Saluki

The Saluki is one of the oldest dog breeds in the world that was used for hunting and companionship. It is known for its slim and graceful appearance that makes it stand out.

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Saluki Breed overview

Salukis are an independent and solitary breed with a strong wanderlust and hunting drive. They are loyal and affectionate towards their human family members and can be great with children with proper socialization. They have moderate to high energy levels and require plenty of exercise and playtime to stay healthy and happy. Salukis have a short, silky coat that requires minimal grooming, and they shed minimally. However, they can be challenging to train and may not be the best choice for novice dog owners. Overall, Salukis are an elegant and loyal breed that makes a great companion for active and experienced dog owners.

Height:
23-28 inches
Weight:
35-70 lbs
Life expectancy:
12-14 years

What To Expect When Caring For a Saluki

Exercise

Salukis are known for their exceptional physical ability, and thus, they require a lot of exercise. A daily exercise routine such as running, brisk walking, or running free in a secured yard is necessary to keep the breed healthy and fulfilled.

Avoid taking Salukis to busy roads as they are independent dogs and may get distracted easily.

Grooming

Salukis are a low maintenance breed when it comes to grooming. Their short, smooth coat requires minimal brushing to keep it looking nice and shiny. Regular routine inspections of ears, teeth, and nails should be done, and ear cleaning should be done regularly to prevent infections.

Health

Salukis are generally healthy dogs and don't suffer from a lot of inherited diseases, however, hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, eye problems, and cancer have been reported in some cases. Regular check-ups with a vet are recommended to ensure good health.

Due to their long limbs, Salukis are prone to injuries such as sprains, fractures and strains.

Nutrition

A healthy diet is important for Salukis to maintain optimal health. They require high-quality dry dog food with adequate amounts of protein and calories. The ideal diet should be based on their weight, age, size, and activity level. Always ensure clean fresh water is available.

Training

Salukis are independent thinkers that require early socialization and obedience training. Motivational or positive reinforcement training usually works well for this breed. They have excellent instincts as sight hounds, but are also independent contractors that need to learn obedience.

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Saluki Traits & Characteristics

The breed has a height of 28-32 inches for males and 23-28 inches for females. The weight is 50-60 pounds for males and 40-50 pounds for females. The coat comes in a variety of colors such as white, cream, fawn, golden, red, grizzle, black and tan, and tricolor.

Salukis are slim and stylish with long legs, a deep chest, a narrow skull, and a curved tail.

Affection

The degree to which a breed shows love and affection towards its human family members.

independent lovey-dovey

The Saluki breed is known for being very affectionate towards their human family members. They are loyal and loving companions, showing devotion through cuddles and snuggles.

Children

How well a breed interacts with children, including tolerance for play and energy level.

not suitable for kids great with kids

Salukis generally have a patient and tolerant disposition, which makes them great with children. However, due to their size and energy level, they may accidentally knock over small children while playing.

Dogs

The breed's friendliness and sociability towards other dogs.

not dog friendly very dog friendly

Salukis can be friendly to other dogs, but they are independent and solitary hunters by nature. They may not enjoy being around other dogs as much as some breeds do, but early socialization and training can help them get along better with other canines.

Strangers

The breed's reaction to unfamiliar people, including whether they tend to be wary or friendly.

reserved with strangers friendly with everyone

Salukis are generally reserved around strangers and may take some time to warm up to new people. They do not tend to be aggressive towards strangers, but they may not greet them with the same enthusiasm as they greet their human family members.

Playfulness

The breed's activity level and tendency to engage in play and games.

laid-back very playful

Salukis have a playful and energetic side, and they enjoy running and playing with their owners. They have a moderate energy level, which means they require plenty of exercise and playtime to stay healthy and happy.

Alertness

The breed's level of awareness and vigilance, which can affect their ability to perform certain tasks or jobs

less alert very alert

Salukis are highly alert and vigilant in their surroundings, which makes them great watchdogs. They have excellent senses and are always aware of what's happening around them, which makes them perfect for protecting the home and family.

Adaptability

The breed's ability to adjust to new environments and situations, including whether they are adaptable or may become stressed.

less adaptable very adaptable

Salukis are not the most adaptable breed and can be sensitive to changes in routine or environment. They prefer a stable and predictable routine, and it may take them some time to adjust to new people, places, and situations.

Shedding

The amount of hair a breed sheds, which can affect allergies and cleanliness.

no shedding hair everywhere

Salukis have a short, thin coat that sheds minimally. They are an excellent choice for people with allergies, but their coat requires minimal grooming to keep it healthy.

Grooming

The amount of maintenance required to keep a breed's coat healthy and clean.

low maintenance high maintenance

Salukis have short, smooth, and silky hair that requires minimal grooming. Regular brushing and occasional baths are all that's necessary to keep their coat healthy and shiny.

Drooling

The amount of saliva a breed produces, which can affect cleanliness and potential drool-related issues.

dry mouthed heavy drooler

Salukis are a naturally dry-mouthed breed and do not drool much. However, they may occasionally slobber or drool a bit when they are excited or thirsty.

Size

The breed's overall size, including their weight and height.

very small very large

Salukis are a medium-sized breed, weighing between 35 and 70 pounds and standing up to 28 inches tall at the shoulder. They have a slender and agile build that allows them to run and hunt with ease.

Energy

The breed's overall activity level, including their need for exercise and play.

couch potato high energy

Salukis have moderate to high energy levels and require plenty of exercise and playtime to stay healthy and happy. They enjoy long walks, jogging, and running in open spaces and need to have access to a secure outdoor area where they can stretch their legs.

Exercise

The breed's need for physical activity and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

low exercise needs high exercise needs

Salukis require plenty of physical exercise and playtime to stay healthy and happy. They enjoy running, jogging, long walks, and playing fetch and need access to a secure outdoor area where they can release their energy and stretch their legs.

Working

The breed's suitability for working and performing certain tasks or jobs.

not suitable for working great for working

Salukis were originally bred for hunting and have been used for thousands of years for tracking, chasing, and catching prey. However, their independent and solitary nature can make them challenging to train for specific tasks or jobs.

Hunting

The breed's natural hunting abilities, including their prey drive, scenting abilities, and tracking skills.

not suitable for hunting great for hunting

Salukis are natural-born hunters, and their incredible speed, agility, and scenting abilities make them excellent hunting dogs. They are particularly skilled at chasing and catching small prey, such as rabbits, hares, and birds.

Vigor

The breed's physical stamina and endurance, including their ability to maintain high levels of activity and energy.

low-drive high vigor

Salukis have a high level of physical stamina and endurance, thanks to their long history as hunting dogs. They can run and play for long periods without getting tired and require plenty of physical exercise to maintain their health and happiness.

Health

The breed's overall health and potential health issues, including whether they may be prone to certain illnesses or conditions.

less healthy very healthy

Salukis are generally healthy dogs, but they are prone to some health issues, including hip dysplasia, eye problems, and cancer. It's essential to work with a reputable breeder and schedule regular vet check-ups to prevent and detect any health concerns early on.

Obesity

The breed's tendency to gain weight and become overweight or obese, including whether they require extra monitoring and exercise.

not prone to obesity highly prone to obesity

Salukis can be prone to becoming overweight or obese if they don't receive enough physical exercise and eat too much high-calorie food. It's important to monitor their food intake, stick to a balanced diet, and provide plenty of opportunities for physical activity and playing.

Cold

The breed's ability to tolerate cold weather conditions, including whether they require extra warmth and protection.

not cold tolerant high cold tolerance

Salukis do not tolerate cold temperatures well, and they need to be kept warm and comfortable in cooler weather. They may require a sweater or jacket when going outside in the winter and should not be left outside for extended periods in cold conditions.

Heat

The breed's ability to tolerate hot weather conditions, including whether they require extra cooling and protection.

not heat tolerant high heat tolerance

Salukis can tolerate warm weather, but they are not the best dogs for hot and humid climates. They should be kept indoors or in a cool, shaded area during the hottest part of the day and should have access to plenty of fresh water to stay hydrated.

Apartment

The breed's suitability for new or inexperienced dog owners, including their trainability and temperament.

not suitable for apartments great for apartments

Salukis are not the best dogs for apartments or small living spaces. They require plenty of exercise and playtime and need access to a secure outdoor area where they can run and stretch their legs freely.

Wanderlust

The breed's tendency to wander or roam, including whether they may become lost or require a lot of supervision.

less likely to wander very likely to wander

Salukis are independent hunters by nature and have a strong wanderlust instinct. They are prone to roaming and may not come back when called if they catch a scent of prey or become too far from their home territory. Therefore, it is essential to keep them on a leash or in a secure outdoor area.

Sensitivity

The breed's sensitivity to criticism or negative reinforcement, including whether they may become stressed or anxious.

less sensitive very sensitive

Salukis can be sensitive to criticism or negative reinforcement and may shut down or become anxious if harsh training methods are used. They respond best to positive reinforcement and consistency and require a gentle and patient approach to training.

Separation

The breed's tolerance for being left alone, including whether they may become anxious or destructive.

not suitable for alone time great at being alone

Salukis can tolerate some alone time, but they do not like being left alone for long periods. They are social animals that form strong bonds with their human family members and can become anxious or destructive if left alone for too long.

Barking

The amount of barking a breed tends to do, including whether they may be vocal or prone to excessive barking.

quiet very vocal

Salukis are not known for excessive barking, but they are vocal when communicating with their owners. They may bark to alert the family of potential danger or to communicate their needs, but they are not prone to barking for no reason.

Mental

The breed's need for mental stimulation and engagement, including whether they are intelligent and require challenging activities.

happy to lounge needs a job or activity

Salukis are intelligent dogs that require mental stimulation and engaging activities to stay happy and healthy. They enjoy puzzle toys, obedience training, and other activities that challenge their minds and keep them occupied.

Novice_owners

Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.

not suitable for novice owners great for novice owners

Salukis are not the best choice for novice dog owners, as they can be challenging to train and have a strong hunting drive. They require a firm and consistent leadership, as well as plenty of mental stimulation and physical exercise.

Trainability

The ease of training a breed, including whether they are intelligent, obedient, and willing to learn.

difficult to train easy to train

Salukis are independent thinkers and can be challenging to train. They have a strong hunting drive and can be easily distracted by prey, which can make them difficult to train in obedience and other tasks that require focus and attention.

Affection

independent lovey-dovey

The degree to which a breed shows love and affection towards its human family members.

The Saluki breed is known for being very affectionate towards their human family members. They are loyal and loving companions, showing devotion through cuddles and snuggles.

Children

not suitable for kids great with kids

How well a breed interacts with children, including tolerance for play and energy level.

Salukis generally have a patient and tolerant disposition, which makes them great with children. However, due to their size and energy level, they may accidentally knock over small children while playing.

Dogs

not dog friendly very dog friendly

The breed's friendliness and sociability towards other dogs.

Salukis can be friendly to other dogs, but they are independent and solitary hunters by nature. They may not enjoy being around other dogs as much as some breeds do, but early socialization and training can help them get along better with other canines.

Strangers

reserved with strangers friendly with everyone

The breed's reaction to unfamiliar people, including whether they tend to be wary or friendly.

Salukis are generally reserved around strangers and may take some time to warm up to new people. They do not tend to be aggressive towards strangers, but they may not greet them with the same enthusiasm as they greet their human family members.

Playfulness

laid-back very playful

The breed's activity level and tendency to engage in play and games.

Salukis have a playful and energetic side, and they enjoy running and playing with their owners. They have a moderate energy level, which means they require plenty of exercise and playtime to stay healthy and happy.

Alertness

less alert very alert

The breed's level of awareness and vigilance, which can affect their ability to perform certain tasks or jobs

Salukis are highly alert and vigilant in their surroundings, which makes them great watchdogs. They have excellent senses and are always aware of what's happening around them, which makes them perfect for protecting the home and family.

Adaptability

less adaptable very adaptable

The breed's ability to adjust to new environments and situations, including whether they are adaptable or may become stressed.

Salukis are not the most adaptable breed and can be sensitive to changes in routine or environment. They prefer a stable and predictable routine, and it may take them some time to adjust to new people, places, and situations.

Shedding

no shedding hair everywhere

The amount of hair a breed sheds, which can affect allergies and cleanliness.

Salukis have a short, thin coat that sheds minimally. They are an excellent choice for people with allergies, but their coat requires minimal grooming to keep it healthy.

Grooming

low maintenance high maintenance

The amount of maintenance required to keep a breed's coat healthy and clean.

Salukis have short, smooth, and silky hair that requires minimal grooming. Regular brushing and occasional baths are all that's necessary to keep their coat healthy and shiny.

Drooling

dry mouthed heavy drooler

The amount of saliva a breed produces, which can affect cleanliness and potential drool-related issues.

Salukis are a naturally dry-mouthed breed and do not drool much. However, they may occasionally slobber or drool a bit when they are excited or thirsty.

Size

very small very large

The breed's overall size, including their weight and height.

Salukis are a medium-sized breed, weighing between 35 and 70 pounds and standing up to 28 inches tall at the shoulder. They have a slender and agile build that allows them to run and hunt with ease.

Energy

couch potato high energy

The breed's overall activity level, including their need for exercise and play.

Salukis have moderate to high energy levels and require plenty of exercise and playtime to stay healthy and happy. They enjoy long walks, jogging, and running in open spaces and need to have access to a secure outdoor area where they can stretch their legs.

Exercise

low exercise needs high exercise needs

The breed's need for physical activity and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Salukis require plenty of physical exercise and playtime to stay healthy and happy. They enjoy running, jogging, long walks, and playing fetch and need access to a secure outdoor area where they can release their energy and stretch their legs.

Working

not suitable for working great for working

The breed's suitability for working and performing certain tasks or jobs.

Salukis were originally bred for hunting and have been used for thousands of years for tracking, chasing, and catching prey. However, their independent and solitary nature can make them challenging to train for specific tasks or jobs.

Hunting

not suitable for hunting great for hunting

The breed's natural hunting abilities, including their prey drive, scenting abilities, and tracking skills.

Salukis are natural-born hunters, and their incredible speed, agility, and scenting abilities make them excellent hunting dogs. They are particularly skilled at chasing and catching small prey, such as rabbits, hares, and birds.

Vigor

low-drive high vigor

The breed's physical stamina and endurance, including their ability to maintain high levels of activity and energy.

Salukis have a high level of physical stamina and endurance, thanks to their long history as hunting dogs. They can run and play for long periods without getting tired and require plenty of physical exercise to maintain their health and happiness.

Health

less healthy very healthy

The breed's overall health and potential health issues, including whether they may be prone to certain illnesses or conditions.

Salukis are generally healthy dogs, but they are prone to some health issues, including hip dysplasia, eye problems, and cancer. It's essential to work with a reputable breeder and schedule regular vet check-ups to prevent and detect any health concerns early on.

Obesity

not prone to obesity highly prone to obesity

The breed's tendency to gain weight and become overweight or obese, including whether they require extra monitoring and exercise.

Salukis can be prone to becoming overweight or obese if they don't receive enough physical exercise and eat too much high-calorie food. It's important to monitor their food intake, stick to a balanced diet, and provide plenty of opportunities for physical activity and playing.

Cold

not cold tolerant high cold tolerance

The breed's ability to tolerate cold weather conditions, including whether they require extra warmth and protection.

Salukis do not tolerate cold temperatures well, and they need to be kept warm and comfortable in cooler weather. They may require a sweater or jacket when going outside in the winter and should not be left outside for extended periods in cold conditions.

Heat

not heat tolerant high heat tolerance

The breed's ability to tolerate hot weather conditions, including whether they require extra cooling and protection.

Salukis can tolerate warm weather, but they are not the best dogs for hot and humid climates. They should be kept indoors or in a cool, shaded area during the hottest part of the day and should have access to plenty of fresh water to stay hydrated.

Apartment

not suitable for apartments great for apartments

The breed's suitability for new or inexperienced dog owners, including their trainability and temperament.

Salukis are not the best dogs for apartments or small living spaces. They require plenty of exercise and playtime and need access to a secure outdoor area where they can run and stretch their legs freely.

Wanderlust

less likely to wander very likely to wander

The breed's tendency to wander or roam, including whether they may become lost or require a lot of supervision.

Salukis are independent hunters by nature and have a strong wanderlust instinct. They are prone to roaming and may not come back when called if they catch a scent of prey or become too far from their home territory. Therefore, it is essential to keep them on a leash or in a secure outdoor area.

Sensitivity

less sensitive very sensitive

The breed's sensitivity to criticism or negative reinforcement, including whether they may become stressed or anxious.

Salukis can be sensitive to criticism or negative reinforcement and may shut down or become anxious if harsh training methods are used. They respond best to positive reinforcement and consistency and require a gentle and patient approach to training.

Separation

not suitable for alone time great at being alone

The breed's tolerance for being left alone, including whether they may become anxious or destructive.

Salukis can tolerate some alone time, but they do not like being left alone for long periods. They are social animals that form strong bonds with their human family members and can become anxious or destructive if left alone for too long.

Barking

quiet very vocal

The amount of barking a breed tends to do, including whether they may be vocal or prone to excessive barking.

Salukis are not known for excessive barking, but they are vocal when communicating with their owners. They may bark to alert the family of potential danger or to communicate their needs, but they are not prone to barking for no reason.

Mental

happy to lounge needs a job or activity

The breed's need for mental stimulation and engagement, including whether they are intelligent and require challenging activities.

Salukis are intelligent dogs that require mental stimulation and engaging activities to stay happy and healthy. They enjoy puzzle toys, obedience training, and other activities that challenge their minds and keep them occupied.

Novice_owners

not suitable for novice owners great for novice owners

Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.

Salukis are not the best choice for novice dog owners, as they can be challenging to train and have a strong hunting drive. They require a firm and consistent leadership, as well as plenty of mental stimulation and physical exercise.

Trainability

difficult to train easy to train

The ease of training a breed, including whether they are intelligent, obedient, and willing to learn.

Salukis are independent thinkers and can be challenging to train. They have a strong hunting drive and can be easily distracted by prey, which can make them difficult to train in obedience and other tasks that require focus and attention.

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History of the Saluki

The Saluki, also known as the Persian Greyhound, is an ancient breed that originated in the Middle East around 7,000 years ago. It was bred by Bedouin tribes for hunting hare, foxes, and gazelles.

The Saluki was named after the Arabian city of Saluk where the breed was highly prized. These dogs were so highly regarded that they were often given as gifts to other countries.

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Saluki Puppies

Saluki puppies are independent but need socialization at an early age to prevent shyness and apprehension towards humans. They should also be given enough exercises to improve their physical and mental development.

The breed has a low tolerance for harsh discipline and corrective measures, thus positive reinforcement is the ideal method of training.