Updated · Published by Radif Partners
Saluki Colors & Coat Guide
All recognized Saluki colors, coat types, genetics, and how color can impact pricing and health.
The Saluki belongs to the Hound group and originates from Middle East. Adults typically weigh between 40 and 65 pounds, standing 23 to 28 inches at the shoulder. Life expectancy runs from 10 to 17 years, and the figures on this page describe that range rather than a single average, because the spread is what matters when you are deciding. Running costs settle around $172 a month once the dog is past puppyhood, before insurance and before anything unexpected. These numbers come from published breed standards and, where a standard is silent, from longevity and veterinary studies; they describe the breed as a population and not the dog in front of you. Line, upbringing, early socialisation and simple chance move an individual well away from the typical profile, and two dogs of the same breed often differ more than two dogs of different breeds. Nothing here is a diagnosis: for a specific animal, a veterinary surgeon who has examined it will always know more than a table.
Saluki Colors Overview
Nearly all colors are acceptable except brindle; the feathered and smooth coat varieties can appear in the same litter.. The breed standard defines which colors are acceptable for competition.
Prospective owners should understand that color has no bearing on a dog's temperament or health (with rare exceptions linked to specific color genes). Choose a Saluki based on health, temperament, and breeder quality, not color alone.
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
| Standard colors | Normal pricing ($1500–$2500) |
| Rare/unusual colors | Premium pricing (+$750–$1250) |
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
Saluki coat color is controlled by several genes that determine pigment production and distribution. The primary genes include the E (extension) locus, A (agouti) locus, K (dominant black) locus, and B (brown) locus.
DNA color testing is available and can help breeders predict puppy colors and identify carriers of recessive genes. Nearly all colors are acceptable except brindle; the feathered and smooth coat varieties can appear in the same litter..
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?
Do not be surprised if your Saluki puppy's color changes as they grow. The puppy coat gives way to the adult coat between 4 and 12 months. Colors like Cream, Fawn may shift, sometimes dramatically, during this transition. Nearly all colors are acceptable except brindle; the feathered and smooth coat varieties can appear in the same litter..
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:
- Health testing comes first: Both parents should have documented clearances for breed-relevant conditions including Hemangiosarcoma. No color is worth compromising on health documentation.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Controversial Colors
Not all Saluki colors are created equal in the eyes of breed standards. The 8 recognized colors have well-understood genetics, but colors marketed as 'exotic' or 'designer' may fall outside breed standards and can sometimes be linked to health issues. Nearly all colors are acceptable except brindle; the feathered and smooth coat varieties can appear in the same litter..
Frequently Asked Questions
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