Saluki Feeding Guide
How much to feed your Saluki — daily calories, portion sizes, and feeding schedule
Originally bred in Middle East, the Saluki has become one of the world's most recognizable large breeds, sitting at #111 in AKC popularity. An ancient, ethereal sighthound who carries the dignity of a pharaoh and the speed of the desert wind in a delicate, feathered frame. The Saluki is a member of the Hound Group — dogs originally developed to track game using their exceptional sense of smell. Their feeding plan should account for their tendency toward weight gain during less active periods. An adult Saluki needs between 923 and 1329 calories per day, though this varies with age, weight, activity level, and individual metabolism.
Adult Salukis (40–65 lbs) typically need 0.6 to 1.3 cups of high-quality dry food per day, divided into two meals. Choose a large-breed formula to support joint health and manage the risk of Hemangiosarcoma. Needs daily sprinting opportunities in a securely fenced area; they require tall fencing as they can clear five-foot barriers from a standstill.—adjust portions based on activity level. Budget $62–95/month for food costs.
Daily Calorie Needs for Saluki
Adult
923-1329
kcal/day
Puppy (peak)
1155
kcal/day (6-9 mo)
Senior
738-1063
kcal/day
Note: Feeding guidelines are estimates based on standard veterinary formulas. Every dog is different — consult your veterinarian for personalized advice.
Feeding Strategy for Salukis
The Saluki has a moderate energy level, making portion control straightforward but still important. Feed 2.4-3.5 cups of quality kibble daily, divided into two meals. A standard adult maintenance formula with balanced macronutrients works well. Monitor weight monthly, as moderate-energy breeds can gradually gain weight if portions aren't adjusted for actual activity.
Saluki Feeding Schedule
Morning (7-8 AM)
1.2-1.8 cups kibble
Evening (5-6 PM)
1.2-1.8 cups kibble
Split Meals
Portion Sizes by Food Type
Daily Portions for Saluki
Based on average adult weight and activity level
| Food Type | Daily Amount | Calories | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dry Kibble | 2.4-3.5 cups | 923-1329 kcal | 2 meals/day | ~380 kcal per cup |
| Wet Food | 3.7-5.3 cans | 923-1329 kcal | 2 meals/day | ~250 kcal per 13oz can |
| Raw Diet | 13-31 oz | 923-1329 kcal | 2 meals/day | 2-3% of body weight |
- Amount
- 2.4-3.5 cups
- Calories
- 923-1329 kcal
- Frequency
- 2 meals/day
~380 kcal per cup
- Amount
- 3.7-5.3 cans
- Calories
- 923-1329 kcal
- Frequency
- 2 meals/day
~250 kcal per 13oz can
- Amount
- 13-31 oz
- Calories
- 923-1329 kcal
- Frequency
- 2 meals/day
2-3% of body weight
Exercise & Feeding for Salukis
Moderate daily exercise (45-60 minutes of walks and play) keeps the Saluki fit and helps regulate appetite. Most Salukis do well on a consistent daily portion without needing exercise-day adjustments. If your dog gets significantly more activity on weekends (long hikes, beach trips), you can add a small handful of kibble to their evening meal on those days.
Heart-Supportive Nutrition
Salukis have a genetic predisposition to Cardiomyopathy, making heart-supportive nutrition especially important. Choose foods naturally rich in taurine (found in animal proteins, especially dark meat and organ meats) and L-carnitine. Keep sodium moderate — not salt-free, but avoid high-sodium treats and table scraps. The FDA has investigated potential links between grain-free diets and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM); while research is ongoing, discussing diet choices with your veterinarian is prudent for this breed. Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil have demonstrated cardiovascular benefits in dogs, supporting healthy heart rhythm and reducing inflammation.
Thyroid Health & Diet
Hypothyroidism is a recognized concern in Salukis, affecting metabolism, weight, coat quality, and energy level. A Saluki with untreated hypothyroidism may gain weight despite eating normal portions, develop a thin or dull coat, and become lethargic. If your Saluki shows these signs, a simple blood test can confirm the diagnosis. While thyroid medication (levothyroxine) is the primary treatment, dietary support matters: ensure adequate iodine and selenium in the diet, maintain strict portion control to prevent weight gain, and consider a weight-management formula if your dog is on thyroid medication but still struggling with weight.
Common Feeding Mistakes to Avoid
Using a puppy formula designed for small breeds
Large and giant breed puppies need controlled calcium and phosphorus levels to prevent developmental orthopedic diseases. Always choose a large-breed puppy formula that supports slow, steady growth rather than rapid weight gain.
Blaming laziness for weight gain without checking thyroid
Salukis are predisposed to hypothyroidism, which slows metabolism and causes weight gain even on normal portions. If your Saluki is gaining weight despite measured feeding, ask your vet for a thyroid panel before simply cutting food.
Switching foods abruptly without a transition period
Any diet change — brand, flavor, or formula — should happen gradually over 7-10 days. Mix increasing amounts of the new food with decreasing amounts of the old. Abrupt switches cause digestive upset (diarrhea, vomiting, gas) in most dogs, Salukis included.
Not accounting for treats in the daily calorie budget
Treats should never exceed 10% of your Saluki's daily calorie intake. A single dental chew can contain 70-90 calories — significant for a dog that only needs 788 calories per day. Subtract treat calories from meal portions.
Saluki-Specific Feeding Tips
Tip 1
Tip 2
Tip 3
Tip 4
Tip 5
Breed-Specific Nutritional Needs
Based on health conditions common in Salukis, consider these nutritional adjustments:
Iodine & Selenium
Ensure adequate iodine and selenium in the diet. Weight management is important as hypothyroidism can cause weight gain.
Antioxidants
Include foods rich in antioxidants (vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, lutein). Blueberries and carrots make excellent treats.
Saluki Ideal Weight
Is your Saluki at a healthy weight? The ideal range is 40–65 lbs (males 40–65, females 34–57). Check these three signs: Ribs: Easily felt with light pressure; not visible but not buried under fat. Waistline: A clear narrowing behind the ribs when viewed from above.
Male Saluki
40-65 lbs
18-29 kg
Female Saluki
34-57 lbs
15-26 kg
Related Guides
Feeding Guides for Similar Breeds
Frequently Asked Questions
Feeding Guidelines Disclaimer
The feeding recommendations on DosageGuide.com are estimates based on standard veterinary nutrition formulas (RER = 70 × weight^0.75) and general guidelines from AAFCO and veterinary nutrition resources.
Every dog is unique. Actual calorie needs vary based on breed, metabolism, activity level, health conditions, spay/neuter status, and the specific food brand you use. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized feeding advice.
These guides are for general reference and do not replace professional veterinary guidance. Adjust portions based on your dog's body condition score and weight trends.