Saluki Health Guide

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Understanding the health profile of the Saluki helps owners make informed decisions about screening, insurance, and preventive care. Like many pedigree breeds, the Saluki is prone to certain hereditary and acquired health conditions, most notably Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), Hip Dysplasia, and Hypothyroidism. With attentive care, most Salukis can be expected to live 12–14 years.

Lifespan 12–14 years
Documented Conditions 5
Size Category medium
Group Hound

Conditions Affecting Salukis

  • Category: Eye Typical onset: 3-8 years Est. treatment cost: £0 (management only)

    PRA is a group of hereditary diseases causing progressive degeneration of the photoreceptor cells in the retina. It leads to night blindness first, followed by complete blindness. There is no treatment, but DNA tests exist for many forms.

    Key symptoms: Night blindness (early sign) · Reluctance to enter dark rooms · Dilated pupils · Reduced daytime vision · +1 more
    Full details, symptoms & treatment
  • Hip Dysplasia High Risk Hereditary
    Category: Orthopedic Typical onset: 1-2 years Est. treatment cost: £1,500-£6,000

    Hip dysplasia is a genetic condition where the hip joint doesn't develop properly, causing the ball and socket to not fit together correctly. This leads to joint deterioration, pain, and arthritis over time.

    Key symptoms: Difficulty rising · Reluctance to jump · Bunny-hopping gait · Loss of thigh muscle · +1 more
    Full details, symptoms & treatment
  • Hypothyroidism Low Risk Hereditary
    Category: Endocrine Typical onset: 4-10 years Est. treatment cost: £300-£800/year

    Hypothyroidism is the most common endocrine disorder in dogs, caused by reduced thyroid hormone production — most often from immune-mediated thyroiditis or idiopathic follicular atrophy. It affects metabolism, skin, and coat quality.

    Key symptoms: Weight gain without diet change · Lethargy · Cold intolerance · Bilateral symmetrical hair loss · +2 more
    Full details, symptoms & treatment

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