Saluki

ATTRIBUTES: Dignified, Gentle, Independent-Minded

GROUP: Hound Group

ACIVITY LEVEL: Energetic

BARKING LEVEL: Medium

COAT TYPE: Smooth

COAT LENGTH: Short

SHADDING: Occasional

SIZE: Large

TRAINABILITY: Independent

CHARACTERISTIC: Medium Dog Breeds

Breed Overview

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Ancestry

Sighthound

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Origin

Middle East

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Registration

Middle East

Ancestry Icon
Size

23 - 28 Inches (Male)

Considerably Smaller (Female)

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Weight

40 - 65 Pounds

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Expected Life

10 - 17 Years

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY +
Independent
Lovey-Dovey
LOVE WITH CHILDREN +
Unwise
Good With Children
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS +
Unwise
Good With Other Dogs
SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT
No Shedding
Hair Everywhere
+
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS
Monthly
Daily
+
DROOLING INTENSITY
Less Likely to Drool
Always Have a Towel
+
COAT TYPE
+
COAT LENGTH
+
FRIENDLINESS
Reserved
Everyone Is My Best Friend
+
LIVELINESS
Only When You Want To Play
Non-Stop
+
VIGILANCE INTENSITY
What's Mine Is Yours
Vigilant
+
ADAPTATION CAPACITY
Lives For Routine
Highly Adaptable
+
OBEDIENCE LEVEL
Self-Willed
Eager to Please
+
STAMINA LEVEL
Couch Potato
High Energy
+
VOCALIZATION
Only To Alert
Very Vocal
+
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL
Loaf
Needs an Activity
+
COLORS
+
PATTERNS
+
CARING WITH FAMILY
Independent
Lovey-Dovey
The degree of affection a breed displays towards family members or familiar individuals can vary significantly. Certain breeds might reserve their affection exclusively for their owner offering a cool demeanor to others. Conversely, other breeds are known for their open-hearted approach extending a warm friendly attitude to anyone they're acquainted with, often treating each familiar face as though they were a treasured companion.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN
Unwise
Good With Children
The inherent patience and child-friendly disposition of a dog breed are vital aspects when integrating them into a household. Always ensure dogs are monitored around children especially if those children lack previous experiences with dogs.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS
Unwise
Good With Other Dogs
The natural predisposition of a dog breed to engage amicably with its fellow canines is worth noting. While close supervision is key during any canine introduction or interaction, certain breeds exhibit a higher propensity for congenial relations with other dogs, whether within the family environment or amidst the broader public setting.
SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT
No Shedding
Hair Everywhere
The amount of fur and fluff you’ll find around your home from your furry friend. Breeds that naturally shed a lot tend to necessitate more regular grooming sessions. Moreover, they're often the culprits behind specific allergy flare-ups and may prompt you to make vacuuming and lint-rolling a more regular part of your cleaning routine.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS
Monthly
Daily
Consider the grooming schedule a breed demands, which includes bathing, brushing, trimming and other forms of coat upkeep. Reflect on the amount of time, patience, and financial resources at your disposal dedicated to these care practices when evaluating the grooming commitment involved. Keep in mind that no matter the breed consistent nail trimming is a must for all furry pals.
DROOLING INTENSITY
Less Likely to Drool
Always Have a Towel
Take into account a breed's likelihood of being drool-heavy. For those who cherish cleanliness and can't quite embrace the idea of slobber trails on their arms or sizable damp patches on their attire opting for a less drooly companion might be the way to go.
COAT STYLES GUIDE
Smooth
COAT SPECTRUM
Short
FRIENDLINESS
Reserved
Everyone Is My Best Friend
Consider the breed's typical approach to unfamiliar faces. Certain breeds may naturally hold back or display caution around anyone they don't know no matter the setting, whereas others could be the epitome of friendliness ready to greet a newcomer with wagging tails and excited yips at any opportunity.
LIVELINESS
Only When You Want To Play
Non-Stop
Reflect on the playfulness you can expect from a breed throughout its life. Certain breeds retain their zest for active games like tug-of-war or fetch long beyond their puppy days. Meanwhile, other breeds may prefer spending a more laid-back existence content to simply lounge on the sofa and keep you company.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY
What's Mine Is Yours
Vigilant
Reflect on how prone a breed is to let you know when someone is at the door. Breeds with a keen sense for guarding will often alert you to anything out of the ordinary be it your daily mail delivery or a squirrel scampering by the window. Generally, these dogs will adjust their stance and become welcoming to newcomers once they understand that their family accepts the visitor into the home.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY
Lives For Routine
Highly Adaptable
Consider a breed's adaptability to change. This encompasses adjustments in living environments, varying noise levels, shifts in weather, alterations in daily routines and other everyday life fluctuations. Some breeds seamlessly roll with the punches, while others may need extra time and reassurance to get accustomed to new situations.
OBEDIENCE LEVEL
Self-Willed
Eager to Please
Ponder over the ease of training your dog and how receptive they'll be to picking up new tricks and behaviors. Certain breeds are eager to please striving to fulfill their owner's wishes, while others have a more independent streak choosing to follow their own whims at their own pace and place.
STAMINA LEVEL
Couch Potato
High Energy
Contemplate the level of physical activity and mental engagement a breed requires. High-energy breeds are a bundle of zeal always on standby for whatever lively escapade comes next, happily spending their days frolicking, leaping and playing. On the flip side, low-energy breeds are the canine equivalent of couch potatoes perfectly content to laze around and indulge in long, leisurely naps.
VOCALIZATION
Only To Alert
Very Vocal
Medium
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL
Happy to Lounge
Needs a Job or Activity
Think about the level of mental exercise a breed necessitates to maintain its joy and overall well-being. Dogs bred for specific roles may thrive on tasks that demand critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, focus and other mental faculties. Without ample opportunities to flex their mental muscles, they may take the initiative to launch 'projects' of their own devising and it's likely these activities won’t align with your own idea of a good time.
COLORS

Description

Registration Code

Black & Tan

018

Black Tan & White

030

Cream

076

Fawn

082

Golden

093

Red

140

Silver

176

White

199

Chocolate

071

Chocolate & Tan

072

Black

007

Black & Silver

016

PATTERNS

Description

Registration Code

Parti-Color

038

Sable

026

Grizzle Markings

064

Irish Marked

115

Irish Marked Grizzle

123

Parti-Color Grizzle

124

Irish Marked Sable

125

Sable Parti-Color

126

About The Breed

The Saluki revered for its longevity among canine breeds has been a champion hunter alongside royalty for millennia. These svelte hounds blend endurance with elegance making them spirited hunters that thrive in the pursuit. Their disposition is at once noble and affectionate offering a blend of independence and loyalty as companions. Salukis carry an air of antiquity's allure with their svelte frames and muscle-tight compositions that echo the poise of elite athletes or prima ballerinas. The males boast a height ranging from 23 to 28 inches at the shoulder, while females tend to be somewhat smaller. They exhibit a rich tapestry of hues and patterns on their coats. Gazing into their large oval eyes one finds a depth of warmth and sagacity. Remarkably versatile, Salukis are equipped to acclimate to a diverse array of environments. While their majestic presence is undeniable prospective Saluki owners should prepare for the unique demands these majestic creatures bring.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN CARING FOR A SALUKI

Holding the title of a dog owner is not just a luxury. It’s a critical responsibility. They require from us the basics - food and shelter at a minimum but they are worthy of so much more. Welcoming a dog into your life necessitates an understanding of the depth of commitment involved in caring for a pet.

Anticipating the Needs of Your Saluki: Insights and Tips.

Taking a dog under your wing is no small favor; it's a true commitment. These devoted pets count on us for life's necessities such as food and a safe abode, however, they are entitled to a greater level of care.

Health

Health

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Salukis typically lead vigorously healthy lives and are often not troubled by severe hereditary ailments. Nevertheless, it's worth noting that they might face cardiac issues, including valve disorders or an irregular heartbeat and instances of an enlarged heart have been observed. There is also a risk of certain types of cancer like hemangiosarcoma, osteosarcoma, lymphoma or breast cancer, although the risk of the latter can be notably reduced by spaying at an early age. Some autoimmune disorders and blood-related problems have also surfaced within the breed. Additionally, Salukis should relax after meals, as intense activity during digestion can lead to bloat or gastric torsion,a critical condition demanding swift medical attention. Overall, with proper care, Salukis are known to embrace an exuberant and full life from their puppy days well into their golden years.

Health Assessment Recommendations from the Breed's National Association:

  • Thyroid Evaluation

  • Cardiac Exam

Health

Grooming

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Salukis come in two beautiful coat varieties: feathered and smooth. Both types are simple to maintain with routine weekly brushing. If your Saluki sports the elegant long feathers on their ears or tail, they may require a touch more grooming. To keep those graceful ear tresses tidy during meals many Saluki parents opt for a snood, which is especially handy as smooth-coated pals don't encounter this stylish dilemma. Known for their impeccable hygiene, Salukis don't carry the typical 'doggy' smell, which is a pleasant bonus. A bath is seldom necessary only when they've had a bit too much fun in the mud or are prepping to strut their stuff at a dog show.
Health

Exercise

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A regular exercise regimen is vital for Salukis to stay healthy and this includes leashed walks every day that keep both pet and pet parent in top condition in mind and body. These dogs are natural runners and flourish in an environment where a secure fence protects them from the hazards of the road. Moreover, to curb their tendency to escape or chew destructively when they lack stimulation or feel unhappy, it's critical to have robust fencing and to equip them with toys and bones that can withstand vigorous chewing.
Health

Training

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Three training approaches are particularly beneficial for your Saluki: Firstly, crate training is advised to ensure your dog's safety when confined at home or on the move. Secondly, fundamental obedience training is essential to instill good manners in both domestic settings and out in the wider community, a well-trained dog is often a welcomed companion in most spaces. Thirdly, engage your Saluki in dog sports like lure coursing, flyball or agility for a mix of mental challenge and physical activity. Moreover, starting early with routines for nail clipping and daily dental care will make these practices much smoother for your Saluki.
Health

Nutrition

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A Saluki will thrive on premium dog food that can either be of a high-grade commercial variety or prepared at home under the guidance and endorsement of your vet. It's crucial to match the food with the life stage of your dog, be it a pup, an adult or a senior. Be informed on which human foods can safely be shared with your canine friend and which ones to avoid. If you're ever in doubt about your Saluki's weight or diet, don't hesitate to consult your veterinarian. Always ensure they have access to fresh water. Saluki's eating habits vary widely, while some may eat sparingly others tend to overindulge, often feasting on their companion dogs' portions as well. For those with a hearty appetite, it may be necessary to feed them separately to control their weight.

Historiography

The Saluki stands as one of the venerable pioneers in the canine lineage. Connoisseurs of breed history posit that the origins of Salukis could trace back to the epoch of 7000 B.C. Aligning with their fellow sighthounds, the Salukis were once treasured companions of the noble and the ruling elite: cherished by the Egyptian pharaohs held in high regard by Alexander the Great and esteemed across the annals of time. Today's Saluki retains an uncanny resemblance to its age-old forebears in both its elegant contour and its stately demeanor. The same slender silhouette and innate poise that once captivated the imperial households spanning from the Middle East to Egypt and beyond throughout eras predating even the construction of the Pyramids continue to inspire awe in the modern admirer.

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