Saluki
The Saluki is described by the AKC as dignified, gentle, independent-minded, a member of the Hound Group, originally from Middle East.
Last updated: October 2026 · 5 sources · see sources
| Height | 23-28 inches (male), considerably smaller (female) [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 40-65 pounds [1] |
| Life expectancy | 10–17+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Dignified / Gentle / Independent-Minded [1] |
| AKC group | Hound Group [1] |
| Origin | Middle East [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 135 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
Salukis need regular exercise to keep fit, and daily walks (always on a leash) will help both hound and owner stay in shape, physically and mentally. Salukis love to run and should have a well-fenced yard to keep them safely away from traffic. Like other dogs, Salukis can be escape artists or destructive chewers when bored or unhappy at home, so good fencing and safe toys and chew-bones are a must. [1]
Grooming
Salukis have two types of coats'¿feathered and smooth'¿and both are easily groomed with weekly brushing, although if they have long ear or tail feathering, that may take a bit more attention. Many Saluki owners use a snood to keep ear feathering out of the food bowl (smooth Salukis do not have that problem). Salukis are very clean dogs and known for not having a 'doggy' odor. [1]
Health issues to budget for
As a breed, Salukis are free from serious genetic diseases. Some may develop heart conditions such as valve disease or arrhythmia, and enlarged hearts are not unknown. Certain cancers such as hemangiosarcoma or osteosarcoma, lymphoma, or mammary cancers (the latter is prevented by early spaying) can occur, and some autoimmune and blood conditions have been reported. Vigorous running and playing after eating can cause bloat, or gastric torsion (which is a life-threatening emergency and needs immediate intervention). [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Cardiac Exam, Thyroid Evaluation. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a medium dog (median $482) | $239 – $1,107 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, medium dog | $589 – $1,571 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, medium dog | $264 – $2,106 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Saluki in 1929. [1]
- It ranked No. 135 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 132 in 2015. [2]
- The AKC lists Middle East as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 2 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Cardiac Exam, Thyroid Evaluation. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ Active owners who can give daily exercise (AKC energy 4/5)
- ✅ People who want less dog hair at home (AKC shedding 2/5)
Common questions
How long do Salukis live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 10-17 years.
How big does a Saluki get?
AKC breed information lists height 23-28 inches (male), considerably smaller (female) and weight 40-65 pounds.
How much are vet bills for a Saluki?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For medium dogs like the Saluki, a typical vet bill runs $239 – $1,107 (median $482). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.