Saluki

The Saluki, known as "the greyhounds of the Orient", are an ancient breed of hunting dogs originating in the Middle East. They are prized for their speed, agility and hunting skills.

General details

Males measure between 58 and 71 cm in height at the withers, while females measure between 53 and 66 cm. In terms of weight, males usually weigh between 20 and 28 kg, while females weigh between 16 and 23 kg. This breed belongs to Group 10 of the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), which includes sighthounds. Its life expectancy is 12 to 14 years.

Breed history in brief

The Saluki is an ancient breed of dog originating in the Middle East, with a history dating back thousands of years. It is believed to be descended from the hunting dogs used by the ancient civilizations of Mesopotamia and Egypt. For centuries, Salukis were prized for their speed and ability to hunt fast prey such as gazelles and hares. Throughout history, Salukis have been considered noble dogs and companions of royalty and aristocracy. They were highly valued in the ancient civilizations of Persia, Egypt and the Arabian Peninsula region. Although their role as hunting dogs has diminished, they are still used in some parts of the world for fox hunting and in greyhound racing competitions. Their beauty and elegance make them popular dogs in dog shows and beauty events.

Breed characteristics

The Saluki is an elegant and slender looking dog, with a distinctive appearance. It has a slender, athletic body, with long, muscular limbs that give it great speed and agility. Its head is long and narrow, with a flat skull and long muzzle. The coat is soft and silky, of medium to long length. In some areas of the body, such as the ears and tail, the coat can be longer and denser. This breed has a variety of colors, ranging from white, cream and gold to darker shades such as black, brown and tricolor. The Saluki's temperament can be described as intelligent and independent. He is reserved with strangers, but is a balanced and calm dog. With proper socialization and a trusting relationship, the Saluki becomes a loyal and valued companion, showing affection in subtle but meaningful ways.

Common health problems

Common diseases that can affect this breed include dilated cardiomyopathy, cataracts, distichiasis, hypothyroidism, progressive retinal atrophy, hip dysplasia and osteochondrosis.