Russell Terrier vs Saluki

Terrier · Small vs Hound · Large

Quick take
  • Saluki is the larger breed at 40–65 lbs (males) vs 9–15 lbs for the Russell Terrier.
  • The Saluki typically lives longer (10–17 years).
  • The Russell Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Saluki sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitRussell TerrierSaluki
Group
TerrierHound
Size
SmallLarge
Origin
EnglandEgypt
Height (male)
10–12"23–28"
Height (female)
10–12"23–28"
Weight (male)
9–15 lbs40–65 lbs
Weight (female)
9–15 lbs40–65 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–14 years10–17 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
High (4/5)Very Low (1/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
shortmedium
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
Ad slot · compare-mid

About the Russell Terrier

The Russell Terrier is a lively, alert, inquisitive English fox-bolter — shorter-legged cousin of Jack Russell, equally feisty. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 9–15 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as lively, alert, inquisitive.

About the Saluki

The Saluki is a graceful, dignified, gentle Persian sighthound — one of the world's oldest breeds, depicted on Egyptian tombs. Originally from Egypt, this large hound breed typically weighs 40–65 lbs and lives 10–17 years. Breeders describe them as graceful, dignified, gentle.

Ad slot · compare-bottom

Russell Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Eye disorders
  • Deafness

Saluki health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Heart disease
  • Cancer
  • Anesthesia sensitivity