Saluki – Fun Facts and Crate Size
October 20, 2018
Saluki
Quick Facts:
- AKC recognized in 1929
- Lifespan: 10-17 years
- Size: Medium
- Energy: Medium
- Recommended Crate Size: 42” dog crate*
Return to main Dog Crate Size Breed Chart.
Table of Contents
Introduction
The Saluki is originally bred in the Fertile Crescent.
The Saluki is also known as the Persian Greyhound and is one of the oldest recognized dog breeds in the world.
Its history is dated back 6,000 years ago in the era of Ancient Mesopotamia where there are depictions of dogs with feathered ears and tails, with slim legs on old paintings and sculptures. The images of the dogs are thought to be the ancestor of the Salukis.
This breed was considered to be a royal dog in Egypt. There is even a discovery of mummified Salukis!
Arab tribesmen also highly value the dogs and called them “el hor”, which means noble.
The West started breeding the Saluki in 1840 when they were first brought to England.
It was bred for hunting by nomadic tribes, and they still have this same purpose even now. This breed hunts by using their sight. Once they see their prey, they will chase and kill or retrieve it. Its prey includes hares, foxes, jackals, and gazelles.
Breed
The American Kennel Club formally recognized the Saluki in 1929.
These medium energy dogs are known as dignified, gentle, and independent. Their independent personality can be a bit problematic during training. Moreover, since they are sensitive, you cannot train them by using harsh or forceful methods. You must be patient and gentle.
The Saluki may look fragile with their slim body shape, but they are actually able to chase their prey for long distances over difficult terrain. Moreover, they can run up to 30-35mph!
Appearance
The Salukis have a slender body complete with a deep chest, long legs, and tail. The height of males is between 23-28 inches, with females being slightly smaller than males. They can weigh up to 40-65 pounds.
The head of this breed is long and narrow with feathered dropped ears.
Their coat is short, soft, and silky. The coat can be either smooth or feathered.
The Salukis come in various colors like fawn, white, cream, or even tricolor (white, black, and tan).
Nutrition
It is recommended to provide feed formulated to medium-sized breeds. It is highly recommended to discuss your dog’s feed with your veterinarian and/or breeder in order to determine the size and frequency of meals in order to ensure a healthy, long life. It is also important to ensure that clean, fresh water is always available.
Grooming
Saluki is a very clean dog that only sheds a little. So, you only need to give them weekly brushing and the occasional bath.
Exercise
Since this breed is a dog with a natural hunting instinct, we must provide them both mental and physical exercises. And, you must train them with patience since they are quite independent. Due to this deep hunting instinct, you must let them run for about once or twice a week. A long walk alone will not be enough for them but is acceptable as part of their daily exercise of between 30-60 minutes.
This dog is also a great jumper. That means your fences have to be 5 feet high so they cannot jump over it and run to the road.
Pet Crate Size
Pet Crates Direct recommends a 42” dog crate* for most adult Salukis.
Return to the main Dog Crate Sizes Breed Chart.
* Links for crate sizes will bring you to the most appropriate Amazon page.