Breed of the Day : Saluki

Saluki


HISTORY :

• "Royal Dog of Egypt" or "Persian Greyhound"
• Rock art images in central Iran depicting Saluki images dating from 8,000 to 10,000 BCE
• Saluki images on Egyptian tombs dating to 2134 BCE
• Connections to the Koran and Imperial China
• Breeding in the west began in 1895
• AKC registration in 1929
• Mascot of Southern Illinois University Carbondale

(A detailed history can be found at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saluki.)


TEMPERAMENT :

• Gentle
• Friendly
• Loyal
• Good with children - Note that the children must not be overly playful and rough
• Training - Calm, Gentle, Consistent, & Firm a MUST...The Saluki is a sensitive breed that will not respond to "harsh discipline"
• Easily distracted
• Good as a watchdog
• Hunting instinct to chase and kill non-canine animals
• Obedience training a MUST to keep hunting instinct under control
• Okay with pet cat(s) as long as the cat(s) show dominance over the breed

PHYSICAL TRAIT :

• Average weight : 29 - 66 pounds

HEALTH :

• Prone to genetic eye diseases
• Prone to cancer
• Can get sunburn

LIVING CONDITIONS :

• NO APARTMENTS
• Needs plentiful outdoor space
• Sleep indoors
• Prefer warm climates

EXERCISE :

• "Natural athlete"
• Daily exercise - walk or run...Running is preferred
• Naturally independent - NEVER LET OFF LEASH UNLESS IN A SECURED ENVIRONMENT...WILL NOT RESPOND TO OWNER IF ON A CHASE
• Run 40+ mph...Feet barely touch the ground
• Sprint and Long distance capability

LIFE EXPECTANCY :

• 10 - 12 years

(Temperament, Physical Trait, Health, Living Conditions, Exercise, Life Expectancy source - http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/saluki.htm)