Saluki Breed Information Puppies and Breeders Australia

Salukis are an ancient breed of dog, and are thought to be one of the very first domesticated breeds. The breed is considered to have originated many thousands of years ago, and graphic evidence of their existence has been found in ancient Egyptian tombs some four thousand years of age. They may also have been found in Imperial China. The modern breed as we know it, however, has a history of around a hundred years in length. Salukis are a very rare breed in Australia, with roughly 100 or so individual dogs registered annually. There are several Saluki breeders in Australia, but obtaining a puppy can be difficult.

Breed appearance

Salukis are quite distinct in appearance. They are quite tall and slender, with their ribs and hip bones always visible, and reach roughly 70 cm in height. They can weigh up to 30 kilos, but much of this is muscle. They are a variety of sighthound, and have an appearance similar to that of many sighthound breeds. Salukis can be found in two varieties: smooth-coated, and feather-coated. The feather-coated variety has feathering on its feet and legs, its tail, and on its ears. This variety is more common in Australia than the smooth-coated variety. Salukis are available in a variety of different colours, including cream and cold, red, tri-colour, and black. Some dogs can be pale in colour with dark tips. This variety is known as “grizzle”, and is common in Australia.

Health

Salukis are typically highly robust, and are known for being a breed with few health problems. Despite being a relatively large dog, they usually live into their early or mid teens, giving them a life span that is somewhat longer than that of other dogs of a comparable size.

The temperament of a Saluki

Salukis are loyal and quiet, and enjoy being close to their owner. Though they are a large dog, they are often kept inside, and make a clean and docile indoor pet. Salukis are highly intelligent and can be trained with relative ease, although they do become bored easily. Salukis tend to distrust strangers, and may need to be socialised both with people and other dogs. Salukis are usually trustworthy around children who are part of the family, but must be supervised when around young visitors. Salukis are typically highly social in nature, and enjoy the company of each other.

Grooming

Salukis require relatively little in the way of grooming. The feathered variety needs to be combed once or twice a week, and should be bathed only when dirty. They should have their feet checked for burrs or for grass seeds, as these can cause problems. The ears should also be checked for burrs and seeds, and should be cleaned and dried regularly.

Looking after your Saluki

Despite their size, Salukis don't typically eat a lot, and adult dogs will easily subsist on between 5-10 kilos of food on a weekly basis. Growing dogs will need somewhat more, however. Salukis are active dogs, and require regular and rigorous exercise.

Salukis become bored easily, and without exercise or distractions such as toys, may become destructive. Salukis are prone to jumping and leaping, and owners should bear this in mind when purchasing a dog. All fences should be at least 7 feet tall in order to stop a Saluki jumping over them, and small valuables and foodstuffs should also be kept out of reach lest they become damaged or destroyed. Salukis also dig holes when bored, and may also escape from a backyard in this manner.