Saluki - MAIN HUB
BREED GROUP
Hound Dogs
Country of origin
Middle East
BREED SIZE
Large
BREED HEIGHT
23 -
28 IN
58 -
71 cm
BREED WEIGHT
20 -
35 LB
9 -
16 KG
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
american kennel club (AKC) recognition
Yes
Breed was recognized in 1927.
International Canine Federation (FCI) recognition
Yes
Breed was recognized in 1966.
WHAT DO OWNERS WANT TO KNOW?
Are Salukis good family dogs?
Good
7 out of 10
Salukis are gentle, loyal, and quiet companions that thrive on human interaction, making them peaceful additions to the home. However, their high exercise needs, independent nature, and tendency toward separation anxiety mean they are best suited for active families who can provide constant companionship and dedicated training.
Are Salukis good with kids?
Not Recommended
1 out of 10
Salukis are gentle and patient with children but typically prefer a quiet environment and are not very interested in active play. They are best suited for families with older children who can respect their sensitive nature and need for space. While they are tolerant of the children in their own family, they may ignore kids or avoid roughhousing, so constant supervision and teaching children gentle handling are essential.
Are Salukis good dogs for first time owners?
Not Recommended
1 out of 10
Salukis are generally not recommended for first-time owners due to their independent nature, high prey drive, and extreme sensitivity. They are intelligent but can be a challenge to train, as they are not eager to please and often have their own agenda. Success with a Saluki requires an experienced owner who can provide consistent, positive-reinforcement training and meet their significant needs for vigorous, off-leash exercise in secure areas.
Are Salukis good apartment dogs?
Not Recommended
6 out of 10
Salukis can adapt to apartment living as they are notably quiet and "catlike" indoors, often spending most of their time lounging on the sofa. However, they are not naturally suited for small spaces due to their large size and intense need for daily vigorous exercise, specifically the opportunity to run full throttle in a securely fenced area. Success in an apartment requires a significant time commitment from owners to provide long walks and safe outlets for their high energy and prey drive to prevent destructive behaviors.
Do Salukis need a yard?
Above Average
4 out of 10
A yard is highly recommended for a Saluki to satisfy their intense need for daily vigorous exercise, specifically the opportunity to run at full speed in a securely fenced area. While they can adapt to apartment living if owners are dedicated to providing long walks and frequent trips to safe, enclosed spaces, a yard with a fence at least six feet high is ideal for their physical and mental well-being. Without an outlet for their high energy and prey drive, they may become bored and engage in destructive behaviors.
Can Salukis be left at home alone?
Poor
2 out of 10
Salukis are deeply social and thrive on human companionship, making them notably prone to separation anxiety when left alone for extended periods. While they are famously quiet and catlike indoors, they are best suited for households where someone is frequently present or where they have another canine companion to help them feel secure.
Do Salukis tolerate cats well?
Fair
4 out of 10
While they have a high prey drive, they are often considered "Good" or "Exceptional" with other indoor pets, including cats, if raised with them from a young age.
Are Salukis known to be aggressive?
Calm
8 out of 10
Salukis are not naturally aggressive; they are typically gentle, dignified, and independent companions that are often aloof or reserved with strangers. While their high prey drive can lead to chasing smaller animals, true aggression is rare and usually stems from fear or poor socialization. With consistent, gentle training and early socialization, they remain peaceful and loyal family pets.
Do Salukis have a lot of energy?
High
8 out of 10
Salukis possess a unique dual energy profile, often described as having two settings: full gallop or totally zen. While they are remarkably quiet and catlike indoors, they are elite athletes that require at least two hours of daily vigorous exercise, including the chance to run at full speed in a secure area. Without an appropriate outlet for their speed and stamina, these graceful hounds may become bored and engage in destructive behaviors.
How much exercise do Salukis need?
~120+ min a day
10 out of 10
Salukis are athletic sprinters that require significant daily exercise to maintain their physical and mental well-being. They typically need at least 1 to 2 hours of vigorous activity every day, which should include long walks and opportunities to run at full speed in a securely fenced, large area. Because of their intense prey drive and incredible speed, they should never be exercised off-leash in unenclosed spaces. Once their physical needs are met, these "catlike" hounds are famously calm and enjoy lounging on soft furniture indoors.
Do Salukis tolerate hot weather well?
Exceptional
10 out of 10
Salukis are excellently suited for hot weather, as they were originally bred for endurance in the high temperatures of Middle Eastern deserts. Their lean build, long muzzle, and thin coat allow them to regulate body temperature efficiently. Despite their natural heat tolerance, owners should always provide ample shade and fresh water, and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest parts of the day.
Are Salukis good with cold weather?
Exceptional
10 out of 10
Salukis are excellently suited for hot weather, as they were originally bred for endurance in the high temperatures of Middle Eastern deserts. Their lean build, long muzzle, and thin coat allow them to regulate body temperature efficiently. Despite their natural heat tolerance, owners should always provide ample shade and fresh water, and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest parts of the day.
Are Salukis sometimes banned from rentals?
Moderate Risk
6 out of 10
Salukis are rarely subject to breed-specific bans in apartments or rentals, as they are generally known for their quiet and dignified indoor temperament. However, because of their large size and significant need for high-speed exercise, some landlords may impose restrictions based on weight limits or the lack of a suitable fenced area for running. It is always recommended to check specific lease agreements and insurance policies for any general size or exercise-related requirements.
WHAT DO OWNERS WANT TO KNOW?
