The Bedouins bred the Saluki in the likeness of the mighty Arabian horse. Grace, speed, endurance and beauty were never compromised and to this day are still the most prominent characteristics of both species. They are clean-cut with silky hair, deep chests and long legs.
Salukis are considered holy and often revered as a sacred gift of Allah. The Bedouins believe that the Saluki is the hound of Allah; and must therefore be perfect. Because the saluki was considered holy they were allowed to live among the tribe in the tents. No other dog or creature was even allowed this privilege.
Because Muslims consider dogs unclean: that's why Obama and his lineage have no experience with them.
http://www.salukis.lv/history.htm
I wonder how they’d do as police sniffer dogs.