Saluki
Country/Date of Origin: Iran/3000 BC
The Saluki may very well be the oldest purebred dog in existence. The likeness of a breed resembling it can be found on the carvings made in Sumeria, nine thousand years ago. Mummified remains of Salukis have been found lying alongside the remains of Egyptian pharaohs. However, the breed was preserved by the Arab peoples, who valued swiftness in both horse and hound. The swift Saluki was used then and now to run down fleet game such as rabbit, hare, gazelle, and antelope. The Saluki made its way to America and received AKC recognition in 1927.
Other Names Body Type Personality Coat Health Concerns
Back to TopGazelle Hound
AKC Group: Hound
Breed Club: Saluki Club of America
Rescue Club: Mary Siegel, 701 N Birch Avenue, Sand Spring, OK 74063-7405 (Email:helpafs@earthlink.net)
Back to TopBody Type:
- A streamlined greyhound-like body built for running. Feathering adds a bit of glamour
- Height: 22-28 inches (at shoulder)
- Weight: 44-46 pounds
- Hanging ears are not altered
- Long, naturally curved tail is not altered. It acts like a rudder when dog turns at high speed
Personality:
- Regal and very aloof. Never fawning or begging attention
- Ignores strangers
- A one person or one family dog
- Shyness is common in Salukis
Coat:
- Two varieties: the longhaired most often referred to as the Saluki has feathering on the legs, ears, and tail. The smooth haired variety sometimes called Sloughi is without feathering
- Allowable colors are solids: white, cream, fawn, golden, red, grizzle and tan. Patterned coats of tricolor or and black and tan are also permitted
- Low grooming requirements
- Feet are long haired between the toes, a protection against burning sands
Health Concerns:
- Sensitivity to many drugs, particularly anesthetics
- May develop skin allergies when exposed to the chemicals in flea collars, insecticides, and tick dips
- Fragile leg bones may break when running or turning at high speed
Tasty Tidbits:
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