How much does a Saluki puppy cost?

Saluki puppies cost $1,500 to $4,000 because the economics of breeding them responsibly are stacked. First, they’re rare—ranked 120th in popularity—so there aren’t many breeders, and demand doesn’t drive mass production. That limited supply actually keeps ethical breeders from cutting corners, but it also means fewer litters overall. Breeding Salukis isn’t easy. They’re large hounds with deep chests, making whelping riskier; some require C-sections, which adds thousands in vet costs. Then there’s health testing. Reputable breeders screen for cardiomyopathy, hip dysplasia, and hemangiosarcoma—each test runs hundreds of dollars—and because Salukis are anesthesia-sensitive, even routine procedures carry extra risk and cost. You’re not just paying for the puppy, you’re covering years of genetic screening, high-quality nutrition, and careful socialization. A price under $1,200 should raise red flags. That likely means skipped health tests, no genetic screening, or worst case, a backyard breeder or puppy mill cutting every corner. These dogs can live 12–14 years, so skimping upfront often leads to $5,000+ in vet bills down the road. The real cost of a Saluki isn’t the purchase price—it’s the breeder’s commitment to keeping this ancient, fragile breed healthy and sound.