A Brief History
The Saluki, often referred to as the Royal Dog of Egypt or the Persian Greyhound, is a breed known for its grace, elegance, and antiquity. It is considered one of the oldest dog breeds in existence, with a rich history that stretches back several millennia.
The origins of the Saluki can be traced to ancient Mesopotamia, in what is now modern-day Iraq, dating as far back as 7000 BCE. Archaeological evidence, such as carvings and statues, suggests that the Saluki’s ancestors were highly regarded and revered by ancient civilizations, including the Sumerians, Babylonians, and Egyptians. It is believed that the name of the breed was based on the ancient Arabian city of Saluk or the Syrian town of Seleucia.
The Saluki’s exceptional hunting abilities made it a prized companion for nomadic tribes and desert dwellers. Salukis were highly valued for their speed, endurance, and keen eyesight, which allowed them to track and chase swift prey such as gazelles and hares. These dogs played an essential role in the Bedouin culture of the Arabian Peninsula, where their ability to cover great distances and hunt alongside their human counterparts made them invaluable.
Throughout history, Salukis were associated with nobility and royalty. They were highly prized and selectively bred for their exceptional traits. The ancient Egyptians, in particular, held Salukis in high regard and depicted them in their artwork, often accompanying pharaohs and other esteemed figures. Salukis were even buried alongside their owners, a testament to their revered status and their role as companions in the afterlife.
In the 19th century, Western travellers and explorers encountered the Saluki in the Middle East and brought them back to Europe. Salukis arrived in the U.K in the 1890’s and the first Saluki club was established in 1894. The breed’s regal appearance and historical significance captivated the attention of nobility and aristocracy. Salukis were introduced to dog shows and gained popularity among dog enthusiasts and breeders.
The first organised breeding programs for Salukis in the Western world were established in England in the early 20th century. Breed standards were developed, and efforts were made to preserve the Saluki’s unique traits and characteristics. In 1927 the Saluki was officially recognised by the American Kennel Club.
Today, the Saluki remains a treasured and beloved breed around the world, known for its slender physique, graceful movement, and gentle disposition. The breed’s ancient lineage and enduring elegance continue to captivate the hearts of dog lovers, preserving the legacy of the Saluki throughout the ages.
Physical Attributes
One of the most distinctive features of the Saluki is its graceful and athletic appearance. These dogs possess a lean and muscular body, often referred to as the “desert greyhound.” Their silky, feathered coat comes in a variety of colours, including white, cream, fawn, golden, and black, with or without markings. The Saluki’s deep-set, expressive eyes exude an air of intelligence and gentle nature, while their long, feathered ears add to their overall elegance.
Temperament and Personality
Despite their aristocratic demeanour, Salukis are known for their gentle and affectionate nature. They form strong bonds with their human companions and thrive on attention and companionship. Salukis are generally reserved and dignified, but they can be quite playful and enjoy a good romp in a secure, fenced area. While they may be aloof with strangers, their loyalty and devotion to their family members are unwavering.
Exercise and Training:
As sighthounds, Salukis have a strong prey drive and love to chase moving objects. Providing them with ample exercise is essential for their physical and mental well-being. Regular opportunities to run in a safe, enclosed area are crucial to keep them happy and prevent any potential behavioural issues.
Salukis in Artwork
Saluki dogs have held a significant place in the world of art throughout history. Their elegant and graceful appearance, as well as their historical association with nobility and royalty, have made them a popular subject for artists across various mediums.
Salukis were depicted in the artwork of civilisations such as ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, and Persia. Images of slender dogs with feathered tails, ears and legs have been found on various artifacts in the Middle East such as tomb paintings and mosaic sculptures dating back 5,000 years. .
In the world of art, the grace and elegance of the Saluki have made them a popular subject for artists. Two notable Saluki paintings stand out: “Two Saluki Hounds,” a captivating piece created around 1427 in China, and an oil on canvas titled “Saluki Dog” by Edwin Henry Landseer (1802-1873), painted during the period of 1840-1844. These artworks beautifully capture the timeless allure of the Saluki breed, showcasing their regal presence and enchanting beauty.
Today, Salukis continue to captivate artists. From traditional paintings and sculptures to contemporary digital artwork and pet photography, the breed remains a muse for creative expression. Saluki enthusiasts and artists alike continue to capture the breed’s striking beauty, depicting their distinctive features and conveying their timeless charm through various artistic mediums.
The Saluki’s timeless elegance, combined with its gentle and loving nature, make it a remarkable breed cherished by dog enthusiasts. If you are considering adding a Saluki to your life, be prepared to welcome a regal and devoted companion who will undoubtedly bring joy and elegance to your home.
Fun Facts
Salukis live on average 12- 14 years, although some can live another 4 years beyond life expectancy.
Salukis are a medium size breed, with males having a height of 58-71 cm at the shoulder and females being proportionally smaller.
There are 30 breed standard colours of Saluki.
Salukis can have smooth or feathered coats.
Salukis need more than 2 hours exercise a day.
Salukis have hare feet pads between their toes that allows them to run in deep sand.
Salukis are excellent jumpers, any fences need to be 5-6 feet high to prevent them escaping.
Salukis can run at 30-35 miles per hour.
In 1996, the Guinness book of records listed a Saluki as the fastest dog with a speed of 42.8 miles per hour.
Salukis depend on their exceptional vision rather than their sense of smell to locate prey, using their remarkable speed to pursue and capture.