Last Updated on September 20, 2023
Greyhounds are known for their lightning fast running speed and have become the fastest dog in the country. They run at around 45 miles per hour, which is an incredible feat. Greyhounds are a royal status symbol as well as being fearless companions to hunters since ancient times. They have been loved for many generations. Greyhounds are still hunted, and their agility is a major factor in winning in the forests and fields. The Greyhound is a fantastic, athlete. It excels in competitive agility and obedience as well as lure coursing.
Greyhounds are a wonderful pet for families. Greyhounds are sweet and affectionate dogs. They are most at home in homes that give them lots of attention. They will also be more patient with children. You’ll quickly discover that this breed is full o’ surprises. The Greyhound is more comfortable cuddling up with their family than being active.
This article will cover everything you need to know about the amazing dog. We will discuss their history and how they behave, as well as their appearance and what you need to know about caring. Learning about them will allow you to give your Greyhound the best possible life. Are you ready to start? Let’s get started.
Breed History
The Greyhound’s history is difficult to start, especially since they were so old. The Greyhound may be the oldest purebred dog on the planet. Greyhound bones have been found in Mesopotamian graves dating back to the Ubaid Period in 5000 BCE. Greyhounds have been honored in Ancient Egypt for their role as companions, guard dogs, and pets for many centuries. They were actually the preferred dogs of the pharaohs, and they stayed with them during their masters’ rule. Greyhounds were revered enough that they were buried alongside their pharaohs and other noble blood masters.
It is believed that Greyhounds are the descendants of the first sighthounds. These sighthounds were renowned in Ancient Greece and Rome. Scholars believe that the dog Argos, from Homer’s epic poem The Odyssey, was defined in ways that clearly depicted a sighthound. Argos had recognized Odysseus in disguise even 20 years after he had been away from home. Greyhounds were valued companions in the courts and on the fields. The Greyhound’s long and rich history was not without its difficulties. After several centuries, the Middle Ages brought about an awful famine that almost drove the Greyhound from its home. They remained resilient and the Greyhound population stabilized with the help priests who had bred them to serve the nobility.
Greyhounds came to America from Europe by immigrants. They were recognized by the AKC in 1885, along with 14 other breeds. As the world became more industrialized, hunting lost its popularity with the elite. Greyhounds were still popular with coursing, and later . racing. Owen Patrick Smith brought the sport to America in the early 1900s with his invention of the artificial lure, revolutionizing Greyhound racing. The popularity of Greyhound racing soared throughout the 20th Century, though it had begun to decline in England in the 1970s. In 1991, Greyhound racing reached its peak, being the sixth most popular spectator sport. The sport has seen a decline in popularity since then.
There have been many opponents to Greyhound racing throughout its history. Many of them are injured in the races; from 2008 to 2018, at least 15,000 Greyhound injuries were reported. Many of these dogs end up dying. They are often kept in confinement for extended hours in small cages that don’t allow for movement. Greyhounds bred to race are often put down. These reasons are why Greyhound racing in America is declining in popularity.
We hope that these tracks will be closed in the near future. We urge you to visit your shelter and see if you can adopt someone. Despite contributing to canine overpopulation, Greyhounds are the 142nd most popular dog in America, according to the AKC’s list of 195 breeds. It’s like owning a piece of history by bringing one of these dogs home. Your job is to bring them back to their beloved status as a canine companion.
Temperament
There are many positive things about the Greyhound. They are described by the AKC as “gentle and independent” and “[and] noble”. They are affectionate and friendly, but never aggressive. These dogs can also be stubborn at times, and may seem a little bit cat-like.
While they are the fastest running dogs, Greyhounds actually quite content not to exercise too vigorously . They will be content as long as there is something for them to do at home. They are a great choice for families with busy schedules, as they can be taken on long walks.
Greyhounds are very sensitive, so be kind to them. When they are nervous they can be timid so they need to be reassured by a calm owner. They are great pets . because of their gentle nature. They make great pets and are good with children. They may not be able to get along with smaller pets.
Greyhounds were bred to hunt and will possess a high predator drive. They may pursue smaller animals around the house, as they can be considered to be their quarry. You’ll be pleasantly surprised at how loving these dogs can be. They may require more attention than others if you can get over this. This breed can develop separation anxiety so make sure they are never left alone.
Greyhounds are not very good watch dogs as they don’t bark often. Although you might not be able count on these dogs to alert you when they see you, they are generally happy to meet new people. They are almost always polite, even if they don’t.
If motivated properly, the sighthound can be trained to perform a variety of tasks . They are great for service dogs. They are also great therapy dogs, as they have a personable nature that allows them to be a companion for those who require canine companionship.
Size Appearance
Greyhounds are instantly recognisable by their iconic appearance. They are tall, sleek, and athletic with an aerodynamic body which allows for high running speed. Greyhounds are a medium-large dog with gorgeous bone structures standing at around 28 to 30 inches at the shoulder for males, while females stand at 27 to 28 inches. Males weigh anywhere from 65 to 85 pounds, whereas females weigh 50 to 65 pounds.
Greyhounds have long, narrow heads. It extends between the ears. The AKC describes their muzzles as long and strong. They have even strong teeth. Greyhounds have small ears that are folded and thrown back. However, they can sometimes prick when they get excited. They are intelligent and bright with dark brown eyes. Both their lips and nose are black.
It’s muscular neck has a slight arch and gradually widens into the shoulders. With no sizable difference between the neck and head diameter, a harness is a better choice than a standard collar. They have muscular shoulders, which are placed obliquely. Their chests are deep enough to allow for maximum speed; and their ribs are well-sprung. They have well-defined backs with strong muscular features. They have a well-arched back, which gives them the “inverted S” shape.
The tail is tapered and long, with a slight upward curve. Their forequarters are straight and do not curve in or out. Their hind legs are very long which gives them their champion running abilities . Their hindquarters have a strong, powerful structure. They are well let down which allows for an upward-slanting stance. Their hocks are very close to the ground. Greyhounds have feet that are hard and close to the ground, much like hares.
If you are seeking a slightly smaller dog with similar characteristics and personality, you might consider its smaller cousin, the Whippet or maybe even a Greyhound mixed breed.
Coats and Colors
Greyhounds are short-haired and have a thin coat. The fine, smooth coat lends itself well to grooming .. Because of their thin coats, they are not well-suited for colder temperatures. Make sure you keep them warm in winter. Unfortunately, despite lack of coat density, Greyhounds are not hypoallergenic.
It is interesting to notice that the AKC does not have a standard for Greyhound’s coat colors. They can be a variety of colors and patterns so no two Greyhounds are the same. Greyhounds come in a variety of colors, including gray, blue and black as well as silver, red, cream, white, and fawn. You may also see combinations of these colors, especially when combined with white. Greyhounds can also be seen in brindle patterns, which is where you see dark flecks of colour on a tawny-colored coat.
Exercise
Greyhounds are the champion runners in the dog world. However, they have low-energy requirements . They are not suited for strenuous exercise and prefer to walk along with you rather than do anything exhausting. Because they can run so fast, it is important to keep your Greyhound under control. They will quickly outrun you , and then get lost. It is important to train them to be on a leash.
Greyhounds are high-prey drive , and will chase down any small creatures they find. The fence should be well secured when your dog is allowed outside. Greyhounds can wanderlust and the fence should not be negotiable.
Aside from this, make sure your Greyhound is occupied at home. Giving them toys and activities will help curb destructive behavior that may arise when they get bored. Your Greyhound will be fine living in an apartment as long as they have enough stimulation. They are well-suited for urban and rural living because they don’t bark often.
Living Requirements
Greyhounds can get cold easily, so make sure you have a sweater for your dog in colder areas. Your home should be equipped with a heater to ensure your dog doesn’t get too cold .. Greyhounds can be able to live in warmer weather, but they need plenty of shade and water during the summer months. You should also remember that Greyhounds are tall and will require elevated food and water.
Training
Greyhounds take fairly well to training, though you should still take care not to upset them. These dogs are very sensitive , and will respond very strongly to any harshness. You should be patient with your dog if they are stubborn. However, you should also guide them with confidence and firmness.
Leading them as their leader will make it clear that they are expected to take you seriously. When they return home, obedience training should start. Greyhounds may have trouble following the “sit” command , as it can seem unnatural to them.
A good relationship with your dog is key to a happy home. Positive reinforcement is the best way to achieve this. Positive reinforcement helps your dog stay motivated .. Once your dog is trained in basic obedience and leash walking, you can move on to more difficult tricks. You can train your Greyhound to do the things they love, such as competitive agility or lure coursing. This should not be difficult if you have a good relationship.
Socializing your Greyhound can be very important as they may be shy. Socialization starts as soon as they are part of your family. It will make a huge difference in their mental health if they can learn to adapt to different people, animals, situations, and places.
If they are still shy around family members, it might be a good idea for them to be introduced gently over a period of several weeks and kept apart when necessary. This is especially true for adopted Greyhounds. If you have a Greyhound puppy, enrolling in puppy kindergarten classes is a great way to boost their self-esteem. It helps them learn how to be a good dog and to have fewer mishaps with other dogs.
Health
Greyhounds can be healthy and you can ensure their well-being by buying one from a trusted breeder. Good breeders will perform all necessary screening in order to ensure a healthy dog. Greyhounds can live anywhere from 10 to 15 years. You can make the most of their years by taking care of them.
But, Greyhounds, like all dogs, are still vulnerable to illness. You can make a big difference in your dog’s quality of life by understanding the signs and symptoms early. You will be able to inform your vet if you notice any of these symptoms. Although not all Greyhounds will be affected by these diseases, it is a good idea to have this information handy. Below are three common ailments Greyhounds might experience.
Hip Dysplasia
Greyhounds are very active and it is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of hip dysplasia. Hip dysplasia can be inherited. Breeders who are good will screen for hip dysplasia. Ask your breeder if you have any questions. Hip dysplasia, a condition in which your dog’s hip socket is not properly fitted, is a condition. A limp, unusual gait or unusual posture can all be signs of hip dysplasia. This condition can be very painful and should be avoided. There are many treatment options, including weight loss, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism refers to a hormonal condition in which the thyroid is not functioning. The disease can manifest as weight gain, hair fall, skin thickening or darkening, irregular heat cycles, and lethargy. Infertility may also occur in your dog. This condition can last a lifetime so be aware. A daily thyroid medication is used to regulate your dog’s hormones. Hypothyroidism can be treated by a daily thyroid medication. Your Greyhound will live a happy, healthy life as long as you give it medication on a regular basis.
Gastric Torsion
Gastric torsion and bloat can occur in Greyhounds with a deep chest. This can be fatal and serious. When the stomach becomes engorged with air that cannot be expelled, it is called gastric torsion. When a dog can’t vomit, their blood pressure drops and they go into shock. This is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. The following signs can be used to detect gastric torsion:
- Distended belly
- Retching without vomiting
- Restlessness
- Excessive drooling
- Increased heart rate
Gastric torsion can be avoided. Gastric torsion can be caused by dogs who eat too fast, eat too often, drink too much water, or exercise too soon after eating. Bloat can be reduced by giving your dog enough food and water. You should not allow your dog to exercise until at least one hour has passed since the last meal.
Nutrition
You’ll need to feed your Greyhound a healthy diet throughout their lives. Your Greyhound’s health is dependent on good nutrition. Proper nutrition is essential for your dog’s development throughout his puppyhood. Your dog’s most crucial developmental stage is puppyhood.
In the senior and adult years, your dog’s diet will be more focused on maintenance of a healthy body and good health . It is important that your dog receives food appropriate to their age. This will ensure that your dog grows well into adulthood and maintains its health throughout their lives.
There are so many food options on the market that it can be confusing to shop. The best option for your dog’s nutritional needs is the easiest. All-natural, dry food is the best option because it has all the nutrients needed to keep your dog healthy. Avoid food that claims it is suitable for all life stages, as each person will have different nutritional needs. refrain from using products that contain artificial ingredients. These will only cause harm to your dog’s health.
The amount of food your Greyhound should eat will be determined by a number of factors. These factors include age, size, activity level, and gender. Your Greyhound will not eat as many calories as other dogs their size. This is, of course, provided that they aren’t engaging in sports such as competitive agility. Your Greyhound puppy will need nutrient-dense food to help them grow up strong; their portion sizes will change as they grow.
As adults Greyhounds will require more food. However, it will not be as calorie-dense. Seniors need to eat less food, but they still require enough protein to maintain their muscles. Your veterinarian will help you choose the right food for your dog. Overfeeding your dog can cause obesity. This can lead to many preventable illnesses.
If your dog is showing signs of developed pickiness ,, there are several ways you can help. Be more strict about when they eat. Leave their food out for 30 minutes; if it goes untouched, take it away. Your dog should not eat the food until they have finished their meal. This helps your dog understand how their food is not always available and gives them a sense of urgency at mealtime. You can also make the dry kibble more digestible by adding wet food to it.
Grooming
Unfortunately, Greyhounds shed a lot. They are therefore not hypoallergenic. Since they shed a lot, you will need to brush your Greyhound daily in order to get rid of the excess fur. This is easy to do. As needed, you can use a rubber currybrush to brush them.
Your Greyhound doesn’t need to take frequent baths. However, a mild dog shampoo is best for bath time. Warm water is best as Greyhounds can get very cold easily. Rinse well and leave no soap residue. Your dog’s skin. can be irritated by soapy residue You can clean them off between baths. This breed is very clean.
It is important to clean your Greyhound’s ears; to prevent infection. You can remove excess wax and debris by wiping the ears with a cotton ball. The vet will also provide an ear cleaning solution. Trim your dog’s nails once to every other month to avoid splitting, cracking and injury.
Finally, make sure you take good care of your Greyhounds’ teeth. This breed is prone to poor dental hygiene ,, which can lead to many diseases. Regular use of a toothpaste and toothbrush made specifically for dogs will keep your dog’s teeth clean and their breath fresh.
To make grooming as simple as possible for your dog incorporate it into their training . Basic obedience commands can make the process go much smoother. Grooming should be a relaxing experience, especially for sensitive dogs. Gently guiding them through their grooming activity will make them enjoy it and create a special bonding activity.
Breeders & Puppy Costs
Agreeing to adopt a Greyhound from a reputable source can be a wonderful way to bring a wonderful dog into your home. Be careful, though, as there are many unreliable breeders. Puppy mills are often run by unscrupulous breeders who do not take the welfare of the dogs into account. These places are filthy and have little access to water, fresh air, or food. Puppy mills will not respect the animals and will often abuse dogs in order to maximize their puppy production. Avoid these breeders and be responsible.
Many Greyhound breeders are passionate about their dogs and show love for them. If your breeder is passionate about the breed, and willing to show you the dogs’ homes, it will be obvious. Your puppy’s home will be comfortable and have lots of toys.
Good breeders are happy for you to get to know your puppy in a few weeks before bringing them home. This will allow you to make a smooth transition into your home life. They will be happy to answer any questions you might have about your puppy, as well as the most important information about raising a puppy. You will be issued a veterinary certificate for any tests, vaccinations and deworming.
If you are looking for a breeder to raise your puppy, there are many resources that can help you. . To find out if your vet has any suggestions, you can consult them. If you have a Greyhound that you love, dog shows can be a great way for information. It’s a great way to get in touch and connect with local dog lovers, which is always a bonus!
There are also forums, and social media sites that are full of enthusiastic people who will help you. Lastly, the AKC has put together this useful resource for breeder referrals, if you need more help. Since they are prized dogs, expect to pay $1,000 to $2,500 for a Greyhound puppy, with show-quality dogs costing more.
Rescues & Shelters
While it is always a good idea to go to a responsible breeder, we recommend that our readers adopt and NOT shop .. It is always a good idea to adopt from a shelter or rescue. It is possible to find a Greyhound that is purebred, despite Greyhound racing’s decline.
Many of the dogs available for adoption will be older or have special needs. These dogs are less likely to be adopted than other dogs, so we encourage you to give them a second chance at a happy and fulfilling life HTML1. These dogs make wonderful pets, especially if they are loved and cared for. There are 3.1 million dogs left in shelters each year, with many of them being euthanized. Adopting a dog can save a life.
When choosing a Greyhound to rescue you need to ask staff all the questions you have about them. You can give your dog the best possible life by learning everything you can about them. Knowing your dog’s needs will make it easier to care for them.
Always remember these sighthounds are sensitive, and even more so if they are from a shelter. Your furry friend will be your best friend. You can expect them to be afraid of their new environment and may act timidly around people and animals that they have to get to know. This time can be stressful so make sure you love your dog with all of your heart. They will soon adjust to their new homes if you treat them with kindness. Your Greyhound will be back to his/her special self sooner than you think.
There are many resources that can help you find a Greyhound rescue. These two great resources will help you bond with your new canine friend as quickly as possible.
As Family Pets
Greyhounds in general are:
- Long prized in history and served as pets of royalty and nobility all over the world. They make wonderful companions.
- Gentle, kind, and sensitive dogs who will do well in most family arrangements.
- Friendly, but should not be kept around smaller animals due to their high prey drive. These pets can be chased by them and cause harm.
- Highly affectionate, making them great for cuddles. If left alone, they can develop separation anxiety.
- Quiet and do not bark excessively.
- Happy in an apartment setting as long as they get their exercise.
- Low-energy and do not need much vigorous exercise. You can walk around your neighborhood every day.
- Tall and need their food and water bowls raised to accommodate their height.
- Short-haired and do not do well in cold weather, so be sure to keep them warm.
- Shedders but can be easily managed with daily brushing.
- Prone to poor dental health, so brush their teeth regularly.
Final Thoughts
While there will always be challenges when raising a dog, we think Greyhounds can be worth the effort. You will give your dog so much, it is vital that you show love and devotion to them to ensure they live a happy life. You will be able to enjoy every moment together.
These sighthounds are wonderful and loving canines that will make you feel like your best friend. The adventure you share with your dog can make a big difference in their happiness. This guide will help you to understand your dog’s needs and wants. You will quickly get to know your dog and how to make them happy. Your new Greyhound will soon be a part of your family.