Saluki dogs can run extremely fast, reaching speeds of up to 75 kilometres per hour, and can maintain these speeds over extended distances of up to three miles. Full-grown Salukis weigh approximately 26 kilograms and are characterised as long-and narrow-bodied, high-browed, and flat-and high-chested. They have a rectangular-shaped mouth and ears that are long and wide. There are two types of Arabian Saluki hunting dog: ‘Al Hoss’ and ‘Aryash. Al Hoss dogs have light-coloured hair across their entire bodies, while Aryash dogs are characterised by their thick coats.
Hunting and Racing
The speed and stamina of Saluki dogs makes them excellent hunting dogs and exciting animals for racing.
Hunting dogs are often used as part of falconry hunting. Saluki dogs that will join these hunting parties are raised from pups in contact with falcons, in order to train them to work together during a hunt.
Salukis are important during these hunts because they are able to retrieve prey that has been wounded by the falcon but has hidden amidst bushes, tall grasses or other thickets. Similarly, falcons and Salukis work together to catch prey that may be hiding. The bird locates the prey from the air, showing the Saluki where to go to catch it.
Practiced in the Arabian Peninsula for hundreds of years, Saluki dog racing continues today, with the dog’s tremendous speed creating exciting entertainment. Races are held during heritage festivals and other sport and heritage club events.
Arabian Saluki Centre
Established in 2001 in Abu Dhabi, the Arabian Saluki Centre provides resources to Saluki owners, including medical care, training, breeding, animal registration and boarding.
The centre organises the annual Arabian Saluki Beauty Competition, a dog show that differs from Western competitions by its focus not on appearance, but on a dog’s character, intelligence, and skills in areas such as hunting and guarding.
