9 Special Traits of Saluki Dogs
Salukis: What It's Really Like to Live With This Ancient, Elegant Hound
If you’ve ever seen a Saluki in motion, you know how breathtaking they are. Graceful, fast, and refined, these dogs are a piece of living history — once prized by royalty, now quietly lounging in modern living rooms (when they’re not sprinting like cheetahs). But owning a Saluki isn’t like owning your average dog.
Here’s what you really need to know before bringing one home.
What Makes Salukis So Special?
Salukis are one of the oldest dog breeds on record — we’re talking ancient Egypt old. These dogs were bred to hunt fast game like gazelles, which explains their insane speed (up to 45 mph!) and lean, aerodynamic build.
But they’re not just athletes. Salukis are quiet, sensitive, and surprisingly low-maintenance in many ways — but they come with their own unique set of needs.
The Good Stuff
1. Calm, Smart, and Independent
Salukis are incredibly intelligent, but not in a mischievous or hyper way. They’re calm thinkers, not curious troublemakers. They won’t tear up your house out of boredom, and many can handle being home alone better than other breeds. That said, they still need love and attention — they’re just not clingy about it.
2. Polite and Quiet
If you can’t stand barking, a Saluki might just be your dream dog. They’re not watchdogs or barkers, and they’re typically polite with strangers. Early socialization is important, though — without it, they can become shy or skittish around new people.
3. Beautiful, Low-Shedding Coats
Salukis have silky, short coats that barely shed and are easy to care for. A quick brush every now and then is usually enough. They’re not hypoallergenic, but they’re about as close as you’ll get without the official label.
4. Gentle With Kids and Other Dogs
Thanks to their mellow nature, Salukis can be great with children and other dogs — especially when they’re raised together. They’re not aggressive or territorial, though they do best in homes where roughhousing isn’t the norm.
5. Fast and Athletic (If That’s Your Thing)
If you’re a runner, or you have a big fenced yard and want a dog who LOVES to sprint, the Saluki is made for you. Watching them run is pure poetry.
The Challenging Stuff
1. They’re Fragile
That elegant frame? It comes with a downside. Salukis have very little body fat, so even minor bumps can cause bruising. They need soft places to rest, and a household that’s not too chaotic. If you’ve got rambunctious kids or a cluttered home, this may not be the best match.
2. Serious Prey Drive
Salukis were bred to chase — and they will chase anything small and fast. Cats, rabbits, squirrels, even small dogs. No matter how well-trained they are, once that prey drive kicks in, they’re gone. That means:
- Always walk them on a leash.
- Only let them run free in very secure, fully fenced areas.
- Think twice if you have small pets at home.
3. Yard Must Be Escape-Proof
Salukis can jump, and a regular fence often won’t cut it. You’ll need a secure, tall (6 ft+) fence if you want them to enjoy off-leash time in your backyard.
4. Sensitive Souls
These dogs are emotionally sensitive. They don’t do well with chaos, yelling, or major changes. Moving houses, losing a companion, or even a shift in routine can really throw them off. They thrive best in calm, stable homes.
Is a Saluki Right for You?
Salukis are perfect for people who:
- Want a quiet, elegant dog that doesn’t bark much
- Have a calm home with soft spots for lounging
- Can provide a large, enclosed area for running
- Don’t mind a dog that’s more independent than playful
- Don’t have small pets (or are super confident in their training)
If that sounds like your lifestyle, a Saluki could be a beautiful companion. Just know that this isn’t a dog for everyone — and that’s okay.
Getting Ready for a Saluki
If you’ve decided to bring a Saluki home, here’s what you’ll want to have ready:
- A fully fenced yard (at least 6 feet tall)
- Soft bedding and floor cushions (they’re not fans of hard surfaces)
- A sturdy leash and harness (and no off-leash walks unless it’s a fenced park)
- A plan for early socialization and gentle training
Salukis are a fascinating blend of ancient lineage and delicate grace. They’re not your typical family dog, but for the right person, they’re absolutely extraordinary.