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Health

YOUR VETERINARIAN is generally the best source of health information about individual dogs, but the Saluki Club of America would like to offer some supplemental material on both the general health of and breed specific concerns. The Saluki remains a relatively hardy breed. Like most dogs, Salukis can live a long and healthy life if given proper care, food, exercise, routine veterinary attention, and are free from serious genetic disorders.

Regular Veterinary Check-ups: Annual wellness checks are essential to any dog. However, puppy check-ups will happen more often for vaccines (and they help your puppy get used to the vet and the exam room). These regular examinations are important to not only build a baseline health profile, but to identify and address potential health issues early on. These visits will build you and your Saluki’s relationship with your veterinarian — who will guide you on vaccinations, preventive care, and any specific health concerns you may have.

Here are some common health considerations for Salukis —

  • Hypothyroidism: Salukis normally can function very well with lower thyroid hormone values than those of many breeds.
  • Dental Health: Good oral hygiene is crucial for all dogs, including Salukis. Tartar build-up, and inflamed gums can open the body’s immune system to bacterial infections that may affect their heart. Regular teeth brushing, tartar-removing chews, and veterinary dental cleanings will help keep your Saluki’s mouth healthy.
  • Quality Diet: A balanced and nutritious diet is essential to the health of dogs and people. Talk to your breeder and veterinarian about the best diet plan for your Saluki’s specific needs.
  • Cardiology: Some Salukis may be prone to heart-related issues, including dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Heart screenings are important, especially as your dog ages. Many breeders have echocardiograms done on their prospective parents to ensure there are no obstacles for the planned litter.
  • Cancer: Like all dogs, Salukis may be susceptible to certain types of cancer. Annual check-ups to detect any symptoms early are crucial for managing and treating cancer in any dog.
  • Sensitivity to Anesthesia: Because lean Salukis have less body fat to absorb barbiturate anesthetics, they may go under more deeply and take longer to recover. It’s essential to discuss this with your veterinarian when planning surgeries or procedures that involve general anesthesia.
  • Neutering: If you purchase a female Saluki and don’t intend to show or breed her, we suggest you have her spayed, which will eliminate her coming into “heat” about twice a year and unwanted litters. If you buy a male dog, and do not plan to show or breed him, pleased consider neutering him to prevent him siring unwanted puppies. Follow advice from both your breeder and your veterinarian about timing of the surgical procedure. Your veterinarian can advise about what type of sterilization is best. After spaying or neutering, feathered Salukis may grow a  fuzzy coat — similar to  an Afghan puppy. If you prefer to avoid this, consider  hormone preserving sterilization.

Although you can’t show neutered dogs at AKC dog shows, they are eligible for all other AKC sponsored activities. Additionally, neutered Salukis can compete in other organizations’ events, including obedience, agility, open field coursing, lure coursing, and tracking.

 

Finally, You may wish to consult with your breeder or veterinarian about these specific health issues :

Neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis

Saluki Encephalopathy (or SSADHD)

Depogen Post-Operative Bleeding