Saluki AppearanceThe Saluki is an elegant, endurance hound, the whole appearance giving an impression of grace, symmetry and functional athleticism. The expression should be dignified and gentle with deep, far-seeing eyes. Almost exclusively among breeds, the Saluki varies enormously in type with no type being more or less correct than the other. This variation is due to the wide geographical area of origin. The Standard has been drawn up to cover all types. A balanced Saluki will have a well-proportioned head, moderate stop, a long neck flowing into withers, a deep chest, a good topline with a nice arch over the loin, a moderate croup with low set on of tail, and rear angulation that shows no exaggerations.
There are two varieties. The feathered variety has light to heavy feathering on the ears, legs and tail, whereas the smooth variety has a finer, silkier coat with no feathering. The smooth variety is rarely seen in Victoria of late except at the Specialties. Salukis are medium sized dogs and come in many colours, the most common being cream, gold, fawn, red and black-and-tan. Parti-colouring, grizzles and tri-colours also appear quite often. The movement is a very important characteristic of the breed. There must be an effortless stride – light, with no exaggerated high stepping but a good reach forward and drive from the hindquarters, giving the impression that the hound is almost air borne. “The adult Saluki should look like a racehorse, firm fleshed, well muscled and with no superfluous fat, with gloss on its coat and the first two or three ribs just visible rippling under the skin." (Hope and David Waters, ‘The Saluki in History Art and Sport,’ 1969.) Height: Should average 58-71cm (23-28 in.) at shoulder, with bitches proportionately smaller. Weight: 18-28kg. |