Feeding a Saluki requires understanding their unique appetite patterns and athletic needs. These elegant hounds can be quite particular about their food - some are enthusiastic eaters who'll polish off their bowl in seconds, while others are more discerning and prefer to graze throughout the day. This individual variation means you'll need to observe your dog's eating habits and adjust accordingly.

A high-quality, medium-breed dog food forms the foundation of their diet, with the 90/10 rule applying - 90% complete dog food and 10% treats. Adult Salukis typically do best with two meals daily, morning and evening, which also helps reduce the risk of bloat. If you have multiple dogs, feed your Saluki separately, as they might steal other dogs' food or vice versa.

Portion control is crucial since Salukis can be prone to obesity despite their athletic appearance. Follow feeding guidelines on quality dog food packaging, but always consult your vet to determine the right amount based on your dog's age, weight, and activity level. Active Salukis burning energy through daily runs and exercise will need more calories than those with lighter exercise routines.

Given their athletic nature and deep chest, timing matters. Never exercise vigorously immediately after meals to prevent dangerous bloat. Wait at least an hour after eating before any intense activity. Fresh water should always be available.

Consider joint supplements during early adult years to support their active lifestyle and minimise joint inflammation over time. Australian owners living in warmer climates should ensure constant access to fresh water, especially during summer exercise sessions. Always discuss dietary changes or supplements with your vet to ensure you're meeting your individual Saluki's nutritional needs.

Here's some fantastic news for busy Australian families - Salukis are remarkably low-maintenance when it comes to grooming! These naturally clean dogs rarely develop that typical "doggy" odour, and they shed very little year-round, making them excellent companions for households that prefer minimal hair cleanup.

Salukis come in two coat varieties: smooth and feathered. Smooth Salukis have short hair all over and require minimal grooming - a quick brush once or twice weekly keeps them looking their best. Feathered Salukis sport longer, silky hair on their ears, legs, and tail, requiring slightly more attention to prevent matting in these areas. A gentle brushing session twice weekly will keep their feathering beautiful and tangle-free.

Bathing is only necessary when they're genuinely dirty or before special events. Their naturally clean coat repels most dirt, and over-bathing can strip essential oils. When you do bathe them, use a gentle dog shampoo and ensure thorough rinsing, especially around the feathered areas.

Eye care is straightforward - Salukis naturally produce clear or brown discharge to keep their eyes clean from airborne particles. Simply wipe away any discharge with a warm, damp cloth to prevent tear staining around their beautiful oval eyes.

For feathered Salukis, consider using a snood or ear wrap during mealtimes to keep their elegant ear feathering out of their food bowl - it's a simple trick that saves cleanup time and keeps them looking dignified.

Ear cleaning isn't needed as frequently as with some breeds, but check regularly for any signs of infection, especially after swimming at Australian beaches or getting caught in summer rain. Their ears should be cleaned after water activities using a routine ear cleaner with drying agents.

Training a Saluki is like working with a brilliant but independent-minded partner - they're incredibly intelligent but prefer to think for themselves rather than blindly follow commands. This ancient breed was developed to make split-second hunting decisions across vast desert landscapes, so their independent streak runs deep. Australian owners need patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement methods to succeed.

Start obedience training early as a puppy, using reward-based methods and keeping sessions short and engaging. The Saluki Club of America recommends positive reinforcement exclusively - harsh methods will only make these sensitive souls shut down. Crate training is essential since they can become destructive when bored or anxious, and it provides them with a safe space when you're away.

Exercise requirements are substantial - these athletes need at least two hours of activity daily to stay physically and mentally healthy. In Australia's varied climate, it's critical to plan exercise around the heat. During summer in cities like Brisbane or Perth where temperatures can top 35°C, this means sticking to early morning or late evening activities to prevent heatstroke.

A securely fenced yard is non-negotiable - Salukis can reach speeds of almost 70 km/h and will chase anything that moves, from cats to wildlife. Their sight-hunting instincts are incredibly strong, so they're never truly reliable off-leash in unfenced areas. Many Australian dog sports clubs offer lure coursing, which perfectly channels their natural abilities.

Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise. These intelligent dogs become destructive when bored, so puzzle toys, training games, and varied activities keep their minds engaged. Remember, a tired Saluki is a well-behaved Saluki, but they also need quiet downtime to recharge their batteries.