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hound
Middle East
AKC Recognized

Saluki

gentle
dignified
independent
reserved
devoted
aloof

The Saluki is one of the oldest dog breeds, dating back thousands of years to ancient Egypt and the Middle East. They are elegant sighthounds known for their grace, speed, and independent nature. They are devoted to their families but aloof with strangers.

Key Stats

Weight

35-65 lbs

Height

21-28"

Lifespan

10-17 yrs

4/5

Energy

4/5

Is This Breed Right For You?

Lifestyle Fit
Apartment Living
2/5
First-Time Owners
1/5
Being Left Alone
4/5
Family Fit
Good with Kids
3/5
Good with Dogs
4/5
Good with Cats
1/5
Care Commitment
Grooming Needs
2/5
Shedding Level
2/5
Trainability
2/5
Large Size
60+ min/day exercise
single coat

Origin & History

Salukis are among the most ancient breeds, depicted in Egyptian tombs from 2100 BC. They were treasured by Arab nobility and considered sacred. They were never sold, only given as gifts. The AKC recognized them in 1929.

Traits & Characteristics

Individual dogs may vary from breed-typical traits

Family & Social

Family Affection
4/5
Good with Kids
3/5
Good with Dogs
4/5
Stranger Friendly
2/5

Personality

Energy Level
4/5
Playfulness
3/5
Trainability
2/5
Intelligence
4/5

Physical Traits

Shedding
2/5
Grooming Needs
2/5
Drooling
1/5
Barking
1/5

Adaptability

Apartment Living
2/5
First-Time Owners
1/5
Cold Tolerance
2/5
Heat Tolerance
4/5

Health & Wellness

Key health information for Saluki owners

Health Screening

  • Hip & Elbow Evaluation
  • Cardiac Exam
  • Eye Certification

Exercise Needs

  • 60+ minutes daily
  • Mental stimulation important
  • High energy breed

Watch For

  • Cardiomyopathy
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Anesthesia Sensitivity

Track Saluki health conditions

Get alerts for breed-specific health screenings

Care Guide

Everything you need to know about caring for a Saluki

Grooming

weekly

Exercise

60+ min/day

Training

Moderate

Health

Generally Good

Training Your Saluki

Training Approach

Use positive reinforcement with patience. Accept their independent nature. They are sensitive and don't respond to harsh methods. Keep training interesting.

Training Tips

  • Be patient and positive
  • Accept their independence
  • They are sensitive
  • Keep training interesting
  • Recall is very challenging

Common Challenges

  • Extremely independent
  • Strong prey drive
  • Difficult to train off-leash recall
  • Can be aloof

Is a Saluki Right For You?

Great Match If...

  • You have other dogs
  • You're active and outdoorsy
  • You want a loyal companion

Think Twice If...

  • You live in a small space
  • You want a low-energy dog

Ready to welcome a Saluki?

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Frequently Asked Questions

Salukis are one of the oldest known dog breeds, dating back at least 5,000 years. They are depicted in Egyptian tombs from 2100 BC. They are considered among the most ancient breeds.

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