Saluki
Middle East, Long-haired or fringed Sighthounds
- Size
- Large
- Height
- 58–71 cm
- Weight
- 13–30 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–14 yrs
- Gentle
- Reserved
- Independent
- Fast
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Saluki
The Saluki is an ancient sighthound from the Middle East, prized by nomadic peoples for hunting gazelle and hares over open desert. It is a slender, elegant dog with a deep chest, long legs and feathering on its ears, tail and legs. It is built for speed and endurance, and is dignified and a little aloof.
Temperament
Gentle, reserved and independent, often cat-like in the home. Affectionate with its family but aloof with strangers. Strong chasing instinct and sensitive nature.
Exercise
Needs daily walks and regular chances for off-lead sprints in safe, fully enclosed areas, as it will chase.
Grooming
Smooth coat with feathering that needs brushing weekly. Check the feathering for tangles.
Care & wellbeing
Thin-skinned and lean, so provide soft bedding and warmth in cold weather. Sensitive to anaesthetic, so tell your vet. Ask about heart screening and keep dogs on a lead near roads.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 21.5 kg adult- Water
- 860 ml–1.3 L
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 1,120 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- A brush once a week
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Saluki
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
An ancient sighthound from the Middle East, bred by nomadic peoples for hunting gazelle and hare over long distances. Elegant and fast, it is gentle, independent and reserved.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Heart conditions
- Cancers such as haemangiosarcoma
- Sensitivity to anaesthetics
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Heart tests
- Eye tests
- Thyroid tests
Not every Saluki is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Higher than average- Food, insurance and medicines cost more for a big dog
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–14 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Saluki right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
- This is your first dog — an independent breed can be a challenge to train
- You need a dog you can easily lift or carry
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Saluki get?
Adult Salukis typically stand about 58–71 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 13–30 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Salukis live?
Typically 12–14 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Saluki need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Saluki need?
A brush once a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Salukis easy to train?
Often independent-minded, so training needs patience, consistency and high-value rewards.
Do Salukis shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Salukis good with children?
Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Saluki live in a flat?
It can work — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Salukis have?
The breed can be prone to heart conditions, cancers such as haemangiosarcoma, sensitivity to anaesthetics. Not every Saluki is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Middle East
- Type
- Long-haired or fringed Sighthounds
- Internationally recognised
- 1966