Saluki
Updated December 2, 2025
The Saluki is one of the oldest known breeds of domesticated dog, with a history stretching back thousands of years. They are elegant, swift, and independent hunters who also form strong, loyal bonds with their families, making them cherished companions in the right homes.
Gentle, Intelligent, Independent, Loyal, Reserved
40-65 pounds
23-28 inches
10-17 years
White, Cream, Fawn, Golden, Red, Grizzle and Tan, Tricolor (White, Black and Tan), Black and Tan
At a Glance
Good with Kids
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About Saluki
The Saluki is one of the oldest known breeds of domesticated dog, with a history stretching back thousands of years. They are elegant, swift, and independent hunters who also form strong, loyal bonds with their families, making them cherished companions in the right homes.
What Makes Salukis Special
The Saluki is a graceful and athletic sighthound with a quiet and independent nature. They are loyal to their families but can be reserved with strangers. Their history as a hunter of swift prey is evident in their high energy and strong chase instinct.
Saluki History & Origin
The Saluki's origins trace back to the Fertile Crescent, where they were used by nomadic tribes for hunting. They are considered one of the most ancient dog breeds, with depictions found in ancient tombs and artifacts. They were the royal dogs of Egypt and were held in high esteem.
The Saluki has been a prized hunting hound in the Middle East for thousands of years.
They were used to hunt gazelle and other swift prey over long distances.
The breed was introduced to the Western world in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
The Saluki Club of America was founded in 1927, the same year the breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club.
Saluki Characteristics
Dogs are individuals and not all dogs, even those of the same breed, will exhibit all the same qualities.
Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Training Needs
Health Issues
Shedding Level
Saluki Appearance
The overall appearance of the Saluki is one of grace and symmetry, combined with speed and endurance. They have a lean, leggy build and a dignified expression.
They come in two coat varieties: feathered and smooth. The feathered variety has long, silky hair on the ears, tail, and sometimes the back of the legs.
Physical Features
Ears
Long and mobile, covered with long, silky feathering.
Eyes
Large, oval, and dark, conveying a gentle and far-seeing expression.
Nose
The nose is black or liver in color.
Coat & Build
Coat Length
The coat is short, soft, and silky. The feathered variety has longer hair on the ears and tail.
Coat Color
Salukis come in a wide range of colors, including white, cream, fawn, golden, red, grizzle and tan, tricolor (white, black and tan), and black and tan.
Tail
The tail is long, set low, and carried in a graceful curve, with feathering on the underside in the feathered variety.
Saluki Temperament
Salukis are known for their quiet and gentle nature, forming deep bonds with their families.
They can be reserved and aloof with strangers, and their independent spirit means they are not always the most obedient breed.
While they are loyal and affectionate with their family, they are not overly demonstrative.
Their high prey drive is a key aspect of their temperament, and they are likely to chase small animals.
They are sensitive dogs that thrive in a calm and peaceful environment.
Temperament Traits
Good With
Health
Salukis are generally a healthy breed with a long lifespan. However, like all breeds, they are prone to certain genetic health conditions. Responsible breeders will screen their stock for these issues.
Common Health Issues
Preventive Care
Regular veterinary check-ups, a high-quality diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and regular exercise are key to a Saluki's health. Screening for heart and thyroid issues is recommended.
How to Care for a Saluki
Salukis are elegant and athletic dogs that require regular exercise and a quiet home environment. Their grooming needs are minimal, but their independent nature can make training a challenge. They are generally healthy but can be prone to certain health conditions.
Grooming
The Saluki's smooth, silky coat is low-maintenance. The feathered variety requires brushing a few times a week to prevent tangles in the long hair on their ears and tail.
The smooth variety needs only occasional brushing to remove loose hair.
Bathing should be done as needed. Their ears should be checked and cleaned regularly to prevent infections.
Nail trimming is also important for their overall health and comfort.
Training
Training a Saluki can be challenging due to their independent and sometimes stubborn nature. They do not respond well to harsh training methods.
Positive reinforcement techniques, using praise and treats, are most effective.
Early socialization is crucial to help them become well-adjusted adults and to manage their high prey drive.
A secure, fenced area is essential for off-leash exercise, as they cannot be trusted to come back when they start to chase something.
Diet
A high-quality commercial or home-prepared diet suitable for their age, size, and activity level is recommended.
They can be picky eaters, so finding a food they enjoy may take some trial and error.
As they are a lean breed, it is important not to overfeed them to prevent obesity.
Fresh, clean water should always be available.
Exercise
Salukis have high exercise needs and require at least an hour of exercise daily.
They need opportunities to run freely in a large, securely fenced area.
Activities like lure coursing can be a great outlet for their natural instincts.
They also enjoy long walks on a leash and can be good jogging companions once they are fully grown.
Environment
Salukis are not well-suited for apartment living due to their need for space and exercise.
A home with a large, securely fenced yard is ideal.
They are sensitive to cold and appreciate a soft, warm place to rest.
They thrive in a calm household and can be stressed by a lot of noise and activity.
Living Conditions
Space Requirements
A home with a large, securely fenced yard is a necessity.
Climate Adaptability
They are adaptable but prefer warmer climates and are sensitive to the cold.
Apartment Living
Not suited for apartment life.
Best Suited For
Best suited for active owners who understand their unique temperament and exercise needs.
Training Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Salukis good family dogs?
Salukis can be good with older, considerate children, but they are generally not recommended for families with young children due to their sensitive and reserved nature.
How much do Salukis shed?
Salukis are a low-shedding breed.
How much exercise do Salukis need?
They are a high-energy breed and need at least an hour of exercise per day, including the opportunity to run at full speed in a secure area.
Are Salukis easy to train?
No, their independent nature makes them challenging to train. They require patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement.
Can Salukis live with cats?
Due to their high prey drive, Salukis are generally not recommended for homes with cats or other small pets.
Specialized Care Guides
Puppy Care
Early socialization is paramount. Gentle handling and positive training methods should be used from a young age.
Senior Care
As they age, their exercise may need to be modified. Regular vet check-ups are important to monitor for age-related health issues.
First-Time Owner Tips
Not generally recommended for first-time dog owners due to their independent nature and high exercise needs.
Looking for a Saluki?
Connect with responsible breeders, rescue organizations, and pet adoption services in your area.