The Saluki Dog Breed is the Persian Greyhound

The Saluki is one of the noblest of all hounds, and one of the most ancient, being many hundreds of years old, and possibly thousands. It is regarded as the original stock from which many other breeds in the west have sprung. This breed is considered by many to be the oldest in the world, and is thought to be the oldest purebred dog in recorded history.

The Saluki is the royal dog of Egypt and may be as old as human civilisation. Their mummified bodies have been found alongside the Pharaohs and their pictures appear in ancient Egyptian tombs dating from 2100 BC. Carvings of greyhound-type dogs with the breed's distinctive feathered ears, legs and tail were even found in Sumerian ruins dated around 7,000 B.C.

The Saluki resembles the Greyhound in stature, and has been called the 'Persian Greyhound.'
It is thought to have been introduced to Europe by the Celts, who used the breed in hunting. Related to the Afghan Hound, and a close cousin to the Arabian Greyhound, the Saluki has always been highly prized by Arab peoples for the breed's ability to follow their horses, and its skill at hunting gazelle with falcons.

They are hunters and can gallop after prey at 40 miles per hour. They have the ability to more be than a match to small gazelle and similar creatures over rough desert terrain. It makes a great desert sight. A hunter capable of incredible speed and agility over rough terrain. The breed was even used to course gazelle, the fastest of the antelopes. The so let us round off by saying that this is a hound of great beauty and elegance which carries itself regally.

The Saluki is not angular like its cousin, the Afghan Hound. The breed has a gracefully made look, and is pleasingly symmetrical, with a powerful rear and hocks low to the ground which gives it the jumping and turning ability it needs to make it the top top coursing hound it is. It is a medium-sized breed.

The Saluki is a very intelligent dog that is quick to learn and respond to positive training. Due to their intelligence level, however, these magnificent canines can quickly become bored with having to repeat repetitive tasks.

The Saluki is a healthy breed which rarely suffers any congenital problems. The biggest concern with them is their sensitivity to anesthesia as a result of their low levels of body fat.

They grow to reach 23-28 ins in height at 29 to 66 lbs, yet are rather lean. It is a pack animal and was used by the nomadic Bedouins to hunt for food.

Its expression is “dignified and gentle with deep, faithful, far-seeing eyes.” It is sensitive and intelligent, but if it is off its leash outdoors, do not expect it to come when called, especially if there is a gazelle in sight.

This is one of the most beautiful and graceful of dogs, but its beauty is best appreciated when running in full stride.

The Saluki is very gentle with children and can be a friend with undying loyalty.

Overall the Saluki is a loving, elegant, intelligent and loyal dog that may be right for you if you have the time and commitment that it takes to owning this wonderful breed of dog. However, some do say that they are not overly affectionate when kept within a family.

The Saluki is still found in all parts of the Arabian Peninsula, North Africa and most countries in western Asia, but in fewer numbers than in the past. The breed is going the way of the Bedouins. It is an animal of the wide open spaces, which is being crowded out by civilization.

The Saluki is a prime hunting machine and weapon; his natural born instincts give him a strong desire to run down and catch whatever he sees moving. Of course, these instincts can get him into trouble if he's turned off lead in the wrong place at the wrong time.

His coat is short, with silky feathers on his ears, legs, and curving tail. The Saluki is an average shedder and does not have a doggy smell.

Their coat colors range from pure black to reddish, brownish, tan, white and tri-color (white-black-tan). Nowadays in the United States, Salukis are mostly feathered; however, the Bedouin tribes valued each type equally and often cross bred the Feathered and Smooth-haired types. Coat must develop naturally.

The Saluki is a recognised American Kennel Club breed.

Early training and socialization are important so they do not develop into excessively shy or cautious animals. These are proud animals, but sensitive too. Early and constant socialization and training is a must with this headstrong breed, as they will tend to want to make their own decisions unless taught otherwise. But with the right understanding and owner commitment they can make great pets.

About the Author: Steve Evans