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Saluki

Written by zooplus Editorial Team

In the Middle East, the noble Saluki dogs has been revered for thousands of years as a valuable hunting companion and loyal friend, often referred to as “Allah’s gift”. In Europe, this oriental greyhound is also gaining more admirers thanks to its friendly character and graceful appearance.

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© Alzbeta / stock.adobe.com

The sporty Saluki is as fast as the wind and needs a lot of exercise

Table of contents

  1. Character of a Saluki
  2. Appearance
  3. History of the Saluki
  4. Owning a Saluki Dog: Who Is Suitable?
  5. Health and Care
  6. Saluki Food

Character of a Saluki

Does the Saluki dog know that many Muslims view it as a gift from Allah? The high regard in which it has been held in its homeland, the Middle East, for thousands of years is likely not lost on this sensitive breed. Unlike any other, this dog exudes pride and grace with every fibre of its body. Though it forms close bonds with its humans, it always maintains a certain independence. The Saluki can sometimes behave more like a cat, thoroughly enjoying its owner’s affection but also retreating gracefully when in need of some peace.

Saluki Dogs: Independent and Stubborn?

A Saluki dog is never slavishly devoted to its owner, which sets it apart from many other dog breeds with a so-called “will to please”. This independence is often mistaken for stubbornness during dog training. However, those who approach a Saluki with respect and patience from the start will quickly see training success. Thanks to its intelligence and quick comprehension, this Persian greyhound learns very fast. Even its inherent hunting instinct can be managed with some know-how and consistency. However, this breed from the Middle East can get bored easily, and it’s not uncommon for it to “switch off” during repetitive or tedious training sessions.

Power in Calmness

Indoors, the Saluki is a remarkably calm housemate. Barking or growling is foreign to this gentle and friendly four-legged friend. Strangers are met with initial reserve, but once the ice is broken, the Saluki becomes a very sociable and open dog. However, unsolicited affection from strangers is firmly rejected. Some may be a bit wary of children, but Salukis that join a family as puppies usually adapt well and get along with other pets and children.

For peaceful and harmonious living, ensuring the Persian greyhound gets sufficient exercise is essential. Do not underestimate its need to run! If you like the Saluki, you might also find these breeds interesting:

© vadiml / stock.adobe.com
The Saluki is independent, similar to a cat, but still needs closeness to humans to be happy

Appearance

The Saluki’s passion for running and its appearance mark it as a typical greyhound. Its extremely long legs, narrow elongated head, and aerodynamic yet muscular build are particularly characteristic. With a height at the withers of 58 to 71cm, the Persian greyhound of the oriental type is among the large breeds. Its weight, up to 30kg depending on size, is relatively low for its height. The vast distribution area in the Middle East has led to the development of different types, primarily in terms of build – some are slimmer, others more robust.

Two Varieties and Many Colours

In Saluki breeding, only two main varieties are distinguished: the feathered Saluki and the short-haired Saluki. Though the breed is officially categorised under the feathered or long-haired greyhounds by the FCI with standard number 269, the fur of the feathered Saluki is also short and smooth. The feathering appears only on the legs, ears, and rod. The breed also displays a great variety of coat colours, including:

  • Cream
  • White (usually with dark spots)
  • Black
  • Chocolate (brown)
  • Red (with or without black ear fringes)
  • Black & tan
  • Black & silver
  • Fawn (sand-coloured)
  • Spotted
  • Tricolour
  • Grizzle (white-black-red-brown)
© DragoNika / stock.adobe.com
Typical sighthound: The Saluki is slim and muscular and comes in many colours

History of the Saluki

The Saluki has been known in the Middle East for thousands of years. Its historical range extended from the Sahara to the Caspian Sea, encompassing modern-day Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Iran, and Turkey. Dogs resembling today’s Saluki have been depicted on pottery, tombs, and cave drawings in the Nile region, some dating back to 3,600 BC. The Saluki’s ancestors were likely Egyptian dogs such as the Tesem.

Hunting Companion of the Bedouins

The people of the Middle East valued the fast, graceful dog with a gentle nature primarily as a hunting companion. Accompanying nomads across the desert, the Saluki’s speed and hunting instincts made it an invaluable helper when hunting gazelles, hares, and other prey. Long before Arabian horses were bred, Arabian Bedouins were already breeding Salukis. They regarded the Saluki as a gift from Allah, allowing it to sleep in their tents and taking loving care of it. The dog was part of the family, and selling these precious animals was hardly an option for its proud owners.

As Honour Gifts to Europe

Salukis first arrived in Europe sporadically. In Great Britain, they were first seen in 1840 as “Persian Greyhounds”. However, it wasn’t until 1895 that the first European breeding programme began, initiated by Baroness Florence Amherst of Hackney. During her travels in the Nile region, she encountered these elegant dogs and brought a female and a male from the breeding line of Prince Abdullah of Transjordan back to her homeland. In the early 1920s, she received support from English officer General Frederick Lance and his wife Gladys, who worked towards the recognition of the Arabian breed. The first official Saluki litter was recorded in England in 1922.

Owning a Saluki Dog: Who Is Suitable?

The relatively high price for puppies makes it clear that the Saluki is not for everyone. Besides the purchase price, there are additional costs for food, vet visits, and proper care, which can be quite expensive for a Saluki. The high running needs of the greyhound require ample space and a large garden. Living in a small city apartment is not suitable for this former Bedouin dog.

Buying the Most Precious Dog in the World

Salukis remain some of the most precious dogs in the world today. They have become status symbols for wealthy Arabs, English nobility, and American multimillionaires. Dogs from a purely Arabian lineage can cost between £8,000 and £11,000. In Europe, where such “pure” Arabian Salukis no longer exist, buyers pay significantly less at £800 to £2,000, although this price is still higher than for many other dog breeds.

A Saluki Owner Needs Time and Money

Besides the necessary funds, a Saluki owner needs time. People who are very busy with work and away from home all day are not suitable for this breed. Despite sometimes appearing self-reliant, the proud Saluki wants to be with its humans. Short walks around the block are not enough to satisfy this greyhound’s running needs. A Saluki wants to run, and given its hunting instinct, this is usually only possible in dedicated areas. Before acquiring a dog, check with greyhound associations to see if there are any racing or coursing facilities for your Saluki nearby.

Health and Care

Most Saluki dogs come from enthusiasts who aim to preserve the breed’s temperament, beauty, and health. No breed-specific illnesses are known for the Saluki. However, isolated cases of epilepsy, dental issues, and sudden heart failure have been recorded. Occasionally, psychosomatic illnesses due to excessive stress can affect this sensitive dog. If you notice changes in its skin or digestive system, always investigate the cause with your vet.

Clean Salukis

Despite the Saluki’s noble appearance, grooming this breed is straightforward thanks to its smooth, short coat. Brushing once or twice a week is enough to maintain its coat’s shine and texture. For feathered Salukis, focus on the feathering on the tail, paws, and ears to prevent tangles. Indoors, these elegant dogs remain very clean roommates, shedding little and not emitting a typical dog odour.

Saluki Food

It’s well known that a dog’s food is crucial to its health. But what food is suitable for this unique breed? The Saluki, like all domestic dogs, descends from wolves and is naturally a carnivore – a meat-eater. High-quality meat (e.g. muscle meat) should make up the majority of its diet. However, meat alone is not sufficient. To provide the dog with all the necessary nutrients and minerals, eggs, quark, vegetables, cooked rice or pasta, and animal fats should also be included.

Can I Prepare the Food Myself?

If you decide to prepare your dog’s meals yourself, you must understand the correct ratios. Factors such as size, age, weight, and activity level of the dog play a role. Consult your breeder or vet to create an optimal diet plan for your Saluki. In some cases, supplementing with minerals and vitamins, such as with a commercial supplementary food, may be necessary. Regular weight checks are essential to determine if your dog is receiving adequate and healthy nutrition. If you notice significant weight fluctuations, discuss the causes and potential dietary adjustments with your vet. Other serious symptoms of poor nutrition can include reduced vitality or changes in the fur structure.

Home-cooked, BARFing, or Ready-made Food?

Whatever diet you choose, it’s essential that the energy and nutrient needs of your dog are met. Each feeding method has its pros and cons. Just like their owners, dogs are individuals, and there is no food that fits all equally well. By paying attention to the ingredients, you can also provide your dog with a healthy diet using commercial wet or dry food. Ensure that the food does not contain too much grain. Avoid sugar, chemical preservatives, and artificial flavour enhancers.

More Tips for a Healthy Saluki Diet

Not only the content of the food but also the way meal times are managed is crucial for your Saluki’s health. Unlike drinking water, which should always be available, food should be given at fixed times (approx. one or two meals per day). After a meal, the food bowl should be cleaned and put away. Avoid strenuous activities after eating. Your Saluki should rest for at least one to two hours after a meal time before returning to running. This can also prevent the dreaded gastric torsion, which many owners of large greyhounds fear.

zooplus Editorial Team
zooplus Redaktion

The zooplus editorial team consists of a dedicated team of experts with many years of experience in the field of animal husbandry: Luisa with her White Swiss Shepherd Elyos, Laura, Julio, and Florian. Together with a large network of animal experts, we work to make the zooplus magazine a trusted source of information for all animal owners and lovers. Our goal is to provide exciting animal knowledge and relevant information on the proper care of pets.

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