Other names/Nicknames:
- Gazelle Hound
Country/Date of origin:
- Iran
- 3,000 BC
Height:
- 22 to 28 inches
Weight:
- 44 to 46 pounds
Personality:
- Regal and very aloof.
- Never fawning or begging attention.
- Ignores strangers.
- A one-person or one-family dog.
- Shyness is common in Salukis.
History:
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 9,000 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 the United States and received American Kennel Club (AKC) recognition in 1927.
Body Type:
- A streamlined, greyhound-like body built for running.
- Feathering adds a bit of glamour.
- Hanging ears are not altered.
- Long, naturally-curved tail is not altered. It acts like a rudder when dog turns at high speed.
Coat:
- Two varieties are available. The long-haired, 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 tri-color and black and tan are also permitted.
- Low grooming requirements.
- Feet have long hair between the toes, which is a protection against burning sands.
Health and Wellness:
- 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.
What you should know:
- The only dog that escapes traditional Muslim prejudices against the species. The Saluki was considered a sacred dog sent by Allah.
- Whenever one sees the word dog in the Bible, it refers to the Saluki.
- The standoffish Saluki can be your best friend, only in their eyes it is a bond between equals.
- Walking gait is a high-stepping prance.
- Thrives in hot, dry climates.
- There is a considerable size difference between males and females.
