Saluki
Salukis are graceful sighthounds built for endurance and speed, often combining athletic ability with a calm, gentle demeanor at home. They tend to be sensitive and independent—training gets the best results with patience and rewards. Salukis enjoy safe sprinting opportunities and long walks, but recall can be challenging due to prey drive. Some have feathering on the ears and legs that needs light grooming. With safe exercise, gentle handling, and a predictable routine, Salukis can be quiet, affectionate companions.
The Saluki is a large dog in the Hound group, known for Gentle, Independent, Quiet. Adults typically weigh 40-65 lbs and stand 23-28 in, with a lifespan around 12-14 years.
Quick facts
- Group: Hound
- Size: large
- Lifespan: 12-14 years
- Weight: 40-65 lbs
- Height: 23-28 in
- Temperament: Gentle, Independent, Quiet, Athletic
Temperament & day-to-day life
Temperament helps you predict what daily life with this breed may feel like. The Saluki is often described as Gentle, Independent, Quiet, Athletic. Individual dogs vary, but these traits are a solid starting point when you’re planning training, enrichment, and routines.
If you’re researching this breed because you’re trying to identify your own dog, use temperament as supporting evidence—not the final verdict. Compare size, proportions, and behavior patterns, then confirm with a photo using the AI dog breed identifier.
Training & exercise
Hounds were developed to follow scent or sight. Many have strong instincts to track, chase, or explore—traits that show up clearly on walks.
Recall and leash skills are especially important. Use high-value rewards and practice in low-distraction environments before leveling up.
Enrichment that taps into sniffing and tracking (scent games, long-line walks) can be as valuable as pure running for many hounds.
History
Salukis are an ancient breed from the Middle East, historically used for hunting by sight across open terrain. They have long been valued for speed, stamina, and elegance.
Care tips
Good care is less about perfection and more about consistency. Start with simple routines you can keep up—daily movement, a predictable feeding plan, and regular check-ins for ears, nails, and skin.
- Provide safe running areas; sighthounds need sprint outlets.
- Use secure leashes—prey drive can trigger sudden chasing.
- Train gently with rewards; sensitivity is common.
- Give them soft bedding; lean bodies need cushioning.
- Groom feathered areas as needed to prevent tangles.
Similar breeds to compare
Many breeds share similar silhouettes and features. If you’re comparing AI results or deciding between breeds, it helps to read a few profiles side by side. Common look-alikes and close cousins to the Saluki include Greyhound, Whippet, Afghan Hound, Basenji.
When you compare, focus on structure (muzzle length, ear set, body proportions) as much as coat color. Then confirm by looking at temperament and daily care needs.
FAQ
How big do Salukis get?
Most adult Salukis fall around 40-65 lbs and stand 23-28 in. Genetics, diet, and activity level all influence where an individual dog lands within that range.
How long do Salukis live?
The typical lifespan is 12-14 years. Preventive vet care, healthy weight, and consistent daily exercise are some of the biggest factors that support longevity.
What is the Saluki temperament like?
Many owners describe this breed as Gentle, Independent, Quiet, Athletic. Early socialization and reward-based training help those traits show up as calm confidence at home and on walks.
How can I identify a Saluki from a photo?
Upload a clear photo (ideally with the full body visible) to our dog breed identifier. Use the results as a starting point, then compare likely matches in the breed directory.