Saluki — Breed Profile
"Dignified, independent, loyal, gentle, swift, graceful"
Royal sprinter with a wandering mind
At a Glance
Breed Traits
Best For
Active families with secure yards, experienced dog owners, those appreciating independent breeds, homes in warm climates
Not Ideal For
Apartment dwellers without regular exercise access, owners seeking obedience-focused dogs, households with small pets like rabbits or cats, first-time dog owners seeking easy trainability
Health Considerations
Hip dysplasia, heart conditions, hemangiosarcoma, hypothyroidism
Estimated annual vet cost: $500-$1,200
Breed History
One of the world's oldest standardized dog breeds, originating in the Fertile Crescent and used by nomadic tribes for thousands of years. Closely related to the Afghan Hound. Purebred in the Middle East since at least the 19th century by royalty, and in the West since the 1840s. May be inspiration for the mythical Set animal.
Fun Facts
- Among the world's oldest breeds, bred by kings for thousands of years
- Swift sprinters with sighthunting abilities, can reach high speeds
- Similar dogs have appeared in medieval and ancient art throughout Middle East and North Africa
- May be a possible explanation for the mythical Set animal from Egyptian mythology
- Can live 10-17 years, with some reaching well into their late teens
Famous Salukis
Various Middle Eastern royal collections; depicted in ancient Egyptian and Persian art