CONSIDERING THE COMMITMENT

Making the short-list

Let's assume that you've already chosen or short-listed a Saluki as your kind of dog. What made you choose the breed? Perhaps you saw a picture of one, or perhaps you saw one in the flesh. It's elegance, grace and drop-dead gorgeous looks might have helped you make up your mind. Well, I suppose we all get caught up that way initially, but there's more to a Saluki than just good looks.

The truth is, there are just as many good reasons to take a Saluki into your home as there are bad reasons. The articles in this section will set out to expose the down side as well as the good times. If you can survive the warnings herein and you can meet the requirements for keeping your Saluki safe and healthy, you are probably a very suitable candidate for a Saluki in your home.

And if you already have a Saluki or two, or had one in the past, you will know that there really is no other canine to match the Saluki's charming appeal.

No other breed like it

Independent, wilful, affectionate, undemonstrative, intelligent, independent, quiet, clean, elegant, graceful, gentle, agile, independent, amusing, exotic, beautiful, spirited, athletic, intuitive, communicative, attractive, vocal, independent, loyal, protective, fast, disobedient, trainable, civilized, aloof, comfort-seeking, independent, compassionate, mischievous, easy, difficult, independent, long-lived, destructive, faithful, companionable, charming, fascinating, composed.... oh, and did I mention independent?

The package that is a Saluki was created many thousands of years ago to live and work in a harsh, hunting environment. For centuries, Saluki have been revered as something very special - a "Gift of Allah", and were set quite apart from the ordinary "kelb" that roamed the streets. In our Western homes, Saluki remain special - they need to live in special homes and be loved by special people.

So you want to be owned by a Saluki?

There are a number of issues to consider before you consider making the commitment:

* Will there be someone at home during the day to take care of your Saluki?
A young puppy on its own at home during the entire working week is totally unacceptable. The puppy needs care and company from a responsible person who can react intelligently in case of an emergency. If it is impossible for you to have someone to stay at home while you are at work, you should make some kind of day-care arrangement. If you have other dogs, your Saluki can stay alone with them for short periods during the day from about the age of 10 months.

* Is your property completely fenced?
A Saluki can jump with the greatest of ease. A high, strong, secure fence, or a 5 - 6 feet wall around the area to which your Saluki has access is essential and non-negotiable. Also, be pro-active about the front door and gate if it is a potential escape route.

* Will your Saluki be allowed inside the house?
The Saluki is a "people" dog, and enjoys your company and the comfort you can offer. If you're not prepared to allow your Saluki to share your life and home with you, please look for another breed - a Rottweiler, perhaps...

* Where will your Saluki sleep?
It is preferable to allow your Saluki to sleep inside the house, or similarly comfortable and warm place, such as a Wendy house. A Saluki is not an "outside dog" so an open kennel in the yard is not acceptable.

* Can you afford a Saluki?
Aside from the initial expense of buying the puppy, paying for its transport and additional costs, can you afford to feed premium-quality food, provide regular and emergency veterinary care, cover the cost of regular parasite treatment, pay for grooming and everything else to make your Saluki comfortable and happy?

* Are you planning to breed your Saluki?
Why do you want to breed your Saluki? Is it to give your children the experience of watching a litter being born? Is it because you feel it is kind to let a bitch have at least one litter? Is it because you want to make money out of the project? Is it because you want to cross your Saluki with another sighthound to create the ultimate coursing hound? None of these reasons are good enough. You may only consider breeding if you have developed an extensive knowledge of the breed, their history, possible health problems, and compatible bloodlines. Furthermore, breeding, if done properly (as every Saluki deserves) is never profitable, it is time-consuming, expensive, and extremely hard work.

* Are you prepared to embark on a life-long learning mission?
No-one can ever know everything there is to know about Saluki. Studying their history, conformation, movement, bloodlines, health issues, and temperament can easily occupy the rest of your life. If you know more about your Saluki companion, he is assured of a good quality of life.