GREYHOUND

Temperament: Gentle, Independent, Noble

AKC Breed Popularity: Ranks 145 of 197

Height: 28-30 inches (male), 27-28 inches (female)

Weight: 65-70 pounds (male), 60-65 pounds (female)

Life Expectancy: 10-13 years

Group: Hound Group

ABOUT THE GREYHOUND

Greyhounds were originally bred as hunting dogs to chase hare, foxes, and deer. Canines in this dog breed can reach speeds of 40 to 45 miles per hour, making them the Ferraris of the dog world.

Whether or not you’ve seen one in the flesh, you know what a Greyhound looks like. The iconic hound with the aerodynamic build epitomizes speed with his narrow head, long legs, and muscular rear end. We’ve all seen images of this sprinter, if only through seeing it plastered on the side of a bus, but many of us don’t truly know the breed.

Greyhounds have a reputation for high energy levels, but in reality their favorite pastime is sleeping. Designed as sprinters, not distance runners, they’ll be satisfied with a daily walk, although active people find they make good jogging or running partners. In fact, Greyhounds do fine in apartments or homes with small yards–although they need a solid fence to keep them from chasing animals they might see as prey, such as squirrels, rabbits, or trespassing cats.

PERSONALITY

Greyhounds generally have a wonderful temperament, being friendly and non-aggressive, although some can be aloof toward strangers. Give them a treat, though, and they’re likely to become a friend for life.

They’re intelligent and independent, even catlike in many ways. They do have a sensitive side and are quick to react to tensions in the home. They can become shy or timid with mistreatment, even if it’s unintentional.

NUTRITION

Feed the Greyhound a high-quality dog food appropriate to his age (puppy, adult, or senior). The breed typically requires somewhat higher calories and protein than some dogs. Learn about which human foods are safe for dogs, and which are not. Check with your vet if you have any concerns about your dog’s weight or diet.

HEALTH

Greyhounds are overall very healthy dogs, although there are a few conditions the breed can be prone to:

Anesthesia Sensitivity

Hypothyroidism

Osteosarcoma

Gastric Torsion

CARE

The Greyhound is the cheetah of the dog world. While perfectly happy to lounge around the house all day, he is capable of amazing speed and energy when faced with potential prey—or the chance to chase a tennis ball or a coursing lure. Greyhounds require a regular schedule of exercise time and opportunities to (safely) run full-out. They must only be allowed off leash in a securely fenced area, as they may not be able to resist the urge to run off in pursuit of perceived prey.

GROOMING

The Greyhound’s short, smooth coat requires little grooming beyond regular baths and weekly rubdowns with a damp cloth or hound glove. His strong, fast-growing nails should be trimmed regularly if not worn down naturally, as overly long nails can cause the dog discomfort. The ears should be checked at least weekly for any buildup of wax or debris that could result in an infection, and cleaned if needed. The teeth should be brushed regularly—daily if possible—with a toothpaste formulated for dogs.

Source: dogtime, akc.