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Science & Nature • Dog Breed

Saluki

The Saluki is an ancient sighthound breed known for its speed, elegance, and long history in the Middle East and North Africa.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The Saluki is an ancient sighthound breed known for its speed, elegance, and long history in the Middle East and North Africa. It has been used for centuries to hunt swift game such as gazelles and hares, and is often described as one of the world’s oldest dog breeds. The breed is also known as the Persian hound, Arabian hound, or gazelle hound.

History

Sources describe the Saluki as an ancient breed with roots in the Middle East and ancient Egypt. It appears in historical art and burial contexts and was valued for hunting in desert regions.

Appearance

The Saluki is a medium-to-large, slim hound with a narrow head, long ears, and a graceful build suited to speed. Coat types can be smooth or feathered, and common colours include cream, fawn, white, black and tan, and grizzle and tan.

Temperament and behaviour

The breed is often described as calm, reserved, intelligent, and independent. Like other sighthounds, it has a strong chase instinct and typically needs regular exercise.

Use and abilities

Salukis were bred for coursing and hunting by sight, especially in open desert terrain. They are known for speed, endurance, and agility.

Key facts

  • The Saluki is a sighthound, hunting primarily by sight.
  • It is widely described as one of the oldest dog breeds.
  • Historically used by nomadic peoples to hunt gazelles and hares.
  • Known for a lean build, long narrow head, and silky feathering on some dogs.
  • Commonly described as dignified, independent, and athletic.
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Canadian context

Salukis are present in Canada as a companion dog breed and are recognized by dog breed organizations used by Canadian breeders and owners. Canadian readers may encounter them in conformation, lure coursing, and sighthound communities.

Frequently asked questions

What type of dog is a Saluki?
A Saluki is a sighthound in the hound group, bred to hunt by sight rather than scent.
Where did Salukis come from?
They are generally associated with the Middle East and ancient Egypt, though exact origins are not definitively known.
What were Salukis bred for?
They were bred to chase and catch swift game, especially gazelles, hares, and similar prey.
How big is a Saluki?
Adults are typically about 58–71 cm tall and weigh roughly 18–29 kg.
What is a Saluki's coat like?
Salukis may have a smooth coat or a feathered coat with longer hair on the ears, legs, tail, and sometimes the throat.

References

  1. American Kennel Club — https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/saluki/
    Supports: Breed type, temperament, and general description of the Saluki as one of the world’s oldest breeds.
  2. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/animal/Saluki
    Supports: Ancient history, breed group, origin region, size, weight, lifespan, and historical significance.
  3. Royal Canin — https://www.royalcanin.com/au/dogs/breeds/saluki
    Supports: Sighthound classification, origin in the Middle East, ancient history, and physical description.
  4. The Spruce Pets — https://www.thesprucepets.com/saluki-dog-breed-profile-4685967
    Supports: Appearance, coat types, temperament, size, and lifespan ranges.
  5. Britannica Kids — https://www.kids.britannica.com/students/article/saluki/313368
    Supports: Description of the breed’s appearance, historical antiquity, and use for hunting gazelle.