Don’t be fooled by the Saluki’s delicate appearance, this breed embodies sight-hound focus and gameness. Their endurance and determination are perfectly suited for pursuing game a long distance over challenging terrain. This royal dog of Egypt was originally employed by the Arabs to hunt the superlatively swift gazelle. They were so treasured by their keepers that they were even mummified in Pharoah fashion! The Saluki first made the voyage to England in 1840 and its speed made it perfect for quarrying hare. Of course your Saluki will love sight-hound oriented activities such as lure-coursing but can also do well in obedience, if trained with patience and consistency. They have a strong prey drive so need to be under control at all times to prevent impetuous, potentially dangerous chases. They are clean, low maintenance breed but require weekly brushing to keep their silky fur shiny and tangle free.
Each AKC approved purebred breed has its own national club. The mission of these “parent breed clubs” is to improve and preserve a particular breed by advancing knowledge about its history, its health and care requirements and by assuring that the breed’s form and function remain true to its historical physical type and character: A Dalmatian, for instance, should be athletic and have a natural affinity for working with horses. A Fox Terrier should have the right body size and shape, and a drive to go after vermin.
Pet owners, breeders, trainers, veterinarians, and others with a special love for a breed, join the parent breed club to meet like-minded enthusiasts and to support the club’s mission.
The national parent breed club is the first place for the public to go to learn about a breed or find a knowledgeable, experienced breeder.
Discover Animals is a web-based educational resource offered by the NAIA
