Discovering Greyhounds from Ancient History to Modern Day

This Regal Hound is the oldest known breed to man. In the ancient times of Africa and Arabia--the fastest hound reigned the region. Greyhounds were bred for their fleeting grace and extraordinary speed when hunting with their owners.

In Egypt, greyhounds were revered, worshiped and a member of the Pharaoh's family--only the first son had a higher ranking. In the Pharaoh's tomb, there would be drawings on the wall and tapestries of his greyhounds so that they could join him in the afterlife. When the Pharaoh’s favorite companion past away, the family would mourn for two days and mummify the hound to join his master in the near future. As seen in the pictures above, this breed has hardly changed in the 4,000 years of its existence.

In Russia, Greece, Rome and Babylon there was a different type of greyhound breed named the Saluki which had a longer coat to withstand the cold desert nights. This breed adapted to the treacherous terrain, sandstorms and drastic daily temperature changes. The leaders of the caravans held the Saluki's with high regard and would never sell them to other travelers. However, on special occasions, they were given as an honored gift to a revered warrior.