The Saluki Is One of the Oldest Dog Breeds Dating Back Thousands of Years

Archaeological evidence suggests that Salukis have existed for over 7000 years, with mummified remains found in ancient Egyptian tombs. These dogs were so highly valued that they were often mummified alongside pharaohs and nobility. The breed takes its name from the ancient city of Saluk in Yemen, though they were also known as the Royal Dog of Egypt. Salukis were primarily used for hunting gazelle and other swift game across the deserts of the Middle East. Their incredible speed and endurance made them prized possessions, and they were often the only dogs allowed to sleep inside tents with their Bedouin owners. Today, they remain virtually unchanged from their ancient ancestors.