Saluki Colors & Coat Guide

Saluki Colors Overview

The Saluki comes in several recognized coat colors. Nearly all colors are acceptable except brindle; the feathered and smooth coat varieties can appear in the same litter..

Coat color is determined by genetics, with some colors being dominant and others recessive. Understanding color genetics can help predict puppy colors and identify responsible breeding practices.

All Saluki Colors

The Saluki is recognized in 8 color variations. Standard colors are those accepted by major kennel clubs for conformation showing, while non-standard colors may occur naturally but are not eligible for the show ring. Both standard and non-standard colored Salukis make equally wonderful companions.

Standard vs Non-Standard Saluki Colors

Standard colors (7): Cream, Fawn, Gold, Red, Grizzle and Tan, Tri-color, Black and Tan. These colors are accepted by the AKC and other major kennel clubs for conformation competition. Standard-colored Salukis are typically priced within the normal $1500–$2500 range.

Non-standard colors (1): White. These colors occur in the breed but are not accepted for conformation showing. Non-standard colors may be priced higher or lower than standard colors depending on demand and breeder practices. Health and temperament are not affected by coat color in most cases.

How Color Affects Saluki Price

While color can influence the price of a Saluki puppy, prospective owners should prioritize health testing, breeder reputation, and temperament over coat color. A responsibly bred Saluki in a common color with comprehensive health clearances is a better investment than a "rare" colored puppy from untested parents. The base price range for Salukis is $1500–$2500, with color-based premiums adding to that range for certain variations.

Saluki Coat Type and Grooming

The Saluki's smooth or feathered coat requires grooming appropriate to its texture and density. With grooming needs rated 2/5 and shedding at 2/5, owners should plan their maintenance routine accordingly.

The Saluki's low-maintenance coat is one of the breed's practical advantages. Weekly brushing removes dead hair and promotes skin health, while baths are needed only when the dog is dirty or every 6–8 weeks. Grooming costs are modest at $68–75 per month, and most routine grooming can be handled at home with basic tools.

Regardless of coat color, all Salukis benefit from regular nail trimming every 2–3 weeks, ear cleaning weekly (especially for breeds with floppy ears), and dental care including brushing three or more times per week. These basic grooming tasks prevent common health problems and keep your dog comfortable.

Saluki Coat Genetics

The Saluki's coat color is the product of several interacting genes. Nearly all colors are acceptable except brindle; the feathered and smooth coat varieties can appear in the same litter..

Modern DNA testing panels can identify a dog's genotype at key color loci, allowing breeders to predict puppy colors and avoid producing colors linked to health issues (such as double merle).

Rare vs Standard Saluki Colors

Among Salukis, the standard colors (Cream, Fawn, Gold, Red, Grizzle and Tan, Tri-color, Black and Tan) are most common. Non-standard colors like White are rarer and may command premium prices above the standard $1500–$2500 range. Buyers should be cautious—extremely rare colors can sometimes be associated with health issues or may indicate crossbreeding.

Nearly all colors are acceptable except brindle; the feathered and smooth coat varieties can appear in the same litter..

Do Saluki Colors Change with Age?

Color evolution is normal in Saluki puppies. As a hound breed originally from Middle East, the transition from puppy to adult coat occurs between 4–12 months and can bring noticeable changes in shade, pattern intensity, and marking definition. Standard colors like Cream, Fawn, Gold, Red, Grizzle and Tan, Tri-color, Black an are generally established by maturity.

Choosing a Saluki by Color

When selecting a Saluki puppy, coat color is one of the most visible factors, but it should be among the last in your decision-making process. Here is a practical framework for evaluating color alongside more important factors:

1. Health testing comes first: Both parents should have documented clearances for breed-relevant conditions including Hemangiosarcoma. No color is worth compromising on health documentation.
2. Temperament matters more: Meet the puppies and both parents when possible. A well-socialized puppy with stable temperament from health-tested parents in a common color outweighs a "rare" colored puppy from an unknown background.
3. Breeder reputation is essential: Reputable breeders prioritize producing healthy, well-tempered puppies and are transparent about all aspects of their program. They do not market "rare" or "exotic" colors at inflated prices.
4. Then consider color: Once health, temperament, and breeder quality are confirmed, choose the color that appeals to you. All 8 recognized Saluki colors can produce healthy, happy companions.

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