Saluki: an elegant hunting dog

Saluki hondenras in een bos

The Saluki is an elegant and graceful hunter. This dog breed originated in the Middle East and was considered a status symbol there. This was partly due to its elegant appearance. The coat of a Saluki is silky and smooth. Its body is in proportion. It is a quiet dog that is affectionate and devoted to its owner.

The Saluki can be stubborn; therefore it needs a friendly and consistent upbringing. This dog breed can adapt well to different situations and living environments. It is important that he can use his energy. Are you curious and would you like to know more about the Saluki? Then read this article!

 

History: an ancient breed from Iran

The Saluki is one of the oldest purebred dogs and dates back to ancient times. It is also called the Persian greyhound and originally comes from Iran. There, this dog breed was used as a hunting dog by nomadic peoples in the desert. Because these peoples lived in many different places, the Saluki was spread over areas from the Caspian Sea to the Sahara.

The Saluki may have been a status symbol in the past. Indeed, in Egypt, the nobility used this dog to exude power. In addition to being a hunting dog, the Saluki was also a companion dog. People never bought a Saluki but received the dog as a gift from family or friends. In Egypt, the Saluki was mummified after his death. Many of these mummies were later found. In ancient times, the Saluki was found only in the Middle East. It was not until around the nineteenth century that this dog breed first came to the West, where it grew into a popular show dog.

 

The character: quiet, loyal and funny

The Saluki is an intelligent and calm dog. This dog breed has a sense of humor and is very curious. The Saluki is a loyal and affectionate dog to its owner. In his loyalty this dog breed really excels. Towards strangers he is reserved and hesitant. He has a quiet character and can adapt well to the people and animals around him. A Saluki can also adapt well to the environment. At home it is a quiet dog that enjoys the attention of his owner and naps in his doggy basket. Despite the fact that he is quiet in the house, it is important that he gets enough time to move and to use his energy.

The Saluki does not like to be left alone. It is important that you leave him home alone as little as possible. If you know that your Saluki will be home alone for a longer period of time, you should slowly get him used to it. However, we do not recommend getting a dog if you do not have enough time for it.

A Saluki gets along well with children. It is important to get the dog and children used to each other in an early stage and to always keep an eye on them as a parent. It is not wise to leave a dog alone with young children. Even if you have other pets, it is important that the animals get used to each other. Socializing with humans and animals is something that requires a lot of attention, especially in the first months of a dog’s life.

Saluki in grasveld

The appearance of a Saluki

The Saluki is a medium-sized dog and has an elegant and graceful appearance. The proportions of the body are proportional and balanced. The Saluki stands high on its legs and looks slender. The legs are less well developed than those of other greyhounds. The head is narrow and long, especially the length of its muzzle stands out. The ears hang down and are also quite long. The tail is carried backwards and has long hairs especially at the bottom. The eyes are almond shaped and dark brown in color.

The Saluki can occur in the following colors:

  • White
  • Light brown
  • Tan
  • Red
  • Gold coloured
  • Cream

These colors can also occur in combinations and other shades. The coat is smooth and silky. At the back near the legs and tail the coat is longer. There are two kinds of coats with the Saluki, namely a smooth and a feathered variant.

The height at the withers of a male dog is between 58 and 71 centimeters and between 53 and 66 centimeters for a female. This dog breed weighs between 20 and 30 pounds. The females are often slightly smaller and lighter than the males.

 

The care

There are two types of coats on a Saluki, the smooth and the feathered coat. The smooth coat should be brushed weekly. The feathered coat should be brushed several times a week. Especially on the body parts where the hair is longer, such as the ears, legs and tail, it is important to brush well. Brushing prevents mats and tangles in the coat. A bath is only necessary when a Saluki is dirty. The coat can keep itself clean reasonably well.

Furthermore, a Saluki needs basic care just like any other dog. Make sure the nails are not too long and that the ears and eyes are clean. The cleaning of the ears and eyes can be done with a clean, damp cloth. Also the teeth need attention. With special dog toothbrush and dog toothpaste you can take care of the teeth.

 

Are there any diseases that occur in this breed?

This dog breed is a pure breed and is generally healthy. The Saluki lives to be 12 to 14 years old on average. There are some problems and disorders that can occur in a Saluki. These are disorders that you cannot always see in a growing puppy. Some diseases do not develop until later. Therefore, it is important to make your purchase from a recognized breeder. He is aware of diseases and disorders within the pedigree. Hereditary disorders and diseases that can occur in a Saluki are:

  • Eye problems
  • Hip dysplasia
  • The disease of von Willebrands

Several eye problems can occur in a Saluki. A dog can suffer from vision loss or complete blindness. Cataracts can also occur in a Saluki.

In hip dysplasia, the head no longer fits properly in the socket of the joint. This can cause a dog to have difficulty walking, running, and standing up. You may notice that your dog starts to become lame. This can also occur later in life as the joints begin to wear down. A pup that is growing must therefore never overload its joints. This can cause a negative effect on the muscles and joints. So watch out for example stairs and jumping at a young age.

Von Willebrands disease is a blood clotting disorder. This causes the blood to clot less well, which can lead to various bleeding problems. Von Willebrands disease is an inherited disease.

Of course, there are other health problems that can occur. If you notice changes in your dog’s appearance or behavior, it is wise to ask your veterinarian for advice. He can help you prevent or treat the disease. It is nice if your dog stays as healthy as possible.

twee Saluki honden

Dog training for this breed

The Saluki is an intelligent and independent dog. This dog breed does not always find it necessary to respond to the commands of his boss. He likes to choose for himself when he has the time and inclination to be obedient. Because of this, training a Saluki will not always be easy.

It is therefore important to start the training and education of a Saluki at an early age. At a young age it is easy to train a Saluki. In this period you can teach him desired behavior. This dog breed learns quickly, but is susceptible to boredom. Therefore, make sure there is enough variety and challenge during training. To teach a Saluki desired behavior, a puppy course is recommended.

A basic training or puppy course is essential for every dog. Through early socialization, the Saluki learns to deal with other dogs. He also learns the basic commands and to listen to his owner. The sooner you start, the better results you will achieve. During the training you also build a better bond with your dog. A hard approach does not work with the Saluki. A friendly and consistent approach works best.

 

What does a Saluki cost?

On average you pay between €1500 and €2000 for a Saluki with a pedigree. A Saluki is a pricey and rare dog. You have to make sure that you buy from a recognized breeder. A recognized breeder takes good care of the puppies and mother dog. A good breeder will have dewormed and vaccinated the puppy before you take it home. In addition, he can tell you if there are any hereditary diseases in the pedigree.

You must also take into account other expenses when you purchase a dog. There are costs that come back regularly, think of food, vet costs and care products. You also have to pay dog tax in every municipality. Before the dog comes into your house, it is important that you have purchased a basket, a leash and a food bowl. Taking in a dog costs a lot of time and money. Think about whether you have enough budgets for this. Every dog deserves a good home.

 

How much exercise does this breed need?

In general, the Saluki needs quite a lot of exercise, especially if they are often left alone at home. The Saluki can adapt well to its environment, but it is important that it gets enough exercise to stay happy. In addition to daily walks, a Saluki likes to run freely. The Saluki can reach a high speed and run up to 69 km/h. While running it makes smooth and stylish movements. The speed that the Saluki can achieve was once useful for hunting.

Although the adaptability of a Saluki is great, this dog prefers a residential home with a fenced garden. It is possible to keep a Saluki in an apartment, but this is not immediately recommended. If he cannot expend his energy, he may exhibit undesirable behavior.

Activities such as running alongside a bicycle, running together or long walks are suitable activities for a Saluki. This dog breed likes to do activities with its owner. If you go for a walk with a Saluki, it is important to keep him on a leash. This dog has a strong hunting instinct and will not pay attention to his boss if he sees or smells something. Because of this, a Saluki can easily escape and it will be difficult to catch him.

Saluki close-up

Recognition in the US

The AKC officially recognized the Saluki in 1927. This means that it is a healthy dog breed that may be bred with and can participate in various sporting events. In addition, there is a breed association in the US that cares about the existence and health of the Saluki. The Saluki Club of America organizes various events and activities. You can also contact them if you are looking for a puppy.

 

Do you already have a Saluki or are you planning on getting one?

The Saluki was a status symbol in ancient times. Looking at its elegant appearance, we can understand that. The Saluki is an expensive dog breed that is best purchased from a recognized breeder. With a Saluki you can build a good bond. He is very loyal to his owner. He can also cope well with children. Small pets can be a challenge, because he can see these pets as prey. At home the Saluki will be a quiet dog, but outside he will be active and express his energy.

Are you a dog lover looking for a loyal dog who enjoys long walks? Then the Saluki might be the right dog for you. Do you have a Saluki and would you like to share your experience? Or are you planning on getting one? Leave your experience in a comment below this article!

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Onlinedogworld Team

Onlinedogworld Team

Our readers and writers have one thing in common: a passion for dogs. At Onlinedogworld we try to help dog owners (and dogs) by giving them information about dog breeds, dog training and dog behavior. Our team does their best to make Onlinedogworld the best possible place to go to for dog owners, by keep improving the website.
Onlinedogworld Team

Onlinedogworld Team

Our readers and writers have one thing in common: a passion for dogs. At Onlinedogworld we try to help dog owners (and dogs) by giving them information about dog breeds, dog training and dog behavior. Our team does their best to make Onlinedogworld the best possible place to go to for dog owners, by keep improving the website.

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