The Saluki is an ancient hunting dog. For thousands of years they would accompany the Bedouins, their hunting falcons, and their Arabian horses on hunts in the desert. The Bedouins would release the falcons to look for game from above, and the Salukis would follow the falcon. When the game, usually a gazelle, was spotted, the bird would circle until the Salukis caught sight of it and would run it down with the Bedouins following on horseback.
Salukis became established in the US in the mid-1920s and were recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1927. The Saluki Club of America (SCOA) was formed the same year and is the AKC parent club for the breed. SCOA promotes the multi-talented Saluki through public and judge education, as well as hosting regional conformation specialties and an annual national specialty. Lure coursing, rally, obedience, and agility trials are also held at the National.
Saluki males should stand between 23 and 28 inches tall when measured at the shoulder, while females may be considerably smaller. On average, they weigh between 40-60 lbs although some large males may weigh more and a petite female less. Their life expectancy is 10-14 years.
The SCOA National specialty is the largest gathering of Salukis in the country. Click below to learn more about this event, including dates and location.
