The Greyhound is a breed that possesses a fascinating history and a charming temperament. Numerous families across the country cherish these elegant dogs as beloved companions.

Greyhound Overview

The greyhound has a streamlined, muscular body specifically designed for speed. The neck and head have a long length.

The greyhound’s characteristic rose ears are typically folded flat against the neck when the dog is relaxed. However, they prick forward and may even stand erect when the greyhound is at attention.

The dog has a distinctive appearance with a slightly arched loin, deep chest, and narrow waist.

The coat is short, smooth, and requires minimal maintenance. The coat is available in various colors, such as white, fawn, red, gray, and brindle.

The Greyhound is a breed that has very little body fat. Therefore, guardians need to ensure that the dog has comfortable resting places. If not, the dog may develop pressure sores.

The average height of a male greyhound ranges from 26 to 30 inches, while its weight typically falls between 65 and 70 pounds. The female weighs approximately 60 to 65 pounds less than the male.

Temperament

The personality of a greyhound can vary depending on his lineage. Still, in general, they are known to be even-tempered and mellow dogs who appreciate relaxation just as much as humans do.

Greyhounds have a strong instinct to hunt using their sight, which means they may be inclined to chase after small animals during walks.

However, they can be trained effectively with some patience and positive reinforcement.

Due to their trainable nature, greyhounds are well-suited for mature families or empty nesters and make excellent pets.

Personality:

The greyhound is well-known for its gentle and quiet disposition. Due to the greyhound’s historical need for group hunting and running, the breed has largely eliminated aggressiveness towards other dogs.

Although the dog possesses a strong prey drive, it may not be suitable for households that have small pets like rabbits.

Greyhounds are known for their tolerance towards children and their non-aggressive nature. They typically choose to walk away from annoyance instead of reacting with snapping or growling.

Despite possessing great athletic ability, the greyhound is content to spend the majority of its day sleeping.

The dog has low endurance and needs less exercise compared to other dogs.

Living with:

Like other sighthounds, Greyhounds possess a strong innate drive to chase.

However, it is still possible for them to coexist with other pets as long as they are given enough time for socialization and training.

This dog is ideal for families seeking a large yet sleek and hygienic dog.

The Greyhound is a breed that typically sheds an average amount of fur, and its short coat is low-maintenance when it comes to grooming.

A safe area for the dog to run is necessary, but contrary to popular belief, it does not require long periods of exercise.

In fact, this breed has earned the nickname “the 40 mph couch potato.” The Greyhound is a friendly and pack-oriented breed that easily forms strong bonds with its adoptive family.

Are Greyhounds suitable for individuals who are new to owning dogs?

Yes! Greyhounds are an excellent breed for prospective dog owners who are looking for a loyal and dignified companion to relax with on the couch or engage in a quick game of fetch.

There’s nothing quite as relaxing as spending time with a Greyhound unless a squirrel suddenly darts by, tempting them to engage in an exhilarating chase.

A Greyhound can quickly adapt to its new home with regular exercise, basic obedience training, and plenty of love.

Are Greyhounds suitable as family pets?

Greyhounds are lovely family pets, although they typically do best in a calm and peaceful environment. Greyhounds rarely bark and prefer a calm environment.

Medium or large dogs are often good companions for them in a home setting. However, their strong chase instinct can pose a problem in households with cats or small dogs.

These dogs can thrive in a household with children as long as they are introduced and suitably adjusted to their new environment.

If your home is high-energy or you already have other pets, it may be worth considering a different breed known to be a good fit for families.

Greyhounds are known for their non-aggressive nature. In reality, Greyhounds tend to become motionless when faced with a challenge.

However, they are easily frightened, particularly when they are touched unexpectedly. Your Greyhound will appreciate it if you mirror its quiet, relaxed, and peaceful demeanor.

Maintaining the Health of Greyhounds

Greyhounds are typically healthy but similar to all breeds; they are susceptible to specific health conditions.

While not all Greyhounds will develop these diseases, it is crucial to have knowledge of them if you are contemplating adopting this breed.

When purchasing a puppy, it is essential to locate a reputable breeder who can provide you with health clearances for both of the puppy’s parents. Health clearances confirm that a dog has undergone testing for a specific condition and is free of it.

Greyhounds should have health clearances from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) for hip dysplasia (with a score of fair or better), elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism, von Willebrand’s disease, Auburn University for thrombophilia, and the Canine Eye Registry Foundation (CERF) for normal eyes.

Health approvals can be verified at offa.org.

Anesthesia Sensitivity:

Sighthounds, such as Greyhounds, have a heightened sensitivity to anesthesia and certain medications.

The low percentage of body fat in Greyhounds makes them more susceptible to the potentially lethal effects of an average dose of medication that would be safe for dogs of similar size.

Select a veterinarian who is knowledgeable about your Greyhound’s sensitivity and is experienced in administering the appropriate dosage.

If you cannot locate a veterinarian who is well-versed in sighthounds, it is essential to inform any veterinarian who provides care for your dog about this specific sensitivity.

Hypothyroidism:

Hypothyroidism is a disease that happens when the thyroid gland doesn’t make enough hormones. Infertility can be considered a mild symptom of the disease.

Some more noticeable signs include obesity, mental sluggishness, lack of energy, drooping eyelids, low hormone levels, and irregular heat cycles.

The dog’s fur becomes coarse and brittle, leading to hair loss. Additionally, the skin becomes harsh and dark.

Hypothyroidism can be effectively managed by administering daily thyroid medication, typically required for the dog’s entire lifespan.

A dog receiving daily thyroid treatment can lead a fulfilling and joyful life.

Osteosarcoma:

Osteosarcoma is an aggressive form of bone cancer that typically affects large and giant breeds of dogs. Lameness generally is the initial indication of osteosarcoma in dogs.

However, a definitive diagnosis of cancer can only be confirmed through the use of X-rays. Osteosarcoma is typically treated through aggressive measures like limb amputation and chemotherapy.

With proper treatment, dogs have the potential to live for nine months to two years or even longer.

Fortunately, dogs can adapt effectively to living with three legs and do not experience the same adverse effects of chemotherapy as humans do, such as nausea and hair loss.

Bloat-related gastric torsion

Bloating occurs when there is a sudden increase in gas and air in the stomach. If left untreated, this condition can lead to the distention and twisting of the abdomen, which can be fatal for dogs.

Typically, the twist requires surgical repair.

Here are some interesting facts about Greyhounds:

• The sighthounds known as “they” are the tallest among all breeds, with males reaching a height of up to 30 inches at the shoulder.
• These animals possess a remarkably calm temperament and are renowned for their gentle nature, earning them the nickname “gentle giants.”
• These dogs are generally low-maintenance and do not need significant exercise.
• Most of the time, they are great with kids and other animals.
• Maintaining a comfortable temperature for them throughout the year is crucial, as they are sensitive to extreme weather conditions. This means keeping them cool during the summer and warm during the winter.
• Although they are not typically recognized for being vocal, they emit a high-pitched whine when they experience excitement.
• Greyhounds are the world’s fastest dog breed, with record-holders sprinting at speeds of 40–45 miles per hour.
• President Rutherford B. Hayes was the proud owner of a pet greyhound named Grim.
• Greyhounds are commonly known as “universal blood donors.” According to the Greyhound Health Collective, it has been found that 85 percent of greyhounds possess a blood type that is compatible for donation to all other dog breeds.

Groups that rescue Greyhounds

Many people buy Greyhounds without fully understanding the responsibilities and commitments that come with owning one.

There are numerous Greyhounds that require adoption or fostering. There are several rescues that we still need to list.

If you cannot find a rescue organization listed for your area, we recommend contacting the national or local breed clubs.

They will be able to provide you with information and guidance on how to connect with a Greyhound rescue organization.

• Greyhounds Galore
• The Greyhound Project
• Greyhound Relocation and Adoption Canada
• Greyhound Pets of America