Naming your Saluki, how should you go about it? One of the most elegant and ancient dog breeds and their name needs to match the elegance, intelligence, and noble heritage that they represent. So, if you want a quirky, powerful, or traditional name, this guide right here will help you find the best name for your very own Saluki. A name provides the very foundation of a dog's identity and serves to cement, and improve, the relationship between pet and human. If you`re wondering "How to name a Saluki?" or "What do I call my Saluki?", this guide will offer inspired ideas for naming your new pup based on the breed’s characteristics, history, and personality.

What is the Best Name for a Saluki?

Things to consider when selecting a Saluki name

Do not rush to decide on a name for your Saluki. Here are some tips to ensure you pick a name that fits their personality and is a word you and your dog can easily recognize:

  1. Short and sweet — Dogs respond best to one- or two-syllable names.
  2. Don’t use potential commands as names — A name like “Bo” (no) or “Kit” (sit), can be very confusing.
  3. Honor their heritage – The Saluki is an ancient breed that hails from the Middle East; you might consider names that reflect their origins.
  4. Match their elegance – The Saluki is the most elegant of breeds, so a stately name may be in order.
  5. Think about their personality – If they’re high energy, snuggly, or low-key, use their name to fit their personality. With these considerations in mind, you’ll make sure that your Saluki’s name is meaningful and practical at the same time.

Best Saluki Names for Males with Meanings

For male Salukis, this name suggests strength, beauty, and elegance.

Elegant Names

  • Oberon — Of royal descent, meaning “noble” or “kingly.” We hope you found the above at least somewhat interesting.
  • Zephyr – A name meaning “gentle breeze,” it would be quite fitting for a sleek and speedy Saluki.

Names with Strength and Nobility

  • Sultan — a powerful Middle Eastern title for a ruler.
  • Khalid — Arabic for “eternal,” fitting for the Saluki’s timeless charm
  • Tariq – An Arabic name that means “morning star.”

Unique Male Names

  • Zahir – A masculine name of Arabic origin meaning “radiant” or “shining.”
  • Ravi – A Sanskrit name that means “sun,” bringing a sense of warmth and energy.
  • Django – A cool, different name after the great musician.
A handsome male Saluki in a majestic pose in the sunset reflecting in his silky skin and long ears

Female Saluki Names and Their Meanings

Use one of these refined, elegant, and regal names for a female Saluki.

Graceful Names

  • Anisa – Arabic meaning “friendly” and “companionable.”
  • Leila — meaning the “night” in Arabic, perfect for a dark-coated Saluki.
  • Zahara — Meaning “flower” or “radiance.”

Rare and Strange Names

  • Selene — Named after the Greek goddess of the moon.
  • Nayla — Arabic for “successful.”
  • Jamila — Arabic name meaning “beautiful.”

Imperial and Historical Names

  • Isis – named for the ancient Egyptian deity.
  • Soraya — Persian for “jewel.”
  • Mina – Of Persian and Arabic origin meaning the enamel or precious stone.
A Saluki on a Persian rug, suggesting ancient nobility

Saluki Names — Unique & Creative

Want something else to read? Inspirational names based on natural phenomena, technological history, and mythology:

  • Atlas – after the Titan of tremendous strength in Greek mythology.
  • Sirocco — The fast desert wind, suitable for a Saluki.
  • Inari — A name from Japanese mythology, meaning, literally, "rice plant"; the god of rice, foxes, and prosperity.
  • Marzipan — A sweet and exotic name, good for a light-colored Saluki.
  • Osiris – An ancient Egyptian god associated with life, death, and renewal.

Don’ts When Naming Your Saluki

Although you may be tempted to get creative, try to stick to names that won’t confuse your dog or make training more difficult. Things to avoid in deciding a name:

  • Hard-to-understand names – If your dog finds it difficult to recognize their name, training will be more difficult.
  • Names that sound like commands – “Sid” is similar to “sit,” and “Ray” might be interpreted as “stay.”
  • Inappropriate cultural references – Avoid names that have sensitive or historical significance.
  • Common dog names – If all the dogs at the park are named “Buddy,” choose something a bit out of the ordinary.

Unwise Name Choices:

  • Kit (close to “sit”)
  • Noah (could be read as “no”)
  • Rocky (too generic for such an extraordinary dog!)

Final Advice on Naming Your Saluki

Once you’ve limited your choices, use these final steps to make the best decision:

  1. Say it out loud – Does it roll from the tongue naturally?
  2. Test it on your dog – Observe their reactions.
  3. Get opinions from family and friends – A second opinion sometimes does the trick.
  4. Think long-term – Pick a name that will still fit them as an adult.

Naming your Saluki is a chance to honor their sophistication, background, and temperament. Get your inspiration for their name from their Middle Eastern background, speed, or royal stature, and your new doggie will have a name that is equally as meaningful.

A person on the phone calling their Salukis as if they're about to go for a walk, conveying the bond between owner and pet.

The Meaning of the Saluki’s Name: Cultural Significance

The Saluki is one of the oldest dog breeds, probably descending from the Middle East and often affiliated with royalty. The breed has been revered by many ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians, Persians, and Bedouins. Due to such a prominent heritage, a name in tune with their legacy can carry special meaning.

Independent Names of Historic and Cultural Importance:

  • Horus – Named after the Egyptian god of the sky, perfect for the majestic Saluki.
  • Zuleika – A Persian name meaning brilliant beauty.
  • Farid – Arabic name meaning unique or precious.
  • Anubis – The Egyptian god of the afterlife, usually depicted with the head of a jackal.
  • Amira – An Arabic name that means princess, ideal for a regal female Saluki.

Choosing meaningful dog names that celebrate their roots creates a connection with your Saluki and their incredible past.

Training and Adjustment: Scenting Your Saluki to Their New Name

After you’ve chosen the paw-some name, the next step is teaching your Saluki to associate that name with themselves. Some breeds might latch onto something new quickly; Salukis are independent thinkers, which means training can be a little different.

How to Teach Your Saluki Their Name:

  1. Use Positive Association – Link the name to a positive stimulus, such as treats or praise.
  2. Spell it Out – Say their name often in a warm, consistent voice.
  3. Make Training Sessions Short – Salukis can get distracted easily, so short, fun training sessions are ideal.
  4. Limit Use for Discipline – Avoid using their name during scolding so they don’t associate it only with negative experiences.
  5. Practice in Different Settings – Call their name during walks, playtime, and quiet moments at home.

Patience is key! Some Salukis respond quickly, while others require a little extra time to develop strong name recognition.

Saluki History and Popular Saluki Names

Famous Salukis or Salukis in history, art, and modern media

If you want a name for your dog that’s well-known (but still rare), consider these famous Salukis:

  • Guinness – The fastest Saluki on record with top speeds of 42 mph.
  • Bashir – An award-winning show Saluki, distinguished by its elegance.
  • Murray – A Saluki featured in popular British media.
  • Taz – A beloved Saluki often seen in agility events.
  • Kaspar – Owned by a European aristocrat, this Saluki achieved legendary status for his radiant looks.

Many dog owners prefer choosing a famous name for their furry friends, which helps imbue a sense of history, nobility, and excellence in their identity.

A Saluki running, torrent of speed that is unique to the breed.

Selecting a Name for Your Saluki

Their rich history and dynamic personality mean that naming your Saluki is a journey in itself. Before you land on a name, be sure that:

  • You admire the name and feel connected to it.
  • It is easy to say, and your dog understands it quickly.
  • It is a reflection of something meaningful—its personality or a piece of history.

Your Saluki’s name will be in your life for years, so you’ll want to spend some time choosing something that feels just right.

A new Saluki puppy and its owner together, testing out different name options.

Conclusion

Naming your Saluki is more than just a pastime—it is a chance to show off their grace, heritage, and personality. The Saluki is one of the oldest and most elegant breeds in the world. Your Saluki deserves a name that is as noble as their noble lineage.

Whether you go for a traditional Middle Eastern name, a royal and dignified title, or something altogether unique, the key is that the name speaks to both you and your pup. A good name will help solidify your bond and ease communication throughout their life.

If you’re still not sure, try out a few names and see which your Saluki reacts to best. It will eventually become ingrained with their identity and a key part of the relationship you have with them.

We hope this guide has provided some inspiration when naming your Saluki! What will you call your Saluki? Tell us which names call out to you in the comments, and share any other excellent ideas!