Dog Breeds

Saluki

The Saluki is one of the oldest domesticated breeds known for its speed and elegance.

Saluki: The Graceful and Ancient Sighthound

Dog Breeds

Saluki

The Saluki is one of the oldest domesticated breeds known for its speed and elegance.

Saluki: The Graceful and Ancient Sighthound

Dog Breeds

Saluki

The Saluki is one of the oldest domesticated breeds known for its speed and elegance.

Saluki: The Graceful and Ancient Sighthound

Dog Breeds

Saluki

The Saluki is one of the oldest domesticated breeds known for its speed and elegance.

Saluki: The Graceful and Ancient Sighthound

Other Names

Persian Greyhound, Arabian Hound, Gazelle Hound, Royal Dog of Egypt

Other Names

Persian Greyhound, Arabian Hound, Gazelle Hound, Royal Dog of Egypt

Other Names

Persian Greyhound, Arabian Hound, Gazelle Hound, Royal Dog of Egypt

Personality

Dignified, independent, affectionate, and reserved with strangers

Personality

Dignified, independent, affectionate, and reserved with strangers

Personality

Dignified, independent, affectionate, and reserved with strangers

Weight

Up to 30 kg or 65 lbs

Weight

Up to 30 kg or 65 lbs

Weight

Up to 30 kg or 65 lbs

Length

Up to 97 cm or 38 inches (excluding the tail)

Length

Up to 97 cm or 38 inches (excluding the tail)

Length

Up to 97 cm or 38 inches (excluding the tail)

Coat Length

Short or long hair

Coat Length

Short or long hair

Coat Length

Short or long hair

Coat colors

White, cream, fawn, red, black, tan, and combinations

Coat colors

White, cream, fawn, red, black, tan, and combinations

Coat colors

White, cream, fawn, red, black, tan, and combinations

Coat Patterns

Solid, bicolor, or tricolor

Coat Patterns

Solid, bicolor, or tricolor

Coat Patterns

Solid, bicolor, or tricolor

Eye Color

Dark or amber

Eye Color

Dark or amber

Eye Color

Dark or amber

Lifespan

10-17 years

Lifespan

10-17 years

Lifespan

10-17 years

Hypoallergenic

Yes

Hypoallergenic

Yes

Hypoallergenic

Yes

Saluki

Saluki

Saluki

Breed History

The Saluki was a quick and agile hunter used to catch gazelles and hares. It was even part of several works of art, such as artifacts and pottery. Unlike other dog breeds, the Salukis were considered sacred, with some mummified along with their owners in ancient Egypt.

Over time, their agility and endurance made them valuable not just for hunting but also in modern canine sports. Despite their long history, the breed's graceful appearance and agile movements made it one of the most unique breeds in the world.

The Saluki was a quick and agile hunter used to catch gazelles and hares. It was even part of several works of art, such as artifacts and pottery. Unlike other dog breeds, the Salukis were considered sacred, with some mummified along with their owners in ancient Egypt.

Over time, their agility and endurance made them valuable not just for hunting but also in modern canine sports. Despite their long history, the breed's graceful appearance and agile movements made it one of the most unique breeds in the world.

Saluki Breed History
Saluki Breed History
Saluki Breed History

Health and Medical Concerns

Cancerology

Cardiology

Dermatology

Endocrinology

Gastroenterology

Hematology & Immune System

Infectious Diseases

Neurology

Ophthalmology

Orthopedics

Pulmonology

Reproduction

Hemangiosarcoma

Hemangiosarcomas are aggressive and often go undetected until they reach an advanced stage. The heart, spleen, and liver are the most commonly affected organs. These tumors grow and spread rapidly to other parts of the body. Affected Salukis may experience weakness, lethargy, or a sudden collapse.  (Megquier et al., 2020)

Osteosarcoma

Osteosarcoma is caused by the abnormal growth of osteoblasts and osteoclasts. Symptoms include lameness, swelling, and lethargy. As the tumor grows, dogs may experience difficulty moving and significant pain, which can also affect their behavior and overall well-being. Treating the disease involves surgery to remove the tumor, which is often followed by chemotherapy. (Martin et al., 2022)

Mammary Tumors

Mammary tumors are a common health issue in female canines, including Salukis. Studies have found that the tumors can have a 50/50 chance of being benign or malignant. Most dogs develop mammary tumors as they age, especially in those who haven’t been spayed. It’s crucial for female dogs to be diagnosed early so the tumors can be removed as soon as possible and prevent complications. (Salas et al., 2015)

Just welcomed a Saluki?
Just welcomed a Saluki?
Just welcomed a Saluki?
Just welcomed a Saluki?

Schedule their first vet visit today!

Temperament and Lifestyle Fit

Saluki Info in the UAE

Adaptability

Legalities

Availability

Heat Sensitivity

Salukis can adapt to hot climates thanks to their thin coat and desert origins. However, they are still vulnerable to extreme temperatures.

Precautions

As a safety precaution, they should be walked early in the morning or late in the evening. Constant access to fresh water, shaded areas, and paw protection equipment can help.

Saluki Info in the UAE

Adaptability

Legalities

Availability

Heat Sensitivity

Salukis can adapt to hot climates thanks to their thin coat and desert origins. However, they are still vulnerable to extreme temperatures.

Precautions

As a safety precaution, they should be walked early in the morning or late in the evening. Constant access to fresh water, shaded areas, and paw protection equipment can help.

Saluki Info in the UAE

Adaptability

Legalities

Availability

Heat Sensitivity

Salukis can adapt to hot climates thanks to their thin coat and desert origins. However, they are still vulnerable to extreme temperatures.

Precautions

As a safety precaution, they should be walked early in the morning or late in the evening. Constant access to fresh water, shaded areas, and paw protection equipment can help.

Saluki Info in the UAE

Adaptability

Legalities

Availability

Heat Sensitivity

Salukis can adapt to hot climates thanks to their thin coat and desert origins. However, they are still vulnerable to extreme temperatures.

Precautions

As a safety precaution, they should be walked early in the morning or late in the evening. Constant access to fresh water, shaded areas, and paw protection equipment can help.

Diet & Nutrition

Dietary Needs

They require a high-protein diet to maintain their lean muscle mass and energy levels. They benefit from easily digestible, nutrient-dense food rather than excessive fillers or carbohydrates.

Sensitivities

Food Types

Portion Sizes

Dietary Needs

They require a high-protein diet to maintain their lean muscle mass and energy levels. They benefit from easily digestible, nutrient-dense food rather than excessive fillers or carbohydrates.

Sensitivities

Food Types

Portion Sizes

Dietary Needs

They require a high-protein diet to maintain their lean muscle mass and energy levels. They benefit from easily digestible, nutrient-dense food rather than excessive fillers or carbohydrates.

Sensitivities

Food Types

Portion Sizes

Dietary Needs

They require a high-protein diet to maintain their lean muscle mass and energy levels. They benefit from easily digestible, nutrient-dense food rather than excessive fillers or carbohydrates.

Sensitivities

Food Types

Portion Sizes

Saluki Diet and Nutrition
Saluki Diet and Nutrition
Saluki Diet and Nutrition

Saluki Grooming Guide

A well-groomed Saluki with a feathered coat, enjoys lounging on a bed
A well-groomed Saluki with a feathered coat, enjoys lounging on a bed
A well-groomed Saluki with a feathered coat, enjoys lounging on a bed

Coat Maintenance

Salukis come in feathered and smooth coats. Feathered Salukis need brushing around two to three times a week to prevent tangles, especially around the legs, tail, and ears. For smooth-coated Salukis, brushing once a week is enough to remove loose fur and maintain shine.

Skin Health

They have relatively thin and sensitive skin, which can be prone to dryness. It’s important to avoid harsh grooming products and make sure their bedding is soft and clean. Using a moisturizing conditioner for dogs can help support skin health.

Bathing

This dog breed is usually clean and doesn’t have a strong odor, which is why bathing them every six to eight weeks is usually enough. Using a gentle hypoallergenic shampoo and a light conditioner can keep them clean and healthy.

Nail Trimming

Saluki nails must be cut every three to four weeks. Since they are active, their nails usually wear down naturally. Use dog nail clippers properly and be cautious with cutting the quick to prevent injury and discomfort.

Ear Care

Check and clean ears every one to two weeks, especially for feathered Salukis, because longer ear hair can trap dirt and debris. Use an ear cleaner approved by the vet and cotton pads to clean their outer ears. 

Eye Care

Salukis don’t need extensive eye care, but wiping the corners of their eyes gently with pet eye wipes or a damp, soft cloth. This can help prevent discharge or tear buildup. 

Teeth Care

Dental health is vital for this breed, so brushing their teeth two to three times a week using a dog-safe toothbrush and toothpaste is necessary. Dental chews and toys can also help reduce the buildup of tartar in between brushings. 

Physical Characteristics

Head

The Saluki has a long, narrow head and a refined, tapering muzzle. The nose is black or liver-colored.

Eyes

They have large, oval-shaped eyes that give a distinctive, intelligent expression. Their eye color ranges from dark brown to hazel.

Ears

Salukis have long, feathered ears that hang close to the head. The silky, flowing hair on their ears adds to their graceful appearance. 

Body

These dogs have a slender, athletic body built for speed and endurance. They have a deep chest as well as a narrow waist and tucked-up abdomen.

Limbs

They have long, straight legs with elongated and well-arched feet. 

Tail

The tail is long, curved, and carried low with silky feathering on the underside.

Coat

Salukis have a short, smooth coat with longer fur on the ears, tail, and legs in most varieties. Coat colors include cream, fawn, red, black & tan, grizzle, and tricolor.

Size

Male Salukis are 58-71 cm (23-28 inches) tall, while females are 56-68 cm (22-27 inches) tall.

Weight

Male Salukis weigh 20-30 kg (40-65 lb), while females weigh 16-20 kg (35-45 lb).

Saluki Physical Characteristics
Saluki Physical Characteristics
Saluki Physical Characteristics

Wellness & Emergency Care

Wellness & Emergency Care

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Book Appointment

Worried about your pet?

We’re here for urgent care, wellness checks, or anything in between. 

Get the best Vet care for your pet

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© 2025 Noble Veterinary Clinics

Unique care for your best friends, because they’re family.

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Sat-Sun: 9am to 6pm

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Website by ARENA

Unique care for your best friends, because they’re family.

© 2025 Noble Veterinary Clinics

Unique care for your best friends, because they’re family.

Policies

Contact Us

DIP - 8am to 9pm
JLT - 10am to 7pm

Jumeirah -

Mon-Fri: 8am to 8pm

Sat-Sun: 9am to 6pm

© 2025 Noble Veterinary Clinics