Thursday, 11 November 2010

"He is a gentleman. He grew up with the saluki." --Arab Proverb


Arabian Bedouins had been breeding Salukis for hundreds of years. These noble desert hounds are known for their exceptional stamina, intelligence and loyalty. Their general physiology is one of grace, poise and symmetry-the Bedouins called them the wind drinkers.

Long-bodied, slim-natured, abdomen-atrophied, high limbed dogs, the Salukis fine quality lies in its hunting skills-serving as a speedy hunting dog that operated in packs. They often hunted in tandem with falcons which located the prey for the dog to hunt down.

The Saluki derives its name from the great ancient city in Yemen located in the Hajjour region of Hadramout. The site of Saluk city, in particular, was called Hasal Al-Zeinah and these had been ancient city monuments. Some books of old history talked about the fact that the city houses and parts were built of precious metals. It is within t his city that the famous Saluki breed was first sighted.

The assimilation of the breed into western society came about during the eightieth century where the first successful breeding conducted by an Ms Florence Amherst was established. A champion of pure breeds-she argued for the existence against an apathetic public. The Salukis popularity only took hold in the 20s when officers returning from the Middle East and Arab revolt bought their pet saluki with them.

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