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Saluki
Hound breed from Middle East (Fertile Crescent)
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Saluki
The Saluki is a medium-sized hound breed originating from the Middle East (Fertile Crescent). Its size is estimated: males and females typically weigh 18–29 kg and stand 58–71 cm tall. Lifespan is estimated at 10–17 years. The breed is described as gentle, independent, intelligent, devoted, calm, and reserved. Energy, trainability, grooming, and shedding are each rated 3 on a scale (likely 1–5), suggesting moderate levels. Child suitability, dog compatibility, and apartment suitability are also rated 3, indicating average adaptability. However, individual temperament varies, and these scores are general estimates.
Quick facts
Saluki at a glance
Sizemedium
Breed groupHound
OriginMiddle East (Fertile Crescent)
Lifespan10–17 years
Male weight18–29 kilogram
Female weight18–29 kilogram
Male height58–71 centimetre
Female height58–71 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Saluki is considered one of the most ancient domesticated dog breeds, with origins in the Middle East (Fertile Crescent). It was treasured by royalty and Bedouin tribes for thousands of years, though the exact timeline is not specified. The breed was historically used for hunting swift prey such as gazelle across desert terrain, reflecting its sighthound heritage. It is considered sacred by Muslims and revered throughout the Middle East, but the precise historical events and dates of its development are not documented in the supplied facts. Recognition status varies by registry, meaning some kennel clubs may recognize the breed while others do not. The breed's working purpose is not explicitly stated beyond its historical hunting role. The Saluki's elegant build, feathered ears and tail, and dignified nature are noted, but specific coat colors and types are not provided. The breed's history is deeply tied to the Middle East, but many details remain uncertain due to limited recorded evidence.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
18–29 kilogramAdult weight58–71 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesPendingCoat colorsPendingRecognitionvaries by registryData methodimported
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Gentleindependentintelligentdevotedcalmreserved
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Moderate compared with other breeds
Moderate compared with other breeds
Moderate compared with other breeds
Moderate compared with other breeds
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Saluki-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Research in progress
Editorially reviewed pros and cons will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
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Growth chart
Saluki puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight18–29 kilogramAdult female weight18–29 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of a Saluki?
Based on estimated data, adult Salukis typically weigh 18–29 kg and stand 58–71 cm tall. Their lifespan is estimated at 10–17 years. These figures are modelled estimates and may vary.
What is the Saluki's temperament like?
The breed is described as gentle, independent, intelligent, devoted, calm, and reserved. However, individual dogs may vary, and these traits are general tendencies.
How much exercise does a Saluki need?
The energy score is 3 (on a scale likely 1–5), indicating moderate energy levels. As a sighthound historically used for hunting, regular exercise is important, but specific requirements are not detailed.
What are the grooming needs of a Saluki?
Grooming and shedding scores are both 3, suggesting moderate grooming needs. The breed has feathered ears and tail, but coat types and colors are not specified.
Is a Saluki suitable for families with children or other dogs?
Child suitability and dog compatibility are both rated 3, indicating average suitability. However, individual temperament varies, and proper socialization is recommended.
Can a Saluki live in an apartment?
Apartment suitability is rated 3, suggesting it may be possible but depends on the individual dog's exercise needs and temperament.
Where does the Saluki originate from?
The Saluki originates from the Middle East (Fertile Crescent). It is one of the most ancient domesticated dog breeds, historically treasured by royalty and Bedouin tribes.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.