to exercise them during the cooler hours of the morning or evening. Similarly, in cold weather, they might require protective clothing to keep them comfortable.
Saluki Grooming
The coat of the Saluki, while elegant and silky, doesn’t demand an overly complex grooming routine. Nonetheless, regular maintenance is essential to keep them looking their best and to ensure their skin and coat remain healthy.
Grooming Expectations
| Coat Type |
Smooth, Silky, Soft |
| Grooming Requirements< |
