The Saluki is a sighthound bred especially for grace and speed. Although the greyhound is widely viewed as being the fastest dog breed with a top speed of around 45 mph, the Saluki is said to be faster, with top speeds of 48 mph. Testing this has proved difficult as Salukis show no interest in electric hares and therefore won't race greyhounds on a track. However, as their original use was for hunting desert gazelles with top speeds of up to 50 mph, the speed claim could be true.
Temperament
A very fast and agile dog, the Saluki is a very regal and often reserved in the world of canines. He is very independent and can is smart enough to manipulate his owner to get what he wants, a feature that makes it imperative that an assertive and confident owner with experience of dog ownership and handling be his guide. The Saluki should never be left alone in an area without adequate fencing, as he can bound and run with mesmerizing ability. These are dogs that need to be socialized early in puppyhood in order to promote their self confidence and gregarious personality. They are full of vigor and vitality when outdoors, and their running and jumping agility is exciting to behold, however when indoors they are quiet, calm, and peaceful. This is an animal that likes to be comfortable, but also needs plenty of exercise to release all of that energy. The Saluki is not a shadow dog that will follow you everywhere you go. However, he is still loyal and will show a steady affection to his own family.
The Saluki should get on well with children that are older and gentle, but will not respond well to being handled roughly or jumped on, as smaller children may have the propensity to do. They are generally accepting of other dogs, but its best not to trust them much around smaller animals because of their high prey drive. He is usually aloof and reserved around strangers. Cautious and protective, they can make good watchdogs. This breed can present a bit of a chore to train, but their owners should consistently correct him verbally, as they are sensitive dogs.
Formal Breed Standard
History and Origins
The Saluki has historically served as a courser, a speedy hunting dog that operated in packs. They often hunted in tandem with falcons which locate the prey and for the dogs to run down.
Salukis appear on Egyptian tombs from 2100 B.C. The dogs were so esteemed that they were often mummified like the bodies of the Pharaohs themselves. Numerous Saluki remains have been found in the ancient tombs of the Upper Nile region.
The name 'saluki' comes from the name of the ancient Arabian city 'Saluq'.
In Muslim cultures, dogs are often seen as unclean. A saluki, however, is given a different status by the Arab culture. The breed is treasured by the Bedouin for the white spot on the dog's chest. The Bedouin value them, breeding them for both beauty and hunting qualities. A saluki, instead of being viewed as unclean, often sleeps in tents with their owners, to be protected from the heat of the day and the cold of the night.
Salukis were first brought into England in 1840. There was no real interest however, until the Hon. Florence Amherst imported the first Arabian Saluki in 1895 from the kennels of Prince Abdulla in Transjordan. King Abdullah's hounds were probably originally from Kurdish areas of Syria.
As is the case with some other pedigree breeds in the United States, including the Basenji and Portuguese Podengo, the current domestic population of Salukis is descended from a small number of founders introduced into the country within the last 100 years, and must be carefully mated to avoid inbreeding. However, the original dogs imported into the US came from throughout the whole Middle East, a vast geographical area, unlike most other breeds that come from very small areas, so, worldwide, Salukis have the largest genetic base among purebreds. Recently, the AKC (American Kennel Club) has allowed the third generation of COO (Country of Origin) salukis to be registered after inspections by recognized judges so the DNA base will broaden.
The Saluki is a sighthound that has been carefully bred for thousands of years to have a keenly developed hunting instinct. Populations of desert-bred Salukis used for hunting still exist in the Middle East. Its movement and outline are graceful, suggesting speed, endurance and strength. Its expression is dignified, aristocratic and regal. Large, oval, dark to hazel colored eyes give the Saluki a far-seeing, gentle expression.
Salukis are intuitive and intelligent. They become very devoted to their humans and prefer the companionship of their family to being left outdoors or in a kennel. Despite their unpampered nomadic history, Salukis appreciate luxury and physical comfort. They enjoy very vigorous outdoor activities as well as lying quietly on a soft bed indoors. Naturally clean, Salukis integrate easily into family life.
Size & Weight
23-28 inches and 40-65 lbs
Grooming Requirements
Occasional grooming to keep their coat from matting.
Exercise Needs
Saluki's will need someplace to really stretch their legs, and run free. Walks at the very least are mandatory, but not really adequate. They need to burn off energy.
Health Issues
The life expectancy of the Saluki is around 12-14 years, and there are a number of health problems to look out for with this breed. This includes thyroid problems, heart conditions, tumors, and sensitivity to drug and chemicals. The parents of the Saluki should have clearance in relation to heart conditions.
Trivia
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