Saluki Whippet Dog Breed

The Saluki x Whippet mix, as a crossbreed, is not an official member of any breed group--but since both parent breeds are part of the Hound group in the AKC and other clubs, these hybrids would fit nicely in that category. Neither does any info exist about this mixed breed's specific origin; while a Saluki-Whippet cross has probably existed naturally for a long time, no breeder or breed club has claimed its creation. Whatever the case, these lightning-fast, intelligent, sensitive sighthound mixes will make good pets for active families--but they'll need a lot of exercise, and they're best suited for experienced dog owners.

A few facts about the Whippet-Saluki cross: they're medium-sized, averaging 21 inches at the shoulders in height and 45 pounds in weight; they have short, smooth coats that don't shed too much; and they're extremely energetic and will need a great deal of exercise.

Some advantages and drawbacks to owning a Whippet x Saluki mix:

Some important Saluki-Whippet mix information: these hybrids are the offspring of two similar sighthound breeds--both of which are lean, speedy, and sensitive, so a Saluki-Whippet cross will surely inherit those characteristics. Physically, these dogs are thin but muscular: height at the shoulders is typically 19-23 inches, and weight usually runs 35-55 pounds. Their short coats come in a wide variety of colors, in both solid and multi-colored patterns: black, brown, blue, red, tan, chocolate, and more are all possible. The coats can also have brindle, grizzle, and/or white markings.

These hybrids are sighthounds with high prey drives--so they're apt to take off after small animals at any time. Not only will they need to live in homes with fenced yards--they're just too energetic for apartments--they'll need to be supervised when outdoors. Saluki-Whippet mixes are capable of leaping fences when chasing critters, so they'll need to be watched closely at all times. They'll need to be leashed when out in public as well.

Saluki-Whippet mixes will also need plenty of exercise, mainly in the form of running. Walks, jogs or bicycle rides, fetch and other games, and all manner of canine sports are all great activities for these hybrids.

Friendly, intelligent, highly energetic, quiet, and often standoffish and shy, the Saluki-cross-Whippet temperament is one of both activity and sensitivity. These hybrids will be affectionate with and loyal to family members, but they can be fearful of new people, animals, and situations. Lots of socialization (starting when the dog is a puppy if possible) will be great for a Saluki-Whippet mix. This crossbreed will get along well with kids and other pets, but the dog's high prey drive might cause it to instinctively chase small animals; owners say it's best if your Saluki-Whippet mix grows up alongside any children or household pets, so they learn to be accustomed to one another.

In regards to training: these hybrids are smart and willing to please, and will usually respond well to training. They should be able to learn commands, tasks, and tricks without too much trouble. As with any dog, firm, consistent, reward-based training methods are best.

And a not-so-good aspect of the Whippet-Saluki cross temperament is its watchdog skills (or lack thereof). While alert and loyal, these hybrids aren't super-confident, nor do they bark much--so a Saluki-Whippet mix isn't too liable to bark at or investigate unknown sights or sounds.

A Saluki-Whippet mix, due to hybrid vigor (in which a crossbred dog inherits the healthiest traits of its parent breeds), is very healthy. Even so, these hybrids can suffer ailments common to the parent breeds including sensitivity to anesthesia and other dugs, along with various heart and blood defects (cardiomyopathy and Von Willebrand's Disease, among others). Potential owners are advised to ask breeders for health screenings for the dog and/or its parents, or they can have their own veterinarians do the screenings.

Life expectancy for these hybrids is 12-14 years.