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Characteristics, History, and Health
Saluki
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Basepaws analyzes this breed as part of a group that also includes Saluki, Tazi.
Despite being distinct in characteristics and origin, some pairs or groups of breeds lack the number of genetic differences required to distinguish these populations from one another, particularly when only a subset of these differences are inherited by a mixed breed dog. As we continue to expand our breed database, we aim to increase the resolution of our ancestry algorithm such that differentiating between increasingly specific ancestral sources becomes possible.
The Saluki, also known as the Persian Greyhound or the Gazelle Hound, is one of the oldest known breeds of domesticated dogs. Salukis were originally bred in the Fertile Crescent, the cradle of civilization that extends through parts of the present-day Middle East, including modern Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, Israel, Palestine, Jordan, Egypt, and parts of Iran and Turkey. The breed's name comes from the ancient city of Saluk, in Yemen, although its historical origins are up for debate. They were bred for speed, strength, and endurance, traits needed for hunting in harsh desert environments. Salukis are even mentioned in the Bible and depicted on Egyptian tombs dating back to 2100 B.C.
Main Info
- Origin
- Fertile Crescent (present-day Middle East)
- Lineage
- Sighthound Lineage
- Alternate Names
- Persian Hound, Gazelle Hound
- Life Expectancy
- 10-17 years
- Average Male Height
- 23-28 inches
- Average Female Height
- 17-20 inches
- Average Male Weight
- 40-65 pounds
- Average Female Weight
- 40-65 pounds
- Coat Length
- Short
- Coat Type
- Smooth
- Coat Colors
- Black & Tan, Black Tan & White, Cream, Fawn, Golden, Red, Silver, White, Chocolate, Chocolate & Tan, Black, Black & Silver
- Coat Pattern
- Parti-Color, Sable, Grizzle Markings, Irish Marked, Irish Marked Grizzle, Parti-Color Grizzle, Irish Marked Sable, Sable Parti-Color
Genetic Predispositions and Health
Salukis are known to be generally healthy dogs, but as a larger breed they are at risk for developing orthopedic problems, such as hip and elbow dysplasia. Genetic testing is recommended, including for the following specific conditions: hyperuricosoria, degenerative myelopathy, and progressive rod-cone degeneration.
Personality and Behavior
Salukis are known for their intelligence, independence, and aloofness. They can be reserved, even with family, and are typically cautious around strangers. Despite their aloof nature, Salukis require a good amount of love and companionship from their families. They're gentle and affectionate, but not overly demonstrative. Salukis have a strong instinct to chase and should not be trusted off-leash in an unfenced area, as they may not be able to resist the urge to chase after small animals.
Sighthound Lineage
A canine genetic lineage is a group of individuals or entire breeds that descended from common ancestors predating modern breed formation. Often these lineages are associated with a ‘type’ of dog with a unique historical working role and associated behaviors (e.g., herding, scent hunting, etc.).
Sighthound breeds date back thousands of years, they were bred for speed and agility. The physical characteristics of sighthounds include long lean bodies with a deep chest and long legs and allow them to run fast over short distances. Sighthounds are excellent hunters for fast-moving prey while using their sight rather than scent to find and follow their prey. They tend to be independent, but also gentle and affectionate with their families.
Example breeds with ancestry from this lineage include Greyhound, Irish Wolfhound, and Whippet.
Fun Facts
Salukis have two types of coats - smooth and "feathered". The feathered Saluki has silky flowing hair on the ears, tail, and the backs of the legs. The smooth variety, as the name suggests, has short hair all over.
The Saluki is often called a "gazelle hound" due to its incredible speed and agility. It can reach speeds up to 42 miles per hour, making it one of the fastest dog breeds.
Despite their high energy and athleticism, Salukis are often described as "cat-like" due to their independent and aloof nature.
In their native Middle East, Salukis are so highly esteemed that they're often considered "clean" dogs, according to Islamic dietary laws, which is a significant honor in Muslim culture.
References
https://vgl.ucdavis.edu/breed/saluki?page=1
https://www.fci.be/en/nomenclature/SALUKI-269.html
https://www.ukcdogs.com/Saluki
https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/saluki/
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