Are Salukis high maintenance?

Time commitment breakdown

Owning a Saluki isn't just about daily walks. Here's what the weekly time commitment actually looks like:

• Grooming: 30–60 mins per week — brushing, bathing, checking ears and nails.
• Exercise: 10–15+ hours per week — walks, off-lead time, active play.
• Training: Regular sessions — Salukis are challenging to train and need consistent, patient work to stay well-behaved.
• Mental stimulation: Daily — puzzle feeders, scent work, or training games are essential for this high-energy breed.

Grooming requirements

Salukis are light shedders — brushing once or twice a week is sufficient for most of the year. Even during seasonal coat changes, the increase is barely noticeable.

A slicker brush and a fine-tooth comb are all you need. Budget around 30–60 mins per week.

Exercise requirements

Salukis are high-energy dogs. They need a minimum of 90 minutes of proper exercise per day — not just a slow stroll, but active movement where they can stretch their legs and use their nose.

Off-lead time, fetch, swimming, hiking, or running alongside a bike: the more vigorous, the better. An under-exercised Saluki will find ways to channel that energy indoors — usually destructively.

Mental stimulation needs

Physical exercise alone isn't enough for most dogs. Salukis also need mental engagement. As a high-energy breed, Salukis have particularly active minds. Without mental stimulation, boredom sets in quickly and manifests as destructive behaviour, excessive barking, or anxiety.

What "low maintenance" actually means day to day

High-maintenance breeds like the Saluki aren't the right choice for every owner — and that's not a criticism. Matching a breed's actual needs to your actual lifestyle is the most important decision in dog ownership. Be honest with yourself: if the time commitment described above feels like too much on a regular week, consider a lower-demand breed.

Is this breed right for your lifestyle?