Saluki
Breed Description

The Saluki is known by several names that reflect its ancient heritage and widespread influence throughout the Middle East and beyond. Most commonly referred to as the Persian Greyhound, this designation speaks to both its geographical origins and its remarkable speed. The breed is also called the Gazelle Hound, a name earned through centuries of hunting swift desert gazelles. In Arabic-speaking regions, the Saluki is known as "El Hor," meaning "the noble one," while some refer to it as the Royal Dog of Egypt, acknowledging its favored status among ancient pharaohs. The Arabian Hound is another regional variation, and in some historical texts, the breed appears as the Tazi, particularly in references from Central Asian regions.

The Saluki presents an extraordinary vision of grace and refinement that has remained virtually unchanged for thousands of years. This ancient breed embodies the perfect synthesis of form and function, with every aspect of its anatomy designed for speed, endurance, and agility across desert terrain. Standing between 23 to 28 inches at the shoulder, the Saluki displays significant variation in size, with males typically larger and more substantial than females. Despite this size range, all Salukis share the distinctive silhouette that has captivated humans since antiquity: a lean, elongated form that suggests both power and delicacy in equal measure.

The head of the Saluki is long and narrow, displaying the aristocratic refinement that characterizes the breed. The skull is moderately wide between the ears, tapering gradually to create an elegant wedge shape. The stop is minimal, creating a smooth transition from skull to muzzle that enhances the breed's streamlined appearance. Dark to hazel eyes, large and oval in shape, convey an expression of dignity mixed with gentle melancholy that has inspired poets and artists throughout history. The ears are long and mobile, covered with silky hair that can extend several inches beyond the leather, creating a distinctive framing effect around the face. When alert, the ears lift slightly at the base while the tips remain pendant, giving the Saluki an appearance of attentive nobility.

The body structure of the Saluki represents the pinnacle of sighthound evolution. The neck is long, supple, and well-muscled, flowing smoothly into shoulders that are sloping and well laid back. The chest is deep and moderately narrow, providing ample room for heart and lungs while maintaining the aerodynamic profile essential for high-speed pursuit. The back is fairly broad, with muscles that are flat rather than bulging, contributing to the breed's remarkable flexibility. The loin shows a gentle arch, providing the spring and propulsion necessary for the double-suspension gallop that allows Salukis to reach speeds approaching 43 miles per hour. The croup slopes gently, and the tail, which is long and naturally carried in a curve, serves as a rudder during high-speed turns.

The legs of the Saluki deserve special attention as masterpieces of canine engineering. The forelegs are straight and long, with flat bone that appears almost delicate but possesses surprising strength. The hindquarters display powerful yet lean musculature, with well-bent stifles and hocks set low to the ground. The feet are of moderate length, with toes that are long and well-arched, creating a distinctive hare-foot shape. Between the toes grows protective hair that shields the foot pads from hot sand and rough terrain. This unique foot structure, combined with the breed's light, springy gait, allows the Saluki to traverse surfaces that would challenge many other breeds.

The coat of the Saluki comes in two distinct varieties: smooth and feathered. The feathered variety, which is more common, displays silky feathering on the ears, tail, backs of the thighs, and sometimes between the toes. The smooth variety lacks this feathering but is identical in all other respects. The body coat in both varieties is smooth, soft, and silky to the touch, lying close to the skin without any wooly undercoat. This single coat structure reflects the breed's desert origins, where excessive coat would be a liability in extreme heat. The Saluki appears in a remarkable range of colors and patterns, including white, cream, fawn, golden, red, grizzle and tan, black and tan, tricolor, and various combinations thereof. This color diversity is greater than in almost any other breed, reflecting the Saluki's widespread distribution across different regions and cultures.

American Kennel Club (AKC)

The AKC standard for the Saluki emphasizes the breed's grace, symmetry, and great speed and endurance coupled with strength and activity. The general appearance should be that of grace and symmetry, showing great speed and endurance with the strength to enable it to kill gazelle or other quarry over deep sand or rocky mountain terrain. Height ranges from 23 to 28 inches at the shoulder with bitches considerably smaller than dogs. The expression should be dignified and gentle with deep, faithful, far-seeing eyes. Gait should be light and effortless with the appearance of floating over the ground.

Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)

The FCI standard No. 269 classifies the Saluki in Group 10 (Sighthounds), Section 1 (Long-haired or fringed Sighthounds). The standard describes a dog that gives an impression of grace and symmetry and of great speed and endurance coupled with strength and activity. Smooth varieties and feathered varieties are both acceptable. The standard emphasizes that the whole appearance of this breed should give the impression of grace and symmetry and of great speed and endurance. The temperament is described as reserved with strangers but not nervous or aggressive, dignified, independent, and very gentle.

United Kennel Club (UKC)

The UKC recognizes the Saluki in the Sighthound Group. The UKC standard emphasizes that the breed should present a graceful picture of speed, endurance, and strength. The standard notes that the Saluki should never appear coarse or heavy, and that elegance and functional ability are of equal importance. The breed should display a gentle, dignified manner with a somewhat aloof attitude toward strangers. The standard specifically mentions that both smooth and feathered varieties are equally correct.

Other Organizations

The Kennel Club (UK) standard closely aligns with the FCI standard, emphasizing the breed's ancient heritage and functional abilities. The Canadian Kennel Club follows similar guidelines, placing the Saluki in the Hound Group. Various Middle Eastern countries have their own traditional standards that often focus more on hunting ability than conformation, though these are gradually being harmonized with international standards while respecting the breed's regional variations and cultural significance.

The Saluki stands as one of humanity's oldest known breeds of domesticated dogs, with a history stretching back at least 6,000 years to ancient Mesopotamia. Archaeological evidence, including rock art from central Arabia dating to 8000-10000 BCE, depicts dogs with the distinctive long ears and slender build characteristic of the Saluki. Ancient Sumerian carvings from 7000 BCE show similar dogs, and by 3500 BCE, clear representations of Saluki-type dogs appear in Egyptian tomb paintings. The breed's name itself may derive from the ancient Arabian city of Saluk, or from the Arabic word "saluqi," though its etymology remains debated among historians.

In ancient Egypt, the Saluki held a position of extraordinary reverence, often appearing in tomb paintings alongside pharaohs and nobles. These dogs were so valued that they were frequently mummified upon death, with elaborate burial ceremonies befitting their status. The Egyptians called them "royal dogs of Egypt" and believed they possessed divine qualities. Salukis were never sold but only given as precious gifts to demonstrate highest honor and friendship. The breed's image appears on numerous artifacts from the Middle Kingdom period, including pottery, jewelry, and carved reliefs, always depicted with the characteristic grace and elegance that defines the breed today.

Throughout the Islamic world, the Saluki occupied a unique position among dogs. While Islamic tradition generally considers dogs unclean, the Saluki was exempted from this classification, deemed "el hor" (the noble one) and permitted to share the Bedouin tents. This special status arose from the breed's essential role in desert survival, where their hunting prowess provided fresh meat in harsh environments where livestock was scarce. Bedouin tribes developed distinct strains of Saluki, each adapted to local prey and terrain, carefully maintaining bloodlines through oral traditions that stretched back countless generations. These desert Salukis were trained to hunt in cooperation with falcons, a partnership that remains celebrated in Middle Eastern culture.

The Crusades marked the first significant introduction of Salukis to European consciousness, though systematic importation didn't begin until much later. Medieval manuscripts occasionally reference swift Eastern hounds brought back by returning crusaders, but these remained curiosities rather than establishing breeding populations. The breed's true arrival in the Western world began in the 19th century when British officers and diplomats stationed in the Middle East became captivated by these elegant hounds. Florence Amherst imported the first Arabian Salukis to England in 1895 from the kennels of Prince Abdullah of Jordan, establishing the foundation of Western Saluki breeding.

The early 20th century saw increased Western interest in the Saluki, particularly following World War I when British military personnel brought dogs back from Mesopotamia and Palestine. The Honorable Florence Amherst, along with Brigadier General Frederick Lance, worked tirelessly to establish the breed in England. In 1923, the Saluki or Gazelle Hound Club was formed in England, and The Kennel Club officially recognized the breed that same year. The breed standard they developed attempted to encompass the natural variation found across the Saluki's vast historical range while maintaining the essential characteristics that defined the breed for millennia.

The Saluki's journey to America began slightly later, with the first documented imports arriving in 1927. The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1929, though it remained rare for many decades. Post-World War II saw renewed interest, with servicemen who had encountered the breed in North Africa and the Middle East seeking to establish breeding programs. The Saluki Club of America, founded in 1927, worked to preserve the breed's unique characteristics while adapting to American dog culture. Throughout the latter half of the 20th century, dedicated breeders worked to maintain the Saluki's ancient type while ensuring genetic diversity through careful importation of dogs from the breed's native regions.

The primary function of the Saluki throughout its extensive history has been as a coursing hound, specifically developed to hunt by sight rather than scent. In their native Middle Eastern territories, Salukis were essential partners in securing protein in environments where game was scarce and elusive. Their exceptional vision, capable of detecting movement at extraordinary distances across open terrain, combined with their remarkable speed and endurance, made them invaluable for pursuing desert prey including gazelles, hares, foxes, and even the occasional jackal. The breed's hunting style involves spotting prey at distance, pursuing at high speed, and either catching the quarry directly or driving it toward waiting hunters.

Traditional hunting methods with Salukis varied by region and quarry but often involved sophisticated cooperation between dog, hunter, and sometimes hawks or falcons. In falconry partnerships, the Saluki would track and flush game while the falcon would strike from above, with both animals working in choreographed harmony perfected over generations. Bedouin hunters developed intricate training methods passed down through oral tradition, teaching young Salukis to respond to subtle voice commands and hand signals across vast distances. The dogs learned to hunt silently until the crucial moment, preserving energy for the explosive sprint required to overtake swift desert prey.

Modern Salukis in their countries of origin continue to fulfill traditional hunting roles, though urbanization and changing lifestyles have reduced this practice. In regions where traditional hunting remains legal and culturally significant, Salukis demonstrate the same abilities that made them invaluable to their ancient handlers. Contemporary Middle Eastern hunters report that well-trained Salukis can reach speeds exceeding 40 miles per hour and maintain pursuit over several miles of difficult terrain. The breed's unique double-suspension gallop, where all four feet leave the ground twice during each stride cycle, enables them to cover enormous amounts of ground with remarkable efficiency.

In Western countries, the Saluki has successfully transitioned to competitive sports that showcase their natural abilities. Lure coursing has become particularly popular, allowing Salukis to pursue artificial lures across open fields in a safe, controlled environment that mimics traditional hunting. These events demonstrate the breed's incredible acceleration, agility at high speed, and intense focus when in pursuit mode. Competitive straight racing and oval track racing also provide outlets for the Saluki's speed, though many breed enthusiasts prefer lure coursing as it better demonstrates the breed's natural hunting style and decision-making abilities.

Contemporary Salukis serve diverse roles beyond their hunting heritage. Many excel as therapy dogs, their calm, gentle nature making them particularly suitable for work with elderly or anxious individuals. Their quiet demeanor and elegant appearance create a calming presence in therapeutic settings. Some Salukis participate in agility competitions, though their independent nature and sighthound sensibilities require patient, creative training approaches. The breed's exceptional athleticism has led to participation in newer dog sports like fast CAT (Coursing Ability Test), where they consistently rank among the fastest breeds. Additionally, Salukis serve as cultural ambassadors, appearing at educational events to teach about Middle Eastern history and the ancient relationship between humans and dogs.

The behavioral characteristics of the Saluki reflect millennia of selective breeding for specific traits valued by desert nomads and ancient nobles alike. At the core of Saluki behavior lies an intriguing paradox: they are simultaneously independent yet devoted, aloof yet affectionate, calm yet capable of explosive action. This complex temperament requires understanding and appreciation rather than attempts at modification. Salukis possess an aristocratic bearing that manifests in their daily behavior, moving through their environment with measured grace and maintaining a certain emotional reserve that can be misinterpreted as disinterest by those unfamiliar with the breed.

The independent nature of the Saluki stems from their historical role as hunters who needed to make split-second decisions at great distances from their handlers. This self-reliance manifests in modern Salukis as a thoughtful, contemplative approach to training and commands. Unlike breeds developed for close cooperation with humans, Salukis consider requests rather than automatically complying. They exhibit what many describe as selective hearing, particularly when engaged in activities they find more interesting than their owner's wishes. This isn't defiance but rather an expression of the independent judgment that enabled their ancestors to successfully pursue game across challenging terrain without constant human direction.

Socially, Salukis display a marked differentiation in their behavior toward family versus strangers. With their chosen people, they can be surprisingly affectionate, though their demonstrations of love tend toward subtle gestures rather than exuberant displays. A Saluki might express affection by quietly leaning against their owner's leg, resting their head on a lap, or simply choosing to remain in the same room. These understated expressions of attachment are deeply meaningful within the context of the breed's reserved nature. With strangers, Salukis typically maintain polite distance, neither aggressive nor welcoming, observing newcomers with watchful eyes until determining whether interaction is warranted.

The prey drive in Salukis remains remarkably strong despite generations of companion breeding. Movement triggers an instantaneous response that can transform a lounging Saluki into a focused predator within seconds. This behavior extends beyond obvious prey animals; plastic bags blown by wind, leaves skittering across pavement, or distant joggers can all activate the chase instinct. Once engaged, a Saluki in pursuit mode becomes notably single-minded, often unable to hear or unwilling to respond to calls. This characteristic makes off-leash exercise in unsecured areas extremely risky, as even well-trained Salukis may be unable to override their instinct when prey is sighted.

In the home environment, Salukis typically exhibit cat-like behavior, selecting favored resting spots that offer both comfort and strategic viewing positions. They often prefer elevated surfaces like couches or beds where they can survey their domain while resting. Despite their size, many Salukis attempt to curl into impossibly small spaces, a behavior possibly inherited from ancestors who sought shelter in minimal desert shade. They demonstrate fastidious cleanliness, carefully avoiding muddy or wet areas when possible and grooming themselves with deliberate attention. This natural cleanliness extends to house training, which Salukis typically master quickly due to their inherent desire for cleanliness in their living space.

The Saluki's activity pattern follows a distinctive rhythm of intense activity alternating with extended rest periods. During active phases, they display remarkable athleticism, running with obvious joy and performing impressive leaps and rapid direction changes. These bursts of energy, often occurring in early morning or evening, can include playful behaviors like the "Saluki 500" - wild sprints around the yard or house accompanied by play bows and aerial acrobatics. Following these energetic displays, Salukis typically settle into prolonged rest periods, conserving energy in a manner reminiscent of their desert ancestors who needed to preserve strength for hunting in harsh conditions. Understanding and accommodating this natural rhythm is essential for maintaining a Saluki's physical and mental well-being.

Integrating a Saluki into family life requires understanding and respecting the breed's unique characteristics and ancient heritage. These dogs form deep, lasting bonds with their families, though they express their devotion differently than more demonstrative breeds. In the family hierarchy, Salukis often position themselves as gentle observers, participating in family activities on their own terms rather than demanding constant attention. They tend to form particularly strong attachments to one or two family members while maintaining affectionate relationships with all household members. This selective bonding reflects their historical relationship with individual hunters or handlers rather than large groups.

With children, Salukis generally display remarkable gentleness and patience, though their interaction style may differ from typical family dogs. They rarely engage in rough-and-tumble play, preferring instead to participate in activities that respect their dignity and physical sensitivity. Young children must be taught to approach Salukis calmly and respectfully, as sudden movements or loud noises may cause these sensitive dogs to withdraw. Older children who understand the breed's nature often form wonderful relationships with Salukis, sharing quiet companionship and enjoying activities like supervised running games in secure areas. The breed's natural reserve means they rarely overwhelm children with excessive enthusiasm, making them suitable for families seeking a calmer canine presence.

Multi-pet households with Salukis require careful consideration of the breed's strong prey drive and pack dynamics. With other dogs, particularly other sighthounds, Salukis typically coexist peacefully, often forming close bonds with canine housemates. They appreciate the company of dogs with similar energy patterns and play styles. However, introducing Salukis to households with small pets requires extreme caution. While some Salukis learn to accept cats as family members, especially when raised together from puppyhood, the sight of a running cat can trigger chase instincts even in well-socialized individuals. Small pets like rabbits, guinea pigs, or birds should be strictly separated from Salukis, as the breed's hunting instincts remain strong regardless of training.

The Saluki's adaptation to family routines demonstrates their intelligence and sensitivity to human patterns. They quickly learn household schedules, anticipating regular events like meal times, walks, and the return of family members from work or school. This awareness extends to emotional atmospheres; Salukis are remarkably attuned to family moods and may become anxious in households with frequent conflict or tension. They thrive in calm, predictable environments where their sensitive nature is respected. During family gatherings or parties, Salukis often retreat to quiet spaces, observing activities from a distance rather than actively participating in boisterous celebrations.

Space and exercise requirements significantly impact the Saluki's integration into family life. While they can adapt to various living situations, including apartments, they require regular opportunities for free running in safely enclosed areas. A securely fenced yard becomes almost essential, as Salukis need space to express their natural running behaviors. Fencing must be at least six feet high and checked regularly for potential escape routes, as motivated Salukis can jump surprisingly high and squeeze through seemingly impossible gaps. Families must commit to providing appropriate exercise outlets, understanding that a brief walk around the block cannot satisfy a Saluki's physical needs. Regular visits to enclosed dog parks or fields where the dog can run freely are essential for physical and mental health.

The Saluki benefits from thousands of years of natural selection for functional soundness, resulting in a generally healthy breed with fewer genetic issues than many modern purebreds. Their development through practical breeding for hunting ability rather than aesthetic extremes has preserved a robust constitution. However, like all breeds, Salukis have certain health considerations that potential owners should understand. The breed's unique physiology, adapted for speed and desert survival, creates specific veterinary considerations that differ from typical dog breeds. Their low body fat percentage, efficient metabolism, and sensitive nature all influence their health management throughout their typical 12-14 year lifespan.

Cardiac health in Salukis requires special attention, as they can be affected by various heart conditions including cardiomyopathy and heart murmurs. While not extremely common, these conditions occur frequently enough that cardiac screening is recommended for breeding dogs. Salukis' athletic hearts are naturally larger than those of similar-sized dogs, which can sometimes lead to misdiagnosis by veterinarians unfamiliar with sighthound physiology. Regular cardiac evaluations by veterinarians experienced with sighthounds help distinguish between normal athletic adaptations and potential problems. Early detection of cardiac issues through appropriate screening allows for management strategies that can significantly extend quality of life.

The Saluki's unique physiology affects their response to anesthesia and certain medications. Their low body fat percentage and efficient liver metabolism mean they process drugs differently than other breeds. Standard anesthetic protocols designed for average dogs can result in prolonged recovery times or adverse reactions in Salukis. Veterinarians experienced with sighthounds typically use modified protocols with reduced dosages and specific drug choices. Owners should ensure their veterinary team understands these breed-specific considerations before any procedure requiring anesthesia. Additionally, Salukis may be sensitive to certain flea and tick preventatives, requiring careful product selection and dosage adjustment.

Autoimmune conditions occasionally affect Salukis, with thyroid disorders being the most commonly reported. Hypothyroidism can develop in middle-aged dogs, causing symptoms like lethargy, weight gain, and coat changes. Regular thyroid screening helps identify issues early when treatment is most effective. Some Salukis also develop autoimmune hemolytic anemia or immune-mediated thrombocytopenia, conditions where the immune system attacks the body's own blood cells. While these conditions are serious, they remain relatively uncommon and can often be managed successfully with appropriate veterinary care. The breed's overall immune system is typically robust, likely due to their diverse genetic heritage.

Nutritional management plays a crucial role in maintaining Saluki health throughout their lives. These dogs typically require high-quality protein to maintain their lean muscle mass, but their caloric needs vary significantly based on activity level. Active Salukis may need surprisingly large amounts of food despite their slender appearance, while less active individuals require careful portion control to prevent weight gain. The breed's deep chest makes them susceptible to bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus), necessitating feeding practices that minimize risk: multiple small meals rather than one large feeding, avoiding exercise immediately after eating, and using elevated feeders for some individuals. Some Salukis display food sensitivities or allergies, particularly to common proteins or grains, requiring dietary adjustment to maintain optimal health.

Preventive care considerations for Salukis extend beyond standard veterinary protocols. Their thin skin and minimal body fat make them prone to injuries from seemingly minor incidents. Cuts and tears that might be superficial in other breeds can require suturing in Salukis. They are also sensitive to temperature extremes, requiring protection from both cold and excessive heat. In cold climates, Salukis benefit from coats during winter walks, while in hot climates, exercise must be carefully timed to avoid heat stress. Regular dental care is essential, as Salukis can be prone to periodontal disease. Their sensitivity often makes them cooperative patients for teeth brushing when introduced gradually and positively.

If you're looking to adopt a Persian Greyhound, consider contacting these breed-specific rescue organizations:

"Don't Shop... Please Adopt" - There are many wonderful Persian Greyhounds waiting for their forever homes.

Due to the changing nature of rescue organizations, please verify website functionality before contacting. For additional resources, search Petfinder.com for "Persian Greyhound" or "Saluki" to find available dogs in your area.