[MJayne]

Hi, I am new to the forum and like the rest of you a massive dog lover. I have fallen madly in love with a Saluki at the pet shelter. He is one year old. I spent about an hour last night reading up on the breed but now I would like to hear from someone who actually has experience with one. If there is anyone out there who can help me make my decision, please write back.

I guess my main worry is because they can run so fast, do they need to run that fast everyday in order to be healthy and happy or is walking and jogging with them daily enough?

Thanks!

[DoggieVogue]

I have no experience with this breed, but I just wanted to say hi and welcome to the forum!

[Yogi]

Hopefully this will help you.
Saluki Puppy - Saluki Dog Breed Information

[CorkyMax]

[QUOTE=MJayne;79773]Hi, I am new to the forum and like the rest of you a massive dog lover. I have fallen madly in love with a Saluki at the pet shelter. He is one year old. I spent about an hour last night reading up on the breed but now I would like to hear from someone who actually has experience with one. If there is anyone out there who can help me make my decision, please write back. Sorry, I don't have any experience either and I know you have already studied but I have a breeds book and a couple things I wanted to make sure you knew about! There are a couple BE AWARE comments from this book. 1.--These dogs are able to jump very high fences. 2.--Cancer is a growing problem for this breed.

I guess my main worry is because they can run so fast, do they need to run that fast everyday in order to be healthy and happy or is walking and jogging with them daily enough? (Corky/Max-->)Like I said I have no experience with this breed but here is what it says in my book: Salukis should have regular opportunities to run free on open ground in addition to long daily walks---they make excellent jogging companions. They are built for speed and capable of bursts of 40 mph (65 km/h) or more, but they also have exceptional endurance. There are no special feeding requirements but they tend to be light eaters. They also drink less than other dogs, as you might expect, given their region of origin. (Arabia)(Corky/Max)

Will also quote a few other things in case you didn't read it before. Under the heading: HEALTH PROBLEMS: -- Prone to genetic eye diseases, such as cataracts and PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy). (and the cancer I already mentioned.) Dogs with pale or mottled noses should have sunscreen applied regularly to such sensitive areas during the summer months.
Not a good watchdog. Brush twice weekly.
TEMPERAMENT: Gentle, affectionate and intensely loyal. Salukis quickly becom part of the family, although they may remain aloof with strangers. They are not at all aggressive but can be rather sensitive and, while easy to train, they become nervous and timid if the trainer's manner is overbearing or harsh.
GROOMING: Easy to groom and there is little shedding. Comb and brush with a firm bristle brush, and shampoo ONLY when necessary. Be careful not to overbrush as this may break the coat. Trim the hair between the toes or it will matt and make the feet sore.
:mrgreen:

[midnight_focus]

Hello and welcome to the forum

[rikitiki]

Hi: Although it has been many years since our beautiful Saluki " Ebony" passed, my wife and I would not hesitate to give a loving home to another Saluki.
First you must be ready to share your life, once your Saluki becomes used to you he/she will expect to be the object of your affection and adoration. But, do not expect Lab type displays of affection, your Saluki may vocalize, wag his/her tail, even jump up to greet you, but it will be usually politely reserved and somewhat dignified. Second, give up part of your bed It's his/her bred in right to be as close to the master as possible. They are quiet sleepers, but are known to push wives out of bed at times. Third, you must obtain a suitable leash that is easy to keep hold of in a manner that cannot be dropped, also collars must fit a little snugger than other breeds, like Collies, Salukis are easily able to slip out of a loose collar, with possibly catastrophic results. Although delicate looking they are amazingly strong. Fourth, training, well yes, he/she will train you in Saluki ways.
By hard experience I can attest that nothing is quite as heart stopping as seeing your saluki clear impossibly high fences as she/he travels through your neighbors gardens at thirty plus miles an hour, heading for a busy road. On the farm, our Saluki and our Collie used to play endlessly for hours at a time the Collie would tire, not Ebony. Chasing other animals, yes they will, instantly, although they do seem to be good with cats.
Lastly you must find some place large but fully fenced for Salukis to run.
Oh, once you have lived with a Saluki, all other dog breeds seem somewhat diminshed.

[DoggieVogue]

Hi and welcome! Although I don't own a Saluki, I think they are a beautiful breed!