Side by side
Put a few breeds side by side before you make up your mind.
Pick up to four. The URL updates as you go, so you can send this comparison to whoever you are arguing with.
| Breed |  Saluki |  Greyhound |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Middle East and Central Asia | Ancient Egyptian and Greek records depict dogs of Greyhound type, making it one of the oldest breeds in existence. Historically used for hunting by sight across open ground, the breed was refined in Britain for coursing and later track racing, leading to the high numbers of retired ex-racers now seeking homes. |
| Group | Hound | Hound |
| Size | Large | Large |
| Coat | Smooth with silky feathering, or smooth all over | Smooth, short, fine coat in almost any colour including black, white, fawn, blue, red and brindle. |
| Weight | 16 to 29 kg | 26 to 40 kg |
| Height | 58 to 71 cm | 68 to 76 cm |
| Lifespan | 12 to 14 yrs | 10 to 14 yrs |
| Exercise need | 7/10 | 6/10 |
| Affection | 7/10 | 7/10 |
| Grooming needs | 3/10 | 2/10 |
| Barking | 2/10 | 2/10 |
| Good with children | 6/10 | 7/10 |
| Good with other dogs | 5/10 | 6/10 |
| Trainability | 4/10 | 5/10 |
| Prey drive | 10/10 | 9/10 |
| Copes alone | 5/10 | 6/10 |
| Drool | 1/10 | 1/10 |
| Shedding | 3/10 | 3/10 |
| Flat fit | 6/10 | 9/10 |
| Running cost | €100 / month | €170 / month |
Saluki verdict
The ancient desert sighthound: gentle at home, gone at the sight of a hare
Get one if
- · Calm households that value quiet companionship
- · Owners able to use secure fields for regular sprints
- · People happy to walk on lead in open countryside
Think again if
- · Homes with cats or small pets
- · Anyone needing reliable off-lead recall
- · Gardens without tall, secure fencing
Greyhound verdict
The ancient sofa sprinter: a calm, noble hound built for speed and deep naps.
Get one if
- · Flat dwellers looking for a quiet, low-energy large dog
- · Owners who prefer a dog that is calm and clean indoors
- · People who can provide a secure, fenced area for occasional sprints
Think again if
- · Owners wanting a dog that can reliably be trusted off-lead in open spaces
- · Homes with very small animals where prey drive might be a constant issue
- · Active owners looking for a high-intensity, all-day hiking partner