Hound Group
Saluki
Champion Pedigree
Ancient
Elegant
Sighthound
One of the oldest known dog breeds, the Saluki was bred by Middle Eastern nomads to course gazelle across open desert at remarkable speed. Elegant and reserved, it was historically considered a gift from Allah, never bought or sold outright by Bedouin tradition.
Lifespan
12–14 years.
Did You Know?
Mummified remains of dogs closely resembling the Saluki have been found in ancient Egyptian tombs dating back over 5,000 years.
Breed Traits
Size
23–28 in. tall, 40–65 lbs.
Energy Level
Moderate at home, a sprinter rather than an endurance athlete — needs a securely fenced area to run.
Coat & Grooming
Smooth, or feathered (long-haired variety); low grooming needs, minimal shedding.
Good With Families
Gentle and reserved, generally good with calm households; strong prey drive around small animals.
Registry Record
Also Known As
Persian Greyhound, Royal Dog of Egypt
Origin
The Middle East, an ancient sighthound breed.
Typical Litter Size
4 to 8 puppies.
Club Recognitions
AKC, FCI, KC (UK), CKC
Disposition
Dignified, independent, and gentle; strong sighthound prey drive means recall off-leash is unreliable around small animals.
Coat Colors
White, cream, fawn, red, grizzle, tricolor, and black and tan.
Working Roles
Historically a gazelle-coursing hound for Bedouin hunters; today primarily a companion and lure-coursing competitor.
Health & Wellness
A generally healthy breed, though anesthesia sensitivity shared among sighthounds and heart conditions are worth understanding.
Notable Salukis
Ancient Egyptian Heritage
Depicted in Egyptian tomb art and artifacts dating back thousands of years.
"The Royal Dog of Egypt"
A historic nickname reflecting the breed’s ancient prestige.
Bedouin Tradition
Traditionally considered a gift, never bought or sold, among Bedouin tribes.
Related Reading
Saluki Gifts
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