This breed isn’t always fast and furious. Greyhounds love nothing more than a relaxing afternoon snuggled on the couch.
Greyhounds are irony personified. While they epitomise speed and are known for their high-energy and sprinting abilities, they are also a laid-back, quiet and charming couch potato at heart. Loving and gentle, they are usually friendly with strangers (trespassers will most likely be ignored). However, they will alert you by letting out a small bark or perking up their ears upon hearing approaching sounds. Greyhounds are not known for barking.
Loyal to their owner, they love being around people, even children, provided the child’s favourite game is ‘reading a book while I pat you’ and not ‘tumbling on and off the lounge’. Greyhounds suffer from separation anxiety if kept alone for long hours. They do have a strong hunting instinct, and tend to chase smaller animals. Bring out the Dalai Lama in you while training them – they are sensitive and respond best to kind and calm commands. They are easy to train, especially retired racing hounds. Socialise them well and early to prevent shyness.
Fun fact: Greyhounds are adept at seeing moving objects,
but have serious trouble seeing still objects.
Their large, regal size notwithstanding, Greyhounds make good apartment dwellers with their calm disposition and ability to sleep for over half the day. They love a daily walk or a fenced yard to run in and for the sake of other animals, be sure to keep your buddy on a leash when out and about. Greyhounds don’t like to sit as they’re so bony it can become uncomfortable. They also don’t do well in cold environments.
Grooming their smooth, short-haired coat (which comes in more colours than the common grey) is as easy. Brush and comb daily, and dry shampoo when necessary. Greyhounds don’t shed. Trim their nails regularly and with care, as well as cleaning their ears carefully. Do not insert anything into their ear canal. Greyhounds suffer from poor dental health, so regular brushing is a must.
Scheduled six monthly health check visits with your vet are important to ensure that your dog is healthy and happy throughout all life stages. The natural stature of a Greyhound and their explosive physical abilities means that they are susceptible to injuries, especially bone problems. Their teeth also need to be cared for. Together with your vet, you can determine and maintain a preventative health care program based on the individual needs of your canine companion.
Size
A Greyhound is a large-sized breed weighing between 27-32kgs, with a height between 68-76cms.
Space
They can adapt to most spaces and suit both small and large dwellings.
Energy Levels
They have bundles of energy but are also a couch potato. Daily walks and some games are ideal for keeping this breed fit. Always keep your Greyhound on a leash when you are out and about.
Difficulty of Training
They are intelligent and easy to train.
Family Suitability
They are great family pets and loyal companions.
Compatibility with other Pets
They love to meet new friends.
Need for Company
They have a moderate to high need for company and enjoy spending time with their family.
Hypoallergenic Dog Breed?
No
Coat and Grooming Needs
Greyhounds are low-maintenance. Simply wipe their coat down weekly. They have a short smooth coat in black, white, red, blue, fawn, fallow, brindle, or any of these colours mixed with white.
Shedding
They don’t shed.
Tendency to Bark
They have a low tendency to bark, so don’t expect frequent conversations.