The Saluki Dog
The Saluki dog originates from the Middle East dating back to antiquity. It is one of the oldest domesticated dogs. Evidence of
this breed can be found inside Egyptian tombs dating back thousands of years. The name comes from an ancient city of Arabia
that no longer exits. The Saluki is a handsome looking dog with a long narrow skull and
dark, deep set eyes. It has long ears that are covered with long silky hair. It has a noticeably deep chest and is built for
stamina. Its appearance gives the impression of grace, symmetry, speed, endurance and strength.
In ancient times it was an invaluable hunting companion. It was used to hunt gazelle, fox, and hares, which it would
outrun in any terrain and sometimes very harsh weather conditions. According to fundamental Islam, dogs are unclean.
Yet this essential hunter and dignified companion, considered a gift from Allah, was given special exemption and was
allowed to live in the homes of the faithful. The Saluki was introduced to Western Civilization around 1900. It was recognized
by the AKC in 1928.
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| Origin |
Middle East dating back to antiquity. |
| Original Use |
Gazelle, fox, and hare hunting |
| Use Today |
Companion, hare coursing |
| Temperament |
The Saluki is very devoted to its family, although it may not be overly demonstrative of its affection.
It is dignified, independent, and strong willed. It is sensitive and does not do well with rough play or hard correction. It is a special dog that may not be suitable for first time owners. |
| Acceptance of: |
Other Dogs - Below average |
| Other Pets - Not very accepting |
| Strangers - Average |
| Children - Good with older children
|
| Watchdog Ability |
Good |
| Guard dog Ability |
Below Average |
| Ease of Training |
Average, but requires consistent, fair, and loving obedience training. |
| Living Conditions |
Content to live outdoors in hot climates. In other climates, it does best when living indoors while having its exercise needs met outdoors. For sleeping it requires a soft bed or callouses can develop. |
| Exercise |
The Saluki dog was bred to hunt gazelle, so as you would expect, it requires a lot of daily exercise. |
| Coat |
It has a smooth, silky textured coat. It has feathering on the legs, back of the thighs and back of the tail.
Sometimes feathering may also exist on the thigh and shoulder. The breed also comes in a smooth coat variety that appears similar but does not have feathering. |
| Grooming |
Requires brushing about once a week; more frequently if it has a lot of feathering. |
| Colors |
The Saluki dog comes in a variety of colors: cream, white, golden red, black and tan, fawn, tricolor and black and tan. |
| Height and Weight |
Weight range is 30 to 60 pounds (13.6 to 27.2 kg) while the height range is 23 to 28 inches (58.4 to 71.1 cm). Variations may occur in individual animals. |
| Life Expectancy |
11 to 13cyears. |
| Group |
The AKC places the Saluki dog in the hound group. |
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