Ratings

Breed Introduction

    The Saluki is a noble dog of Egypt, possibly one of the earliest known domesticated dogs. According to some historical records, it appeared in the tombs of ancient Egypt around 2100 BC and statues of Salukis began to be created between 7000 and 6000 BC. In some ancient cultures, animals depicted in art closely resemble Salukis, having a Lurcher-like body and long ears.

    Salukis are found in several Arabian countries such as Egypt and Pakistan. They were brought to England in 1840, with one dog belonging to Mr. Hamilton and another female dog belonging to a duke, along with a park dog, giving the first impression of this breed. Due to their incredible speed, they have been used in Arab countries to capture prey like gazelles, attacking under the guidance of falcons. They are also believed to catch foxes and rabbits, and in England, they are tasked with locating rabbits in the shortest time possible.

    The historical origin of the Saluki dates back to Iran in the Middle East, around 3000 BC. It is said that ancient Pharaohs would release eagles and hunt with the Saluki. Mummies of Salukis have also been discovered in ancient Egyptian tombs. Medieval Islamic hunters referred to this breed as ‘a gift from the god of the Arabs.’ Due to this religious belief, any game captured by Salukis, even forbidden foods, were allowed to be eaten.

    The Saluki is also known as the Hunting Gazelle Dog or Persian Lurcher. Judging by appearance, this breed is likely related to the ancient Afghan Hound. Salukis have been known as noble dogs in ancient Egypt and have been documented in human civilization for a long time, with sculptures found in ancient Egyptian tombs from 2100 BC. Many paintings from ancient Europe depict dogs resembling Salukis, characterized by their streamlined bodies and long, droopy ears.

    Their strength allows them to easily kill a gazelle, which is why they are sometimes called the Gazelle Hound. With a history that can be traced back 5000 years, hunting dogs strikingly similar to them are depicted on the walls of ancient Egyptian tombs. The name derives from the now desert-submerged city of Saluq, which is located in present-day Yemen.