About Saluki Breed
Saluki is one of the oldest known pure breed of domesticated dogs whose origin dates back 7000 years back. The dog is well known for its speed and beauty and its presence was found over a vast area starting from the Sahara desert to the Caspian Sea. Due to extensive traveling, various subtypes of
Saluki evolved, which varies in color and coat.
Physical Appearance
The appearance of
Saluki is as that of an athlete. The body coats are of two types. The short and smooth coat covers the entire body where as the long and feathered ones are on the ears, legs and tail. The coats have colors ranging from black, tan, white, and gold to red and different combinations of the colors. The salukis with a white patch in the middle of forehead are treated as special because the Bedouin tribes believe it to be “the kiss of Allah”. Since the
breed is known for its speed, all of its legs are in the air at the same time while running. It has a slim body and the head is narrow, tapering towards the nose. They have hanging ears which are long. The color of the large and skinny eyes is brown. The body is elongated and the feet have hairs between the toes for protecting while traveling.
Character
Salukis have the qualities of hunting hounds and are reserve. They like to stay aloof and get bored easily with repetition. They are so sensitive that they should not be trained with hard training methods. They are good to children and accept one master. They are not obedient always but love to work according to its will. They even stay aloof from their family. They are a good companion and make a good
watchdog. Their main interest lies in chasing and killing non-canine animals, a typical characteristic of this breed.
Saluki as a Pet
The Salukis are not recommended for apartment life but likes hunting outdoors. So it is always recommended to keep them fenced and make them sleep indoors. They are tolerant to warm temperature but very hot weather makes them uncomfortable. A lot of exercise is required for body fitness of the
Saluki, at least a walk or a run everyday. The Saluki dogs are so fond of hunting that they will not respond to their master’s call if they are chasing something.
Saluki is a strong and healthy
breed but the only problem lies with its sensitivity to anesthesia. They have large litters of about ten puppies at a time. They can also have sunburn on their nose. They are prone to cancer and eye disorders. The life expectancy of a Saluki is about 10-12 years. The
Saluki is the mascot for the Southern Illinois University Sports Team. The Saluki is the mascot for the Southern Illinois University sports teams
