The Saluki looks like it was drawn by someone who understood beauty at a molecular level. Long, impossibly elegant legs. A narrow, aristocratic face framed by silky, feathered ears that wouldn’t be out of place in a Renaissance painting. A body so lean and sculpted that first-time viewers genuinely ask whether the dog is underweight. (It’s not. That’s just what a Saluki looks like.)
Then it runs. And suddenly the ethereal, lounging creature that spent the afternoon draped across your couch like a living throw blanket transforms into one of the fastest animals on earth — reaching speeds of up to 69 km/h (43 mph), fast enough to earn a Guinness World Record. The Saluki, also known as the Persian Greyhound or the Royal Dog of Egypt, has been doing exactly this for roughly 7,000 years. Carvings on Sumerian tombs, paintings in Egyptian pharaohs’ burial chambers, and references in the Quran all feature this dog. They are, by many accounts, the oldest domesticated dog breed in the world.
In Australia, the Saluki is a rare and deeply rewarding breed for the right owner. If you’re here because you’ve been captivated by those soulful eyes and wondering whether a Saluki belongs in your life, this guide covers everything: temperament (it’s complicated), exercise (non-negotiable), health, Australian breeders, costs, and the honest realities of living with a sighthound.
What You’ll Learn
- Breed traits & temperament
- Health concerns to know
- True cost in Australia
- Training & exercise needs
- Is this breed right for you?
Breed Quick Facts Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Breed Group | Hounds (ANKC Group 4) |
| Origin | Middle East (Fertile Crescent — Iran, Iraq, Syria, Arabia) |
| Also Known As | Persian Greyhound, Gazelle Hound, Royal Dog of Egypt, Arabian Saluki |
| Height (Male) | 58–71 cm (23–28 inches) |
| Height (Female) | 56–68 cm (considerably smaller) |
| Weight | 16–30 kg (35–65 lb) — large variation between sexes |
| Lifespan | 10–17 years (wide range; healthy individuals often reach 14+) |
| Coat Varieties | Feathered (silky fringes on ears, tail, legs) or Smooth (short all over, no feathering) |
| Colours | Any colour or combination — white, cream, fawn, golden, red, tricolour, black & tan, grizzle |
| Shedding | Minimal — low-shedding breed with virtually no doggy odour |
| Temperament | Gentle, dignified, independent, loyal, reserved with strangers, sensitive |
| Exercise Needs | High — daily off-lead sprinting in a secure, fenced area essential |
| Good with Kids | Best with older children — too sensitive for rough handling |
| Top Speed | Up to 69 km/h (43 mph) — Guinness World Record holder |
| Puppy Price (AUD) | $4,000–$6,000+ from registered ANKC breeders |
History & Origins
The Saluki’s history stretches back further than almost any other domesticated animal. Rock art and petroglyphs from central Iran dating to approximately 8000–10000 BCE depict Saluki-like hounds alongside hunters and falcons. Pottery from Susa (modern Iran, circa 4200 BCE) shows remarkably similar dogs chasing ibex. Egyptian tombs from 2134 BCE onwards feature Salukis prominently — and the dogs were so revered that pharaohs had them mummified to accompany them into the afterlife.
The breed was the indispensable hunting companion of Bedouin nomadic tribes across the Middle East, from the Sahara to the Caspian Sea and along the Silk Road into China. They hunted gazelle, hare, fox, and jackal using their extraordinary speed and keen eyesight — earning the classification “sighthound,” meaning they hunt by sight rather than scent.
Bedouin hunting methods were remarkable. In one technique, a mounted hunter would hold a Saluki while riding a camel at speed toward prey, then throw the dog to give it a running start. In another, a falcon would first blind the quarry, allowing the Saluki to bring it down. This partnership between Saluki and falcon persists in parts of the Middle East today.
The breed name likely derives from the ancient city of Saluq (or Seleucia) in modern Iraq. In Muslim tradition, the Saluki is regarded as a gift from Allah and, unlike most dogs, was considered clean and permitted to live in tents with families. The breed was never sold — only given as gifts of honour.
Western breeding began in 1895 when Florence Amherst imported a pair from Egypt to England. The British Kennel Club recognised the breed in 1922, the AKC in 1927, and the FCI followed suit. In Australia, the Saluki has a dedicated but niche following, with ANKC-registered breeders across most states and an active lure coursing community. Dogs Queensland notes the breed’s ANKC registrations have been gradually declining, making responsible breeding more important than ever for the breed’s future in this country.
Temperament & Personality
The Saluki temperament is not for everyone — and breeders will tell you that upfront. This is not a Golden Retriever. It’s not going to greet strangers with a wagging tail, fetch the ball a hundred times, or live to please you. The Saluki is an ancient, independent breed with a personality closer to a cat than to most dogs.
They are quiet, gentle, and deeply devoted to their family — but that devotion is expressed subtly. A Saluki will sit beside you, lean against you, follow you from room to room. They’re affectionate on their own terms and in their own time. They can be reserved, even aloof with strangers, and some are genuinely shy without adequate socialisation.
They’re intelligent, but their intelligence is independent rather than biddable. A Saluki understands what you want; it simply reserves the right to decide whether it wants the same thing. This can look like stubbornness, but it’s better understood as the temperament of a dog that was bred to make split-second hunting decisions without human direction.
For the right person, absolutely. Salukis are calm, quiet indoors (many owners describe them as “cat-like”), low-shedding, virtually odour-free, and form profound bonds with their families. They’re ideal for people who appreciate a dignified, low-maintenance companion that doesn’t demand constant attention but wants to be near you at all times.
This requires careful consideration. Salukis have an exceptionally strong prey drive — they were bred to chase and kill small, fast-moving animals. Some Salukis can coexist peacefully with cats they’re raised with from puppyhood, but others will always view a running cat as prey. This is not a trait you can reliably train out; it’s hardwired. If you have cats, discuss this honestly with your breeder and proceed with extreme caution.
No. Salukis are one of the least aggressive breeds. They’re gentle, sensitive, and non-confrontational. They’re far more likely to flee from a threatening situation than to fight. Their reserve with strangers is about caution and independence, not aggression.
No. Salukis are one of the quietest dog breeds. They’ll alert you to something unusual, but excessive barking is rare. They communicate more through body language than vocalisation.
The Saluki is often called the Persian Greyhound, and the two breeds share obvious similarities as sighthounds built for speed. Key differences: Salukis are slightly smaller and lighter, have more endurance and stamina (they were bred for desert hunting over long distances, not short track sprints), have a more independent temperament, and come in feathered and smooth coat varieties. Greyhounds are generally more laid-back, more biddable, and more commonly available as rescue dogs from the racing industry. Both are gentle, quiet, and love their creature comforts.
Whippets are significantly smaller (44–51 cm, 9–18 kg vs the Saluki’s 56–71 cm, 16–30 kg). Whippets are more adaptable to apartment living, generally easier to train, and more demonstratively affectionate. Salukis are more independent, more aloof, and have greater endurance. Both are quiet, gentle sighthounds that love running and lounging in equal measure.
Health & Genetic Conditions
The Saluki is generally a healthy, robust breed — one of the healthiest sighthounds. Their health profile is significantly better than many popular breeds, but there are several conditions prospective owners should be aware of.
Prevalence: Heart disease is the single most documented health concern in the Saluki breed. A Saluki Health Research survey found cardiomyopathy had the highest number of responses of any condition — 49% of respondents identified it as known to occur in their dogs, with heart murmurs, congenital heart defects, congestive heart failure, and arrhythmias all recording significant rates. [Saluki Health Research Survey] Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is the most common form, where the heart muscle gradually weakens and enlarges until it can no longer pump blood effectively. [petMD – Saluki] The Finnish Saluki Club recommends cardiac examinations for all dogs used for breeding. [DogWellNet – Saluki]
Symptoms: Mild to moderate DCM often produces no obvious signs at first — the condition may be picked up as a heart murmur during a routine vet check before the owner notices anything at home. [petMD – Saluki] As it progresses, rapid or laboured breathing, faster fatigue during exercise, weakness, weight loss, and in severe cases sudden collapse or death can occur. [BetterPet – Saluki] Any Saluki tiring faster than usual or showing breathing changes warrants an urgent cardiac check.
Treatment Cost (AUD): Specialist echocardiogram to confirm DCM costs $400–$900. [petinsurance.com.au] Ongoing cardiac medication runs $500–$2,000/year and is typically required for the remainder of the dog’s life once diagnosed. Annual cardiac screening from 3–4 years of age is advisable for this breed given the high prevalence. [petinsurance.com.au]
Prevention: Annual cardiac auscultation by your vet from middle age onward is the most practical screening tool. [DogWellNet – Saluki] Ask your breeder whether cardiac disease has appeared in the family lines of both parents, and prioritise breeders who conduct cardiac evaluations before breeding.
Prevalence: Cancer is the leading cause of death in Salukis, with hemangiosarcoma, lymphoma, and osteosarcoma all documented at higher rates than in many other breeds. [Pets4Homes – Saluki] The Saluki Health Research survey placed cancer second only to cardiac disease in the list of conditions most commonly known to occur in the breed. [Saluki Health Research Survey] Hemangiosarcoma — a fast-moving cancer of the blood vessel walls often originating in the spleen, liver, or heart — is particularly associated with the breed and is frequently diagnosed at an advanced stage due to its subtle early signs. [petMD – Saluki]
Symptoms: Hemangiosarcoma often produces no warning signs until the tumour ruptures, causing sudden internal bleeding — weakness, pale gums, and sudden collapse are common presentations. [Dutch – Saluki] Lymphoma typically shows as firm, swollen lymph nodes felt under the jaw, behind the knees, or in the groin, often accompanied by weight loss and lethargy. Osteosarcoma presents as progressive lameness and a painful, firm swelling on a limb bone. [petMD – Saluki]
Treatment Cost (AUD): Hemangiosarcoma surgery (splenectomy) costs $3,000–$7,000; chemotherapy adds significantly to this. [petinsurance.com.au] Lymphoma chemotherapy runs $5,000–$12,000 for a full protocol. Pet insurance taken out before any diagnosis is strongly advisable for this breed. [petinsurance.com.au]
Prevention: No guaranteed prevention exists. Spaying females before their first heat cycle significantly reduces the risk of mammary cancer specifically. [petMD – Saluki] Regular vet checks every 6–12 months from middle age allow subtle signs to be caught earlier, when treatment options are most effective. Investigate any new lumps, unexplained weight loss, or sudden lameness promptly rather than waiting to see if they resolve. [Pets4Homes – Saluki]
Prevalence: Like all sighthounds, Salukis have very low body fat and an unusually lean muscle mass, which means standard anesthetic doses calculated by weight can produce far deeper sedation than intended — and take significantly longer to metabolise. [BetterPet – Saluki] This is not a disease but a physiological characteristic that applies to every Saluki regardless of age or health status — it must be flagged to your vet before any surgical or dental procedure. [BetterPet – Saluki]
Symptoms: Prolonged recovery time after anaesthetic, slower return to normal body temperature, and difficulty waking from sedation are the main concerns. In serious cases, overdose with standard protocols can cause respiratory depression or cardiac arrest. [VCA Hospitals]
Treatment Cost (AUD): No specific treatment cost — this is about ensuring your vet uses appropriate sighthound-adjusted protocols from the start. [petinsurance.com.au] Always notify any vet, emergency clinic, or boarding facility that your dog is a sighthound, and confirm they have experience with the breed before any procedure.
Prevention: Before any anaesthetic, confirm your vet is aware your dog is a sighthound and ask specifically what protocol they use for lean breeds. [BetterPet – Saluki] Keep a note of your dog’s breed and the anaesthetic sensitivity issue in their vet records and on any emergency contact card — this is especially important in after-hours emergencies where your regular vet may not be involved.
Prevalence: Hypothyroidism — most commonly caused by autoimmune thyroiditis — is identified as the second most prevalent endocrine condition in the breed by the Saluki Health Research survey, with a significant proportion of breed respondents reporting it as known to occur. [Saluki Health Research Survey] It is worth noting that Salukis, like other sighthounds, naturally run low in the thyroid hormone T4 compared to other breeds — meaning standard reference ranges can lead to misdiagnosis. [Saluki Health Research Survey] A specialist familiar with sighthound-specific thyroid ranges should interpret results. [DogWellNet – Saluki]
Symptoms: Weight gain in what is normally a very lean breed is one of the more obvious signs. [Dutch – Saluki] Lethargy, a dull or thinning coat, darkening of the skin, cold intolerance, and slowed heart rate can all develop as the condition progresses. Because Salukis are naturally lean and energetic, even subtle changes in their weight or activity level are worth investigating. [petMD – Saluki]
Treatment Cost (AUD): Thyroid testing costs $80–$200 per blood panel. [petinsurance.com.au] Treatment with daily oral thyroxine supplementation is inexpensive — typically $20–$60/month — and most dogs respond very well, returning to normal energy and coat quality within a few months. [VCA Hospitals]
Prevention: OFA thyroid evaluation of breeding stock is recommended to reduce the prevalence of autoimmune thyroiditis in the breed. [OFA – thyroid] Annual wellness blood panels from middle age onward allow early detection before clinical signs become obvious. Use a lab familiar with sighthound reference ranges when interpreting results. [Saluki Health Research Survey]
Prevalence: NCL is a serious inherited neurological condition specific to the Saluki — a recessive disorder where abnormal storage material accumulates in the brain and eyes, causing progressive and irreversible deterioration. [petMD – Saluki] Symptoms typically appear early in life, between 1–2 years of age. Both parents must carry the mutated gene for a puppy to be affected, and carriers show no symptoms themselves. [petMD – Saluki] There is no treatment and the condition is fatal. [Pets4Homes – Saluki]
Symptoms: Progressive blindness, disorientation, loss of coordination, behavioural changes, and seizures in a young adult Saluki are the hallmark signs. [petMD – Saluki] The onset in a dog under 2 years of age is particularly significant — NCL should be considered whenever a young Saluki shows unexplained neurological deterioration. [Pets4Homes – Saluki]
Treatment Cost (AUD): There is no cure or treatment. [petMD – Saluki] DNA testing of both parents before breeding costs approximately $100–$200 per dog and entirely prevents affected puppies from being produced when used correctly. [petinsurance.com.au]
Prevention: Ask your breeder for NCL DNA test certificates for both parents confirming they are clear or that only a carrier-to-clear pairing has been used. [petMD – Saluki] Do not purchase a puppy from a breeder who cannot provide this documentation for both parents.
Prevalence: The Saluki’s deep, narrow chest puts it firmly in the at-risk category for GDV — the life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists, cutting off blood supply to surrounding organs. [petMD – Saluki] As an active, fast-running breed, the risk is compounded by exercise immediately after eating — a combination that sighthound owners must actively manage. [BetterPet – Saluki] Without emergency surgery, GDV is fatal within hours. [VCA Hospitals]
Symptoms: A rapidly swelling or hard abdomen, repeated unsuccessful retching, excessive drooling, restlessness, and laboured breathing are the key warning signs. [VCA Hospitals] Any Saluki showing these signs after eating or running should be treated as an emergency — go straight to a vet without waiting to see if symptoms pass.
Treatment Cost (AUD): Emergency surgical correction costs $3,500–$9,000+ AUD. [petinsurance.com.au] A prophylactic gastropexy — where the stomach is surgically tacked to prevent twisting — can be performed at desexing and is worth discussing with your vet for this breed. [petMD – Saluki]
Prevention: Feed two smaller meals daily rather than one large feed, and enforce a rest period of at least 60 minutes before and after meals — particularly before any running or coursing activity. [BetterPet – Saluki] Ask your vet about a prophylactic gastropexy at desexing for this deep-chested breed. [petMD – Saluki]
Lifespan & Longevity
The Saluki has an impressively wide lifespan range of 10 to 17 years, with healthy individuals commonly reaching 14–15 years. This is one of the breed’s great advantages — for a medium-to-large dog, their longevity is exceptional. Some studies have recorded individual Salukis living beyond 17 years.
The variation in lifespan is largely influenced by cardiac health and cancer incidence. Salukis from heart-tested parents in health-focused breeding programs tend to live longer. Weight management, regular exercise, dental care, and cardiac screening all contribute to a longer, healthier life.
Lifespan Stages Table
| Life Stage | Key Focus Areas |
|---|---|
| Puppy (0–12 months) | Early socialisation (critical for this reserved breed); gentle training; controlled exercise on soft surfaces; vaccination schedule; multiple small meals |
| Adolescent (1–2 years) | Continue socialisation; increase exercise gradually; begin safe off-lead running in secure areas; reinforce recall (essential but challenging); dental care routine |
| Adult (2–10 years) | Regular cardiac screening and thyroid checks; dental care; daily exercise including sprinting; maintain lean body condition; watch for running injuries |
| Senior (10+ years) | Twice-yearly vet visits; cardiac monitoring; watch for lumps, vision changes, weight gain; soft orthopaedic bedding (sighthounds develop calluses on bony joints); adjust exercise to ability |
Grooming & Care
The Saluki is one of the lowest-maintenance breeds in terms of grooming, and they’re famously clean. Their coat produces virtually no doggy odour — many owners report that their Saluki rarely smells, even when wet. Shedding is minimal across both coat varieties.
Are Salukis Hypoallergenic?
No dog is truly hypoallergenic, but the Saluki is among the better choices for allergy sufferers. They shed very little, produce minimal dander compared to heavy-shedding breeds, and have no undercoat. The smooth variety in particular is about as close to non-shedding as you’ll find in a medium-to-large dog.
Grooming Schedule Table
| Grooming Task | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Coat Brushing (feathered) | 2–3 times weekly | Focus on ear fringes, tail, and leg feathering; pin brush for tangles |
| Coat Brushing (smooth) | Weekly | Quick wipe-down or soft brush; minimal effort |
| Bathing | Only when dirty | Salukis are naturally clean; odour-free coat rarely needs washing |
| Toe Hair Trimming | Every 2–4 weeks | Keep hair between toes neat to prevent debris accumulation and irritation |
| Nail Trimming | Every 2–3 weeks | Essential; long nails affect gait and can cause injuries at speed |
| Teeth Brushing | Daily (ideal) | Salukis are prone to early dental disease; start from puppyhood |
| Ear Cleaning | Weekly | Long feathered ears can trap debris; check for redness and odour |
Exercise Needs
This is the non-negotiable that separates Saluki owners from people who simply admire Salukis from a distance. These dogs must run. Not jog, not walk briskly — sprint, at full speed, in a secure, fully fenced area, regularly. Without this outlet, a Saluki will be unhappy, potentially destructive, and denied the fundamental purpose its body was built for over seven millennia.
An hour of daily exercise is the minimum, ideally including at least one opportunity to run flat-out in a safe, enclosed space. Many Australian Saluki owners participate in lure coursing — an organised sport where dogs chase a mechanical lure around a course, simulating the hunt. This is an excellent outlet for the breed’s drive and is run by sighthound clubs in most Australian states.
The Off-Lead Problem
Here is the uncomfortable truth: Salukis cannot be trusted off-lead in unfenced areas. Their prey drive is so strong that if they see something moving — a rabbit, a cat, a bird, a plastic bag — they will chase it at 60+ km/h, deaf to your calls, blind to traffic, and genuinely unable to stop themselves. This is not a training failure; it’s biology. A Saluki in pursuit is not thinking; it’s hunting. Many Salukis have been killed by cars after chasing prey across roads.
You need a securely fenced yard (at least 1.8 metres high — Salukis are exceptional jumpers) and access to a secure, enclosed off-lead area for running. If you don’t have this, a Saluki is not the right breed for you.
Saluki Speed: How Fast Are They?
The 1996 Guinness Book of Records listed the Saluki as the fastest dog breed, clocking 68.8 km/h (42.8 mph). While Greyhounds are generally accepted as faster over short sprint distances (up to 800 metres), Salukis have superior endurance and are faster over longer distances. Their heavily padded feet absorb impact remarkably well, giving them stamina that track-bred Greyhounds lack. In open desert hunting, this endurance advantage was the difference between eating and going hungry.
Training Guide
Training a Saluki is an exercise in patience, creativity, and acceptance. This is not a breed that will eagerly perform tricks for treats or hang on your every word during obedience class. They’re intelligent enough to learn anything — they’re just not always motivated to comply. Think of it less as training a dog and more as negotiating with a very polite, very fast diplomat.
Positive reinforcement is the only effective approach. Salukis are extremely sensitive — harsh corrections, raised voices, or punishment will shut them down completely. They can become timid, anxious, or simply refuse to engage. Gentle, patient, consistent training with high-value rewards (many Salukis are food-motivated, despite their reputation as picky eaters) yields the best results.
Training Difficulty
Training difficulty: 6 out of 10 for experienced sighthound owners; 8 out of 10 for first-timers. The main challenges are recall (which may never be reliable off-lead in unfenced areas), independent decision-making, and the prey drive that overrides all training in pursuit situations.
Training Timeline Table
| Age | Training Focus |
|---|---|
| 8–16 weeks | Socialisation (critical — expose to many people, environments, sounds, animals); gentle handling; name recognition; crate training; begin house training; positive associations with recall cue |
| 4–6 months | Basic commands (sit, wait, come); leash manners (gentle approach — never force); continued socialisation; begin safe, enclosed recall practice with high-value rewards |
| 6–12 months | Adolescent independence increases; maintain recall practice; impulse control games; introduce lure coursing if interested; manage prey drive expectations realistically |
| 1+ years | Ongoing training maintenance; lure coursing or free running in secure areas; mental enrichment through puzzle toys and scent games; accept that recall in open spaces may never be 100% |
Cost of Ownership in Australia
The Saluki is a relatively affordable breed to maintain once purchased. They eat modestly for their size, grooming costs are minimal, and they’re generally healthy. The main ongoing expenses are fencing (essential), veterinary care (cardiac screening is recommended), and potentially lure coursing entry fees.
Purchase Price
Saluki puppies from registered ANKC breeders in Australia cost $4,000 to $6,000+ AUD. The breed is not common, and quality breeders produce litters infrequently — most breed only when they want to add to their own kennel. Waitlists are standard. Puppies should come ANKC-registered, vaccinated, microchipped, wormed, vet-checked, and ideally from heart-tested and thyroid-tested parents.
Key ANKC-registered Saluki breeders in Australia include Catonam (NSW — 48+ years), Pazada (NSW — multiple Supreme Champions), Al Shira (NSW — lure coursing focus, Puppy Culture protocol), Elarabie (VIC — 50+ years, multiple Specialty BIS winners), Grantulla (VIC — rural working Salukis), Ulmarra, Barad (TAS), and several others across states. All reputable breeders health-test their stock.
Rescue & Adoption
Saluki rescue is limited in Australia but does exist. Contact state sighthound clubs or the Saluki breed clubs for rehoming enquiries. Rescued Salukis may come from owners who underestimated the breed’s exercise needs or prey drive.
Ongoing Annual Costs
| Expense | Annual Estimate (AUD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Premium Dog Food | $800–$1,400 | Moderate eater; high-quality food; some are picky eaters |
| Veterinary Care (routine) | $350–$700 | Annual check, vaccines, parasite prevention; cardiac/thyroid screening |
| Pet Insurance | $500–$1,200 | Recommended; covers cardiac conditions, cancer, injuries |
| Grooming | $50–$150 | Minimal; primarily home grooming; minimal professional needs |
| Fencing (initial) | $2,000–$8,000+ | Minimum 1.8m high secure fencing; essential one-time cost |
| Lure Coursing / Activities | $100–$400 | Optional but recommended; entry fees and club memberships |
| Council Registration | $30–$200 | Varies by council |
| Beds, Coats, Equipment | $200–$500 | Soft beds essential (callus prevention); winter coats for thin-coated sighthounds |
| TOTAL (first year) | $7,000–$18,000+ | Including purchase price and fencing |
| TOTAL (ongoing per year) | $2,000–$4,500 | Excluding major vet bills |
Is the Saluki Right for You?
You appreciate a quiet, elegant, independent companion that bonds deeply but doesn’t demand constant attention. You have a securely fenced yard (minimum 1.8m high) and access to safe, enclosed areas for off-lead sprinting. You’re patient with training and comfortable with a dog that thinks for itself. You’re experienced with dogs or willing to learn about sighthound-specific needs. You don’t have cats (or are willing to manage this risk carefully). You value a low-shedding, odour-free, low-grooming-needs breed. You’re prepared to commit to daily exercise including sprint opportunities.
You want a dog that comes when called every time, off-lead, in any situation — that is not a Saluki. You live in an apartment or have no access to secure fenced running space. You have small children who want a rough-and-tumble playmate. You have cats or small animals that you can’t separate from the dog. You want a demonstratively affectionate, people-pleasing breed — the Saluki’s love is real but subtle. You’re away from home for long hours — Salukis can develop separation anxiety. You’re not prepared to deal with the reality of an unfenced Saluki chasing prey at 60+ km/h into traffic.
No. There is no miniature or “mini” Saluki. The breed comes in one size range (though there is considerable natural variation between types and sexes). The Whippet or Italian Greyhound are sometimes suggested as smaller sighthound alternatives, but they are completely separate breeds with different histories and temperaments.
Saluki crosses with Greyhounds, German Shepherds, Border Collies, Whippets, and Labradors all appear in Australian search data. Be aware that crossing a Saluki with another breed does not eliminate the prey drive or the need for secure fencing — these traits are deeply ingrained. Crosses are not ANKC-recognised and cannot be registered or shown.
The Saluki is a living piece of ancient history — a breed that has been unchanged for thousands of years because it was already perfect for its purpose. They are breathtakingly beautiful, fiercely fast, quietly devoted, and utterly unlike any other dog you’ve lived with.
Here’s what it comes down to:
- The Saluki is one of the oldest, fastest, and most elegant dog breeds in the world. They weigh 16–30 kg, live 10–17 years (often 14+), shed minimally, have virtually no doggy odour, and require very little grooming. They are gentle, quiet, and deeply loyal — but independent and reserved, not demonstratively affectionate.
- They absolutely must have daily opportunities to sprint in a securely fenced area. They cannot be trusted off-lead in unfenced spaces due to an irresistible prey drive. Secure fencing (1.8m+ high) is non-negotiable. Sighthound-specific anaesthesia awareness is essential.
- In Australia, ANKC-registered puppies cost $4,000–$6,000+. Annual ongoing costs are modest ($2,000–$4,500). Breeders are few and breed infrequently — expect a waitlist. For the right owner, a Saluki is a once-in-a-lifetime companion that will make every other breed feel slightly ordinary by comparison.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Saluki cost in Australia?
Saluki puppies from registered ANKC breeders in Australia cost $4,000 to $6,000+ AUD. The breed is not common, and quality breeders produce litters infrequently — most breed only when they want to add to their own kennel. Waitlists are standard. Puppies should come ANKC-registered, vaccinated, microchipped, wormed, vet-checked, and ideally from heart-tested and thyroid-tested parents.
How fast is a Saluki?
The 1996 Guinness Book of Records listed the Saluki as the fastest dog breed, clocking 68.8 km/h (42.8 mph). While Greyhounds are generally accepted as faster over short sprint distances (up to 800 metres), Salukis have superior endurance and are faster over longer distances. Their heavily padded feet absorb impact remarkably well, giving them stamina that track-bred Greyhounds lack.
How long do Salukis live?
The Saluki has an impressively wide lifespan range of 10 to 17 years, with healthy individuals commonly reaching 14–15 years. This is one of the breed’s great advantages — for a medium-to-large dog, their longevity is exceptional. Some studies have recorded individual Salukis living beyond 17 years.
Do Salukis shed?
Minimal. The Saluki is one of the lowest-shedding breeds. They have no undercoat, and their fine, silky hair sheds very little. The smooth variety sheds even less than the feathered variety. They are an excellent choice for people who dislike heavy dog hair in their home.
Are Salukis hypoallergenic?
No dog is truly hypoallergenic, but the Saluki is among the better choices for allergy sufferers. They shed very little, produce minimal dander compared to heavy-shedding breeds, and have no undercoat. The smooth variety in particular is about as close to non-shedding as you’ll find in a medium-to-large dog.
What is a Persian Greyhound?
Persian Greyhound is another name for the Saluki. The breed originated in the Middle East (the Fertile Crescent region that includes modern Iran, Iraq, Syria, and Arabia) and was historically used by nomadic tribes to hunt gazelle, hare, and other fast game across the desert. The name reflects the breed’s ancient Persian heritage and its greyhound-like build and speed.
Are Salukis easy to train?
Training difficulty: 6 out of 10 for experienced sighthound owners; 8 out of 10 for first-timers. Salukis are intelligent but independent — they understand commands but may choose not to comply. Positive reinforcement with high-value rewards works best. Recall off-lead in unfenced areas is not reliable due to their strong prey drive.
Can Salukis live in apartments?
Only if you have guaranteed daily access to a large, securely fenced area where they can sprint at full speed. Salukis are calm and quiet indoors (perfect apartment behaviour) but their non-negotiable need for high-speed running means they must have a safe place to do so. Without this, apartment living is not suitable.
What were Salukis bred for?
Salukis were bred for desert hunting over thousands of years. They hunted gazelle, hare, fox, and jackal using their extraordinary speed (up to 69 km/h) and keen eyesight (they are sighthounds). They worked in partnership with falcons and were so valued by Bedouin tribes that they were never sold — only given as gifts of honour.
Where can I find Saluki breeders in Australia?
Key ANKC-registered Saluki breeders in Australia include Catonam (NSW), Pazada (NSW), Al Shira (NSW), Elarabie (VIC), Grantulla (VIC), Ulmarra, Barad (TAS), and several others across states. All reputable breeders health-test their stock. Contact Dogs Australia or your state canine council for a list of current registered breeders.
1. Dogs Queensland — Saluki Breed Information — https://dogsqueensland.org.au/Breeds/browse-all-breeds/117/Saluki/
2. Dogzonline.com.au — Saluki Breeders in Australia — https://www.dogzonline.com.au/breeds/breeders/saluki.asp
3. PetMD — Saluki Dog Breed Health and Care — https://www.petmd.com/dog/breeds/saluki
4. Perfect Pets Australia — Saluki Breeders & Info — https://perfectpets.com.au/pets/dogs/dog-breeds/dog-breeders/saluki
5. PetsForHomes Australia — Saluki Breed Information — https://petsforhomes.com.au/dogs-puppies/saluki
6. Burke’s Backyard — Saluki Breed Profile — https://www.burkesbackyard.com.au/fact-sheets/pets/pet-road-tests/dogs-breeds/saluki/
7. American Kennel Club — Saluki Breed Information — https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/saluki/
8. Hill’s Pet — Saluki Dog Breed — https://www.hillspet.com/dog-care/dog-breeds/saluki