Saluki
Quick Summary
Elegant sighthound ideal for experienced owners seeking athletic companion. Key considerations include secure space requirements, exercise needs, and independent nature.
Contents
Weight Range
40-65 lbs
♂ Male: 40-65 lbs
♀ Female: 40-65 lbs
Height Range
58-71 inches
♂ Male: 23-28"
♀ Female: 23-28"
Life Expectancy
10-17 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #32
Above Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Hound Group
Originally bred for Desert hunters in the Fertile Crescent, Salukis served ancient nobility as swift pursuit hounds for gazelle and hare hunting across vast sandy terrains
Popularity
#120
Less common breed
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 23"-28" |
| Female Height | 23"-28" |
| Male Weight | 40-65 lbs |
| Female Weight | 40-65 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 1/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include $2000-3000 for purebred puppy. Monthly expenses cover premium food ($60-80), preventive care ($40-60), and potential medical costs. Annual veterinary care averages $500-800.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Dignified and independent-minded, Salukis combine gentle affection with reserved elegance. Their high energy requires proper outlets, while their hunting instincts influence social behavior. Shows devotion to family but maintains independent nature.
Social Needs
Moderately social breed that bonds closely with family but remains aloof with strangers. Tolerates being alone well if properly exercised. Gets along with other dogs but has strong prey drive.
Breed Overview
Graceful and swift, Salukis embody elegance with their long, slender build and silky coat. Their refined features include a narrow head, long legs, and deep chest, perfectly designed for high-speed pursuit. These aristocratic sighthounds combine dignified bearing with remarkable athleticism, showcasing both strength and delicacy in their fluid movements.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Elegant and graceful
- ✓ Athletic and swift
- ✓ Low grooming needs
- ✓ Quiet and clean
- ✓ Loyal to family
Cons
- ✗ Strong prey drive
- ✗ Independent nature
- ✗ Needs secure fencing
- ✗ Challenging to train
- ✗ Requires extensive exercise
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Gentle, Dignified, Independent-Minded |
| Energy Level | Energetic |
| Trainability | Independent |
| Grooming Needs | Occasional Bath/Brush |
| Shedding | Occasional |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Requires 60-90 minutes of daily exercise, including sprinting in secure areas and long walks. High-intensity activities should be balanced with moderate exercise. Salukis need safe spaces to run at full speed.
Diet & Nutrition
Requires 2-3 cups of high-quality dog food daily, divided into two meals. Athletic build demands protein-rich diet. Consider supplements for joint health and maintain consistent feeding schedule.
Feed 2-3 cups premium dog food daily, split into two meals. Athletic breeds benefit from high-protein formulas. Consider raw or fresh food options. Monitor weight and adjust portions based on activity level.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Best suited for homes with large, securely fenced yards. Adapts well to various climates but needs indoor comfort. Requires space for stretching and running.
Requires large, securely fenced outdoor space for running. Minimum yard size of 1/4 acre recommended. Adapts to indoor living but needs room to stretch and move freely.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Noble hunting hounds of the Middle East, Salukis accompanied royalty for thousands of years. Revered in ancient Egypt and throughout the Fertile Crescent, these dogs were prized for their ability to pursue game across vast desert landscapes.
Historical Purpose
Desert hunters in the Fertile Crescent, Salukis served ancient nobility as swift pursuit hounds for gazelle and hare hunting across vast sandy terrains.
Fun Fact
Salukis were so valued in ancient Egypt that they were often mummified like pharaohs upon death.
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Requires secure fencing due to prey drive. Regular exercise essential. Gentle grooming needed. Temperature sensitivity demands indoor comfort.