Longevity
Life expectancy
With a life expectancy generally between 12 and 14 years, the Saluki can live a long time if its lifestyle, diet and veterinary follow-up are adapted to its profile as an active and naturally slim sighthound.
Constitution
Is this a robust breed?
The Saluki is a rather robust dog, with a low tendency to gain weight. Its natural slenderness should not be confused with a lack of body condition, but it requires careful monitoring of physical condition, especially in very athletic or aging individuals.
Things to watch for
What to look out for
Regular monitoring of the heart, thyroid and general condition is recommended in this breed. It is also important to inform the veterinarian of the Saluki's possible sensitivity to anesthesia before any procedure or medication prescription.
Sensitivity to anesthesia: Some Salukis react more strongly than other dogs to anesthetic protocols and certain medications, which requires well-adapted veterinary care.
Cardiomyopathies and other heart conditions: Heart disorders such as cardiomyopathy, cardiac hypertrophy, or certain valvular diseases may be encountered in some individuals.
Hypothyroidism: A thyroid dysfunction may appear and result in a decrease in fitness, changes in the coat, or variations in body condition.
Certain cancers: The breed may be affected by conditions such as osteosarcoma or hemangiosarcoma, especially with advancing age.
Climate
Tolerance to cold and heat
The Saluki tolerates moderate heat fairly well, but its fine coat and low fat coverage make it more sensitive to cold, humidity and prolonged bad weather. In winter, outings must be adapted and rest should take place in a well-sheltered environment.
Weight
Prone to weight gain
The Saluki is naturally lean and athletic. The goal is not to make it gain weight, but to maintain a slim silhouette with correct musculature. Intake must be adjusted to its actual activity, avoiding both underfeeding and excess treats.
Everyday care
Good habits to keep your pet healthy
- Inform the veterinarian of any possible sensitivity to anesthesia before a procedure.
- Have the heart and thyroid monitored in case of clinical doubt or in older subjects.
- Maintain a stable weight and good musculature without overfeeding.
- Protect the dog from damp cold due to its fine coat.
Vaccination
Saluki vaccinations: schedule
Which vaccines does a Saluki need? Like all dogs, Salukis should receive their core vaccines from 8 weeks of age: CHPPi (core vaccine) and Leptospirosis. Puppies receive their initial Saluki vaccinations in several shots spaced 4 weeks apart, followed by a first booster at 1 year. Depending on their lifestyle (hunting, hiking, boarding, travel, region), your veterinarian may add vaccines against Rabies, Kennel cough, Piroplasmosis, Lyme disease and Leishmaniasis.
| Vaccine | Primary vaccination | First booster | Then | For whom? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
CHPPi (core vaccine)Core Distemper, Rubarth hepatitis, parvovirosis and parainfluenza | 8 weeks · 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | All animals |
LeptospirosisCore Leptospirosis (bacterium transmitted by rodent urine and stagnant water) | 8 weeks · 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | All animals |
RabiesDepending on lifestyle Rabies | 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Mandatory for travel abroad, categorized dogs, most boarding kennels and shows |
Kennel coughDepending on lifestyle Bordetella bronchiseptica and parainfluenza | 8 weeks | 1 year | every year | Dogs attending boarding kennels, daycares, dog clubs and shows |
PiroplasmosisDepending on lifestyle Tick-borne babesiosis | 5 months · 6 months | 1 year | every year | Hunting dogs, dogs living in rural or wooded areas, dogs highly exposed to ticks |
Lyme diseaseDepending on lifestyle Tick-borne borreliosis | 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | Hiking dogs, hunting dogs, forest areas of the East and the Center |
LeishmaniasisDepending on lifestyle Leishmaniasis transmitted by sandflies | 6 months | 1 year and 6 months | every year | Dogs living or staying in the South of France, Corsica and the Mediterranean basin |
Adult Saluki booster shots are given annually for leptospirosis and rabies. For distemper, hepatitis, and parvovirus, a booster every three years is often enough after the first booster. Your veterinarian will tailor the schedule to your dog's actual risk.
Which boosters does your Saluki need?
Enter your companion's age to see which vaccines are due now and when the next boosters are needed.
Choosing well
Adopting a healthy Saluki
Regular clinical monitoring, supplemented depending on the dog’s profile by a cardiac evaluation and a check of thyroid function, provides a prudent basis for this breed. Particular attention is also useful in older subjects or in the event of an unexplained decline in condition.
This information is for guidance only and doesn't replace advice from a veterinarian. If you have any concerns about your pet's health, consult a professional.
