Read About Saluki

The beautiful and graceful Saluki is also known as the Egyptian royal dog; in Arabian countries, they are call tazi, or "one who gallops." Here's everything you need to know about this dog breed.

Quick Summary:

1. Size:

   Medium-Large dogs

2. Weight:

   44-66 lbs.

3. Coat:

   Overall smooth and silky, with some longer hair on the ears, and feathering on the legs and sometimes shoulders.

4. Shedding:

   Low shedders

5. Temperament:

   Salukis are loyal and active, yet gentle dogs. Intrepid hunters. Very affectionate with their families, but a little cautious around strangers.

6. Obedience:

   Salukis naturally hunt prey and chase, so that's easy for them to learn. They take well to obedience training, which they generally need from a young age to socialize well.

7. Ease of Training:

   No more difficult to train than the average sighthound. Distraction is easy for these sensitive dogs, so training needs to be gentle and persistent.

8. Way with Children:

   Excellent with children, as they adore attention.

- Facts

1. AKC Group/Date Admitted:

   Hounds/1927

2. Size & Weight:

   22-28"; 44-66 lbs.

3. Coat:

   Overall smooth and silky, with some longer hair on the ears, and feathering on the legs and sometimes shoulders.

4. Head & Muzzle:

   Long, slim, pretty heads with floppy, furry ears.

5. Body:

   Salukis are slim, graceful dogs in the sighthound tradition. Tight, sleek bodies top beautiful, elegant legs.

6. Colors:

   Salukis come in all colors, but are often seen in light shades like white, cream, fawn, golden and red, and combinations like grizzle and tan, and black and tan. They also show up in tricolor (white, black and tan) variations.

7. Life Expectancy:

   12-14 years

8. Popularity:

   Salukis are one the AKC registered dog breeds in the low 100's.

9. Habitat:

   While Salukis need some free running and a good bit of exercise, they settle down and are quiet house dogs.

- Origins

1. Country of Origin:

   Salukis originated from a number of sites in the Middle East.

2. Historical Information:

   In Egypt, Salukis were venerated and mummified along with their royal masters. Bedouins consider them the only "clean" dog. Not imported to England until the mid-19th C., they were originally called "Persian Greyhounds" because the first examples of the breed came from their (modern Iran).

- Defining Characteristics

1. Temperament:

   Salukis are loyal and active, yet gentle dogs. Intrepid hunters. Very affectionate with their families, but a little cautious around strangers.

2. Behavior:

3. Habits:

   Although they are not demonstrative dogs, they bond closely to their owners and can get depressed if separated. The breed can also be picky eaters, but contact your vet if the dog refused food for more than 48 hours.

- Concerns

1. Health Issues:

   Salukis can be sensitive to anesthesia, and can be inflicted with bloat or hip dysplasia. Less commonly, they can be subject to cataracts, skin issues, ear infections, and nervous system disabilities.

2. Exercise Needs:

   Salukis need a great deal of exercise.

3. Grooming Needs:

   Fairly minimal, but they're quite soft and a pleasure to brush.

4. Travel Needs:

   Large, a little gangly, and sensitive, Salukis need to be treated with great care during transport.

5. Getting Along With Other Pets and Children:

   Fine with other dogs; socialization with other animals is questionable. Excellent with children, as they adore attention.

- How to Choose

1. What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:

   Clear eyes, pretty coats, and alert, intelligent faces.

2. What You Will Need For A New Puppy:

   An appropriate crate, door gates and backyard dog fencing will keep him safe. Lots of toys and room to run will keep him happy.

3. Puppy-Proofing your House:

   Puppies are small and explore a lot. Be sure that there is anything that your dog can get into, pull out, or chew is safe for him.