Arabian Sighthound
Breed Description

The Saluki is known by several names that reflect its ancient heritage and geographic origins. Arabian Sighthound is a commonly used alternate name that emphasizes the breed's Middle Eastern roots. Other historical and regional names include the Persian Greyhound, referring to its presence in ancient Persia, and the Gazelle Hound, which describes its traditional hunting purpose. In Arabic-speaking regions, the breed may be called El Hor, meaning "the noble one." Some enthusiasts also refer to them simply as Arabian Hounds or Royal Dog of Egypt, acknowledging their revered status in ancient civilizations.

The name Saluki itself is believed to derive from the ancient Arabian city of Saluk, though some scholars suggest it may come from Seleucia in ancient Syria. Major international kennel clubs recognize this breed under its primary name, Saluki, though the variety of historical names demonstrates the breed's widespread presence across the Middle East and North Africa throughout millennia. The breed's recognition by kennel clubs is relatively recent compared to its actual history, with formal standardization occurring in the early twentieth century as Europeans encountered these elegant dogs during their travels and colonial expeditions in the Arabian Peninsula and surrounding regions.

The Saluki receives recognition from all major international kennel organizations, each maintaining breed standards that preserve the dog's ancient type while accommodating the natural variation found across different geographic regions. The primary registering organizations include:

American Kennel Club (AKC): "Saluki" - Recognized in the Hound Group since 1929. The AKC standard acknowledges both smooth and feathered coat varieties, emphasizing the breed's graceful build, speed, and endurance. Website: https://www.akc.org

United Kennel Club (UKC): "Saluki" - Registered in the Sighthound and Pariah Group. The UKC standard closely mirrors the AKC version but places additional emphasis on the breed's hunting capabilities and functional structure. Website: https://www.ukcdogs.com

Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI): "Saluki" - Classified in Group 10, Section 1 (Long-haired or fringed Sighthounds). The FCI standard represents the international consensus and is used by kennel clubs in Europe, Asia, and Latin America. Website: https://www.fci.be

The Kennel Club (UK): "Saluki" - Registered in the Hound Group since 1923. The British standard was among the first formal standards created for the breed and heavily influenced subsequent standards worldwide. Website: https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk

Canadian Kennel Club (CKC): "Saluki" - Listed in the Hound Group. The CKC standard aligns closely with the AKC standard, maintaining consistency across North American registries. Website: https://www.ckc.ca

The national breed club in the United States, the Saluki Club of America, was founded in 1927 and serves as the AKC parent club. This organization maintains the breed standard, provides educational resources about Saluki history and care, coordinates rescue efforts, and sanctions specialty shows dedicated to the breed. Similar national clubs exist in the United Kingdom, Australia, and across Europe, each working to preserve the Saluki's distinctive characteristics while promoting responsible breeding practices.

Breed standards across all organizations emphasize the Saluki's elegant, balanced build designed for speed and endurance. Key characteristics include a long, narrow head with large, dark eyes; small, mobile ears; a deep chest with well-sprung ribs; powerful hindquarters; and long, webbed feet. The standards recognize considerable color variation and two coat types, reflecting the breed's geographic diversity in its native lands. Show classifications place Salukis in performance and conformation events, and the breed also competes in lure coursing, where their natural hunting instincts and incredible speed are showcased. Some countries offer working certifications that test the Saluki's traditional coursing abilities in controlled field settings.

The Saluki embodies grace, speed, and endurance in a harmonious package built for coursing game across desert terrain. This ancient sighthound presents an unmistakable silhouette characterized by elegant lines, substantial depth of chest, and remarkable length of leg relative to body size. The overall impression should be one of symmetry, balance, and athletic capability rather than fragility, despite the breed's refined appearance.

The head is long and narrow with a barely perceptible stop, creating a smooth transition from skull to muzzle. The skull itself is moderately wide between the ears, flat in profile, and tapers gently toward the nose. Large, oval-shaped eyes convey a gentle yet dignified expression, ranging from dark to hazel depending on coat color. The gaze is far-seeing, reflecting the breed's heritage as a coursing hound that must spot movement at great distances. Ears are long and mobile, covered with silky hair, and hang close to the skull when relaxed but become alert and lifted when the dog is attentive.

The muzzle is strong without coarseness, approximately equal in length to the skull, with powerful jaws capable of gripping prey. Dentition meets in a scissors or level bite, and the nose is black or liver depending on coat color. The long, supple neck flows smoothly into well-laid-back shoulders, creating the reach necessary for a galloping stride. The topline shows a slight arch over the loin, an essential feature that provides the flexibility needed for the double-suspension gallop characteristic of sighthounds.

The chest is deep and moderately narrow, extending nearly to the elbows, providing ample room for heart and lungs while maintaining the streamlined build necessary for speed. Ribs are well-sprung but not barrel-shaped, and the abdomen shows a pronounced tuck-up, creating the distinctive waist seen in all coursing breeds. The croup is sloping, providing powerful drive from the rear quarters. The tail is long, set low, and carried in a gentle curve with feathering on the underside in the feathered variety.

Forelegs are straight and long, with strong but flexible pasterns that absorb shock during the gallop. The shoulders are well laid back, allowing for maximum forward reach. Hindquarters are muscular and well-angulated, with hocks well let down and turning neither in nor out. The feet are of moderate length with well-arched toes and thick, protective pads, often webbed between the toes to provide traction in sand. Dewclaws may be removed.

The Saluki comes in two recognized coat varieties: smooth and feathered. The smooth variety has short hair all over the body, while the feathered variety displays silky feathering on the ears, tail, between the toes, and on the backs of the legs. Both coat types feature a soft, silky texture that lies flat against the body, providing minimal insulation as befits a desert breed. The coat requires little maintenance and naturally repels dirt.

Color variation is extensive and all colors or color combinations are acceptable. Common colors include white, cream, fawn, golden red, grizzle and tan, tricolor (white, black, and tan), and black and tan. Some dogs display a dark mask or black tipping on the ears. This diversity reflects the breed's wide geographic distribution across the Middle East and North Africa, where different tribal groups prized different color preferences.

Sexual dimorphism is noticeable, with males standing 23 to 28 inches at the shoulder and females typically measuring slightly smaller, though the standard emphasizes proportion and balance over specific size requirements. Weight ranges from 40 to 65 pounds, with males at the higher end. Despite their lean appearance, Salukis are surprisingly substantial when handled, possessing strong bone and well-developed musculature beneath their refined exterior.

Movement is the ultimate test of correct Saluki structure. At a trot, the gait should be smooth, effortless, and ground-covering, with the topline remaining level. At full gallop, the Saluki demonstrates the power and speed for which it was bred, capable of reaching speeds over 40 miles per hour while maintaining agility to turn and pursue fleeing game. The gallop shows significant extension and flexibility, with all four feet leaving the ground twice in each stride cycle. This athletic prowess, combined with stamina to maintain speed over considerable distances, defines the breed's essential character and purpose.

The Saluki stands as one of the world's oldest domesticated dog breeds, with archaeological and artistic evidence suggesting its presence in the Middle East dates back more than 5,000 years. Ancient Egyptian tombs from around 2100 BCE contain carvings and paintings depicting dogs remarkably similar to modern Salukis, often shown accompanying pharaohs and nobility on hunting expeditions. In ancient Mesopotamia, Sumerian carvings from approximately 7000 BCE show long-legged, narrow-bodied dogs that many scholars believe represent early ancestors of today's Saluki.

The breed developed across a vast geographic region encompassing the Arabian Peninsula, Persia, Syria, Egypt, and surrounding areas. Unlike many modern breeds that were created through deliberate crossbreeding programs, the Saluki evolved through centuries of natural selection and selective breeding by nomadic Bedouin tribes who valued the dogs for their hunting prowess. These desert peoples prized their hunting hounds above all other possessions except their Arabian horses, and Salukis often shared their owners' tents, an extraordinary honor in cultures where dogs were generally considered unclean animals.

The Saluki's primary purpose was coursing game, particularly gazelle and hare, in harsh desert environments where speed, endurance, and keen sight were essential for survival. Bedouin hunters traditionally rode horses or camels while their Salukis pursued prey, often hunting in pairs that worked cooperatively to bring down swift quarry. This hunting method required dogs capable of reaching tremendous speeds while maintaining enough stamina to course for extended periods across difficult terrain. The breed's webbed feet evolved to provide traction in sand, while their lean build with minimal body fat suited the extreme desert climate.

Different tribes across the region maintained distinct lines of Salukis, each adapted to local conditions and prey species. This resulted in considerable variation within the breed regarding size, coat type, and color. Some regions favored smooth-coated dogs for easier maintenance in harsh climates, while others preferred the feathered variety. Despite these differences, all lines maintained the essential sighthound structure designed for coursing at high speeds. The Islamic tradition generally considered dogs unclean, but Salukis received special exemption due to their hunting value and noble bearing, being called "El Hor," meaning "the noble one."

European travelers and military personnel stationed in the Middle East during the 19th and early 20th centuries encountered Salukis and brought examples back to England. The Honorable Florence Amherst imported some of the first Salukis to England in 1895, and interest gradually grew among dog fanciers fascinated by the breed's exotic origins and elegant appearance. The Kennel Club in Britain officially recognized the Saluki in 1923, establishing the first formal breed standard based on dogs imported from Arabia and Persia.

The breed gained recognition by the American Kennel Club in 1929, though numbers remained relatively small in the United States for several decades. World War II disrupted breeding programs in Europe, but dedicated fanciers maintained their lines and continued importing new dogs from the Middle East to diversify the gene pool. The Saluki Club of America, founded in 1927, worked to preserve the breed's traditional type while adapting care practices to Western climates and lifestyles significantly different from the desert environments where the breed originated.

Throughout the latter half of the 20th century, Salukis transitioned from working hunters to primarily companion animals and show dogs in Western countries, though some enthusiasts maintained the breed's coursing abilities through lure coursing competitions. In their native lands, traditional hunting with Salukis declined as modernization changed lifestyles, though some Bedouin tribes continue the ancient practice. Today's Saluki retains the physical structure, temperament, and instincts shaped by thousands of years of desert life, making these dogs living connections to human civilization's earliest partnerships with domesticated canines. The breed remains relatively rare compared to more popular sight hounds, appealing primarily to those who appreciate their unique history, independent nature, and striking beauty.

The Saluki possesses a distinctive temperament that reflects thousands of years of breeding for hunting alongside nomadic peoples in harsh desert environments. These dogs exhibit a reserved, dignified manner quite different from the exuberant friendliness of many popular breeds. They form strong bonds with their families but express affection subtly rather than through constant attention-seeking behavior. This independence stems from their working heritage, where Salukis needed to make split-second decisions while pursuing prey far from their handlers.

Gentleness defines the Saluki's character when interacting with trusted family members. These dogs rarely show aggression toward humans and prefer to retreat from uncomfortable situations rather than respond with defensive behavior. Their sensitivity means they do not respond well to harsh corrections or loud, chaotic environments. A Saluki raised in a calm, consistent household develops into a loyal companion who enjoys quiet companionship, though they will never become the type of dog that demands constant interaction or performs tricks for entertainment.

With strangers, Salukis maintain polite distance, neither hostile nor particularly welcoming. They typically observe newcomers with detached interest, eventually accepting individuals who respect their space but rarely becoming enthusiastically friendly with people outside their immediate family. This reserved nature should not be confused with shyness or fearfulness; properly socialized Salukis display confidence in new situations, simply choosing not to engage unless they desire interaction.

The breed's intelligence manifests differently than in eager-to-please working dogs like retrievers or herding breeds. Salukis are capable learners who understand commands readily but possess an independent mindset that questions the purpose of repetitive obedience exercises. They excel at tasks they find meaningful, particularly activities that engage their coursing instincts, but may appear stubborn when asked to perform behaviors they consider pointless. This quality requires owners to approach training with patience and creativity, offering motivation through rewards rather than insisting on compliance through force.

Prey drive represents perhaps the most significant behavioral characteristic potential owners must understand. Centuries of selective breeding for hunting created dogs with intense instincts to chase and catch moving prey. A Saluki's personality transforms dramatically when they spot something running—the normally calm, gentle companion becomes a focused predator capable of reaching speeds over 40 miles per hour within seconds. This instinct cannot be trained away; it remains hardwired into every Saluki regardless of how many generations removed from working hunters. Small pets, including cats, often trigger this response, making Salukis unreliable housemates for households with rabbits, guinea pigs, or other small animals.

Despite their hunting heritage, Salukis display remarkable gentleness indoors, moving through homes with grace and avoiding destructive behavior when properly exercised. They appreciate comfortable resting spots and spend much of their indoor time sleeping or lounging, conserving energy for explosive bursts of speed. Many Salukis enjoy elevated resting places where they can observe their surroundings, another trait linked to their history as sight hounds who needed good vantage points to spot distant prey.

Vocalization is infrequent in well-adjusted Salukis. Unlike breeds prone to barking at every stimulus, these dogs remain relatively quiet, alerting their owners only to genuinely unusual occurrences. Some individuals develop unique vocalizations, including melodious howling when excited or demanding attention, but excessive barking typically indicates boredom, anxiety, or inadequate exercise. Their quiet nature makes them suitable for living situations where noise concerns exist, provided their substantial exercise requirements can be met.

Salukis generally coexist peacefully with other dogs, particularly fellow sighthounds who share their temperament and exercise needs. Their pack mentality, developed through centuries of hunting in groups, helps them integrate into multi-dog households smoothly. However, their play style differs from many breeds—they prefer racing games and chase over wrestling or tug-of-war. Introductions to new dogs should proceed gradually, allowing the naturally reserved Saluki to assess the newcomer before close interaction begins.

Individual variation exists within the breed, with some Salukis displaying more outgoing personalities than others. Early socialization significantly influences how confidently a Saluki approaches new experiences, though the fundamental reserved nature persists regardless of upbringing. Prospective owners seeking a dog who greets everyone enthusiastically, learns tricks readily, or provides constant entertainment will find themselves disappointed by the Saluki's aristocratic aloofness. Those who appreciate a elegant, independent companion who bonds deeply with family while maintaining dignified composure will discover a uniquely rewarding relationship with this ancient breed.

The ideal home for a Saluki provides space for exercise, a calm environment, and owners who understand and appreciate the breed's independent nature. These dogs adapt to various family structures but thrive best with adults or families with older children who have learned to respect a dog's need for personal space. Young children's unpredictable movements and loud play can stress sensitive Salukis, and the breed's lean build makes them vulnerable to injury from rough handling. Families with elementary-aged or older children who can interact gently find Salukis to be patient, tolerant companions.

Living space requirements extend beyond simple square footage to include secure outdoor areas where Salukis can exercise safely. While these dogs remain calm indoors, they need regular opportunities for full-speed running to maintain physical and mental health. A securely fenced yard with at least five to six-foot fencing is essential, as Salukis can jump considerable heights when motivated by prey. Underground electronic fences prove inadequate since a Saluki's prey drive easily overrides discomfort from correction stimulation once they lock onto a moving target.

Apartment living is feasible for Salukis provided owners commit to providing adequate exercise through daily trips to secure dog parks or participation in lure coursing activities. Their quiet, calm indoor behavior makes them better apartment residents than many high-energy breeds, but the responsibility for meeting their exercise needs falls entirely on owners when private yard space is unavailable. Urban environments pose challenges due to the need for consistent off-leash running opportunities and the presence of numerous small animals that trigger hunting instincts.

Rural or suburban settings often suit Salukis better than urban locations, offering more opportunities for safe exercise and fewer tempting distractions. However, even country properties require secure fencing, as Salukis will pursue interesting scents or movements well beyond property boundaries, potentially traveling miles while chasing prey. Their poor street sense and intense focus while coursing make them vulnerable to traffic accidents if they escape confinement. Invisible fences or tie-outs are never acceptable containment methods for this breed.

Climate considerations are significant for Saluki owners. These desert-adapted dogs tolerate heat better than cold, possessing minimal body fat and relatively short coats that provide little insulation. In cold climates, Salukis require protective clothing during outdoor activities and appreciate warm indoor spaces. They should never be kept outdoors in cold weather. Conversely, their heat tolerance does not mean they should exercise during extreme temperatures; like all dogs, they risk overheating during intense activity in hot conditions.

Multi-pet households require careful evaluation before adding a Saluki. While these dogs typically coexist peacefully with other canines, especially fellow sighthounds, their strong prey drive creates serious concerns regarding small pets. Cats may or may not be accepted depending on individual temperament, early socialization, and whether the cat was present before the Saluki arrived. Even Salukis raised with cats from puppyhood may chase unfamiliar cats, and strange small animals always trigger hunting instincts. Households with rabbits, guinea pigs, birds, or other small pets face substantial risk of predatory behavior that owners cannot reliably prevent.

Time requirements for Saluki ownership extend beyond basic feeding and exercise. These dogs form deep bonds with their families and experience stress when left alone for extended periods regularly. While less prone to destructive separation anxiety than some breeds, lonely Salukis may develop behavioral problems or become withdrawn. Prospective owners who work long hours should carefully consider whether they can provide sufficient companionship and exercise within their schedules. Some Salukis adjust well to having canine companions who provide company during owner absences, though individual dogs vary in their tolerance for alone time.

The Saluki's exercise needs create significant daily commitments. Beyond regular walks, these dogs require opportunities for full-speed galloping several times weekly to maintain fitness and satisfy their coursing drives. Participation in organized activities like lure coursing provides ideal outlets, but many owners create opportunities through trips to large, securely fenced areas where their Salukis can run safely. Morning or evening exercise sessions lasting thirty to sixty minutes, combined with weekly galloping opportunities, represent minimum requirements for maintaining a healthy, well-adjusted Saluki.

Noise sensitivity varies among individuals, but many Salukis prefer quiet households where they can relax without constant stimulation. Homes with frequent visitors, loud music, or chaotic activity may stress sensitive individuals who retreat to quiet spaces when overwhelmed. This preference makes them particularly suitable for empty-nesters, retirees, or working professionals who value peaceful home environments. The breed's dignified composure and minimal vocalization contribute to harmonious household atmospheres when their exercise and companionship needs are adequately met.

Training a Saluki requires understanding that these independent thinkers approach learning differently than eager-to-please breeds. Their intelligence is unquestionable, but their motivation stems from internal interest rather than desire for human approval. Successful training methods emphasize positive reinforcement through food rewards, play, or opportunities to engage in activities the dog finds naturally rewarding. Harsh corrections damage the trust essential for productive training relationships with this sensitive breed and typically result in a dog who shuts down or becomes avoidant rather than one who complies more readily.

Socialization should begin early and continue throughout the Saluki's life. Exposing puppies to various people, places, sounds, and experiences between eight and sixteen weeks establishes the foundation for confident adult behavior. Well-socialized Salukis handle novel situations with calm curiosity rather than fearful reactions, though they maintain their characteristic reserve with strangers. Puppy kindergarten classes provide controlled environments for learning basic manners while interacting with other young dogs, building social skills that serve them throughout their lives.

Basic obedience training focuses on essential behaviors like reliable recall, loose-leash walking, and polite greetings. Recall training deserves particular emphasis given the Saluki's prey drive and tendency to ignore commands when focused on potential quarry. Training should occur in progressively more distracting environments, always in securely enclosed areas until the dog demonstrates absolute reliability. Even well-trained Salukis should never be trusted off-leash in unfenced areas, as their instincts can override training when they spot running prey.

Exercise requirements for Salukis are substantial and non-negotiable for maintaining physical health and appropriate behavior. Daily walks of thirty to sixty minutes provide baseline activity, but these elegant athletes need regular opportunities for full-speed galloping to satisfy their coursing instincts and maintain the muscular development their structure requires. Owners without access to securely fenced areas large enough for running should seek out dog parks with adequate space or consider participation in organized lure coursing events.

Lure coursing represents an ideal activity for Salukis, allowing them to exercise their natural hunting behaviors in controlled, safe environments. These events use mechanized lures that zigzag across fields, mimicking the movements of fleeing prey while dogs chase at full speed. Most Salukis take to lure coursing instinctively, requiring little training beyond learning to wait for the starting signal. Participation in coursing provides excellent cardiovascular exercise while strengthening the bonds between owners and dogs through shared activity. Many kennel clubs sanction lure coursing trials where Salukis can earn performance titles demonstrating their coursing ability.

Mental enrichment activities complement physical exercise by engaging the Saluki's intelligence. Puzzle toys that dispense treats, scent work games that challenge their remarkable noses, and training sessions teaching new behaviors provide cognitive stimulation that tires dogs mentally. Bored Salukis may develop undesirable behaviors like excessive sleeping, withdrawal, or inappropriate chewing, so incorporating variety into their routines maintains their interest and engagement.

Leash training requires patience, as Salukis possess strong prey drive that manifests in pulling toward interesting sights, sounds, or scents during walks. Teaching loose-leash walking through positive reinforcement methods prevents the development of pulling habits that make walks frustrating for both dog and owner. Using properly fitted martingale collars or harnesses designed for sighthounds prevents escape and ensures safety during training. Retractable leashes are inappropriate for Salukis due to safety concerns and inadequate control.

Advanced training and dog sports beyond lure coursing may appeal to some Saluki owners. Rally obedience, trick training, and even agility can provide enjoyable outlets for this breed's abilities when approached as cooperative games rather than rigid obedience exercises. Salukis excel at activities allowing them to problem-solve and make decisions, though their jumping prowess in agility requires careful conditioning to prevent injury. Owners should recognize that while Salukis can learn virtually anything, their independent nature means they may choose not to perform behaviors they find pointless or repetitive, regardless of their training level.

The Saluki generally enjoys good health and longevity compared to many purebred dogs, with individuals frequently living twelve to fourteen years when provided appropriate care. Their ancient heritage and relatively limited human manipulation of breed type has preserved genetic diversity that protects against some health problems plaguing more recently developed breeds. However, like all purebred dogs, Salukis face certain health conditions that responsible breeders screen for and that owners should monitor throughout their dogs' lives.

Maintaining appropriate body condition is particularly important for Salukis, as these naturally lean dogs should display visible ribs and prominent hip bones without appearing emaciated. Overweight Salukis face increased stress on joints and cardiovascular systems, while underweight individuals may lack energy reserves for their active lifestyles. Regular veterinary care combined with attention to diet, exercise, and early intervention when problems arise helps Salukis enjoy their full potential lifespan as healthy, active companions. Owners who understand breed-specific health concerns and work closely with knowledgeable veterinarians provide their Salukis the best opportunities for long, healthy lives.

Salukis rank among the lowest-maintenance breeds regarding grooming requirements, possessing naturally clean coats that repel dirt and rarely develop the characteristic dog odor found in many breeds. Both smooth and feathered coat varieties require minimal intervention to maintain their elegant appearance. Weekly brushing with a soft bristle brush or grooming mitt removes loose hair and distributes natural skin oils, keeping coats healthy and lustrous. During seasonal shedding periods in spring and fall, more frequent brushing helps manage the increased hair loss, though Salukis shed less than many breeds.

The feathered variety requires slightly more attention to the longer hair on ears, tail, legs, and feet. A metal comb helps prevent tangles in the silky feathering, which should be gently worked through weekly to maintain its flowing appearance. The feathering between toes collects debris during outdoor activities and benefits from regular inspection and cleaning. Some owners trim the hair between foot pads for cleanliness and easier maintenance, though this is optional. Ear feathering requires particular attention after meals or drinks, as it can become soiled and matted if not kept clean.

Bathing should occur only when necessary, typically every six to eight weeks or when the dog becomes genuinely dirty. Frequent bathing strips natural oils from the coat and skin, potentially causing dryness and irritation. When bathing is required, using mild, dog-specific shampoos protects the Saluki's sensitive skin. Thorough rinsing ensures no shampoo residue remains to cause itching or dullness. The thin coat dries quickly, often requiring no more than towel-drying, though blow-drying on a cool setting expedites the process in cold weather.

Nail care requires regular attention, as Salukis' nails grow continuously and can become uncomfortably long if neglected. Most Salukis require nail trimming every three to four weeks, though dogs who exercise frequently on abrasive surfaces may naturally wear their nails sufficiently. Using proper nail clippers designed for dogs and avoiding the quick (the blood vessel inside each nail) prevents pain and bleeding. Dogs uncomfortable with nail trimming benefit from gradual desensitization training that makes the process less stressful for everyone involved.

Ear cleaning should occur regularly, particularly for feathered Salukis whose ear leather and long ear hair can trap moisture and debris. Gentle cleaning with veterinarian-approved ear cleaning solution and cotton balls removes accumulated wax and dirt while allowing air circulation that helps prevent infections. Ears should smell clean and appear pink without redness, excessive wax, or discharge. Any signs of ear problems warrant veterinary examination to rule out infections or other issues requiring treatment.

Dental care represents one of the most important yet frequently neglected aspects of grooming. Daily tooth brushing with dog-specific toothpaste prevents tartar buildup, gum disease, and the tooth loss that affects many dogs as they age. Dogs unaccustomed to tooth brushing require gradual introduction to the process, but most Salukis tolerate it well once it becomes routine. Dental chews and toys designed to reduce plaque provide supplemental support but cannot replace actual brushing. Regular veterinary dental examinations identify problems requiring professional cleaning or treatment.

The Saluki's lean build and thin skin make them prone to cuts and scrapes during vigorous exercise, particularly when running through brush or rough terrain. Regular inspection of the body, legs, and feet after outdoor activities allows early detection and treatment of minor injuries before they become infected or more serious. Their prominent hip bones and spine require consideration when selecting bedding and resting surfaces; well-padded beds prevent pressure sores and provide comfort for these bony dogs.

Compared to breeds requiring professional grooming, extensive coat care, or dealing with significant shedding and odor, the Saluki's grooming needs are refreshingly straightforward. Their natural cleanliness, combined with minimal grooming requirements, makes them practical choices for owners who appreciate elegant appearance without the time commitment that heavily-coated breeds demand. The modest investment of weekly brushing, occasional baths, and routine nail and dental care maintains the Saluki's refined beauty throughout their lives.

If you're looking to adopt an Arabian Sighthound, consider contacting these breed-specific rescue organizations:

"Don't Shop... Please Adopt" - There are many wonderful Arabian Sighthounds waiting for their forever homes.