Choosing to add a furry friend to your growing household is a long-term commitment, and picking a breed that fits your lifestyle presents the key to a happy home. With over 160 American Kennel Club-recognized breeds, that decision can seem overwhelming. We’re here to help you meet the breed that’s right for you. If you’re looking for an easy trainable and intelligent pet for outdoor activity, find out everything you need to know about the Saluki!
- Quiet
- Reserved
- Friendly
- Easily trained
- Moderate grooming
Overview
Known as one of the first domesticated breeds, the Saluki hails from Egypt. Highly respected, they were actually mummified like the Pharaohs! Later brought to the Middle East to hunt down gazelles, these graceful-looking dogs have a lot of power built into them. Referred to as a reserved and quiet breed, the Saluki is sensitive and gentle.
Breed standards
- AKC group: Hound
- UKC group: Sighthound
- Average lifespan: 11-12 years
- Average size: 35-65 pounds
- Coat appearance: Smooth or feathered
- Coloration: White, cream, red, golden, tan, black and tan, tricolor
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Other identifiers: Similar to a Greyhound in body structure, slim, narrow head and muzzle, dark brown or liver nose, eyes are hazel, large and oval, long neck, long legs, short, fluffy ears, thick-haired feet, and long, feathered tail.
- Additional information: Pronounced sah-loo-key. All four legs can be in the air when running.
- Is this breed right for you?
Loving and extremely loyal, the Saluki can be a family pet; however, he may only attach himself to one owner. Not prone to roughhousing, it’s best that the Saluki is paired with families that have older children and someone that he can choose as his human. A great watchdog, the breed does not do well with animals that are not dogs. An athletic breed in need of large amounts of exercise, he’s not suited for apartment life and will make a great companion to a runner and biker.
A dream day in the life of a Saluki
The Saluki will love to wake up to exercise. After a great run, he’s fine with being left alone at home for the day. Guarding the home is his No. 1 priority as he strolls the house and catnaps in his dog bed. After dinner, he’s ready to run alongside during a bike ride with his favorite human. He’ll enjoy ending his night with a treat and a bit of cuddling with his loving family.
Other breeds you might like
Meet the breed: Borzoi
Meet the breed: Greyhound
Meet the breed: Whippet
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