Saluki
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Lineage and Description:
The Saluki is a beautiful and prized dog that is believed to date back to around 6000 BC. Proof of its existence has been found in carvings from that period, bearing strong likeness to this hound. In addition, other old engravings have also been found illustrating the dog's hunting abilities, for which it is well known.They were a highly esteemed dog of the pharaohs. Mummified remains have been discovered in the royal tombs of ancient Egypt to indicate their importance and value.
The Saluki is a sighthound, also known by other names, including the Persian Greyhound, Gazelle Hound and Arabian Hound. Its graceful and elegant body is similar in appearance to the greyhound. It was used in Arabia, Egypt and Persia to hunt gazelles, using its excellent vision to see far into the distance and remarkable speed, which can reach up to 40 miles per hour. The breed is also known to have superb hearing, picking up the slightest sound long before any human awareness.
They are among the oldest of hounds and their hunting instincts are deeply ingrained.
Appearance:
Height: 23-28 inches Weight: 31-55 lbs.Color variations: Cream, White, Golden Fawn, black and tan, red, and tricolor.
Coat and Care:
There are two coat types. The more common, is smooth and silky with feathering on the legs, back of thighs and long silky ears. While the other coat type is short and smooth all over.
This breed sheds about average and grooming is handled quite easily by occasional brushing. They are considered a naturally clean dog and another nice feature is that its coat is basically odor free.
Personality and Traits:
If you want a dog that is comforting when you're feeling down and out, or playful when you're in a great mood, then this is your dog! Salukis are known for their sensitive and loyal nature and will react to your moods and the environment.At the same time, because of their sensitivity, they need a gentle approach and lots of praise when you are training them. Harshness won't work with this breed - actually, it usually doesn't work with any breed!
As a family companion, they are affectionate, intelligent and make good watchdogs.
Activity Level:
The Saluki enjoys and should ideally have a lot of exercise. They love to run, but this should be done on leash considering that they would by nature, chase after a rabbit or small animal if given the chance. If you happen to be an athletic type who can run at a good clip, this dog, when conditioned, would have no trouble keeping up.
Space Needs:
Salukis do best in a house with a decent size yard in which to run. They should sleep inside for warmth because of their lean bodies.
Children:
Best with older children who are gentle and considerate of pets. As always, caution and supervision is recommended whenever children play with any pets.
Elderly:
Size and exercise requirements might rule out the Saluki as the best choice for the elderly or more sedentary family. Its loyalty and love would rule it in.
Book Recommendations:
COMPLETE SALUKI
The show Saluki, care, breeding and raising, in the show ring, obedience, coursing, general health. Black & white photos.
SALUKI (KCB)
Information about breed history, characteristics, puppy selection, feeding, training, health care and behavior. Also includes advice about preparing for the puppy's arrival, housetraining, preventing puppy problems. Over 135 color photos.
SALUKIS
Covers breed history, description, grooming, selecting and bringing home a puppy, nutrition, sleeping arrangements, housetraining, general health care, breeding. Easy-to-follow advice about selection and caring of the breed. Good advice for someone new to the breed, or the younger owner. About 1/3 of the book is breed specific and the rest is generic dog information. Good color photos.
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