A Greyhound rests in the grass.

Greyhound

Height
27 - 30"
Weight
60 - 70 lbs
Type
Hound
Life Expectancy
10 - 12 years
Area of Origin
Egypt
The Greyhound is a wise and affectionate sighthound with an athletic physique that is truly built for speed. Depictions of Greyhounds were first seen in Egyptian tomb carvings, many created over 5,000 years ago. They were a symbol of nobility and used to hunt various sizes of game, ranging from rabbits to deer. Their swiftness is unmatched by any other breed of dog, which is why they are most recognized for their participation in the highly controversial sport of dog racing. They are also reportedly capable of jumping nearly 30 feet in the air. As is true with hounds, they are a pack animal and prefer being around other dogs. They are gentle, sweet, and independent, making them good with children as long as they have a quiet place of their own to relax. With early obedience training, they can also adapt to living with cats and small dogs. Their lean body and short hair coat make them intolerant of cold climates and they require a coat or sweater to keep warm on cool days. Running and chasing is their primary passion, making a human with the same enthusiasm for athletics ideal. It is also best if they have a fenced in yard to run around in, and they should always be kept on a leash when outside.
Energy Level
4
Playfulness
4
Friendliness to dogs
4
Friendliness to strangers
3
exercise requirements
4
affection level
4
friendliness to other pets
4
watchfulness
3
Grooming Requirements
2
Vocality
3

Where Are Greyhounds From?

The Greyhound has been traced back to Ancient Egypt, based on artistic depictions found in 5,000-year-old tomb carvings from the region. Centuries later, they were used for hunting game by the Romans and Greeks. During the Elizabethan Era, sporting events were held to test their speed against other dogs and rabbits.

The breed was imported to the U.S. by Europeans in the 1700s and continued to prove themselves as exceptional game hunters. In the early 1920s, the mechanical lure was invented, making way for the controversial sport of dog racing. Greyhounds were the primary dog used in these competitions, since they can reach speeds of 45 mph and are excellent at spotting small objects. Most Greyhounds found in the U.S. today can be traced back to European imports from the early 1900s. They continue to gain popularity because of their gentle disposition and incredible athletic abilities.

Caring for a Greyhound

What Kind of Diet Does a Greyhound Need?

What Kind of Diet Does a Greyhound Need?

Greyhounds need to be fed a high-quality, age-appropriate diet. They are meant to be lean and muscular, so overfeeding should be avoided.

How Much Grooming Does a Greyhound Need?

How Much Grooming Does a Greyhound Need?

Their short hair coat requires minimal grooming, needing only weekly brushing with a soft-bristled brush or hand glove. They require bathing as needed.

Are Greyhounds Healthy Dogs?

Are Greyhounds Healthy Dogs?

Greyhounds are deep-chested, making them prone to gastric dilatation volvulus. This occurs when the stomach fills with air and twists in on itself, resulting in a life-threatening emergency.

They are also prone to a few bleeding disorders, one of which is von Willebrand Disease. This is a deficiency of the von Willebrand factor, a blood glycoprotein that is essential in clot formation.

Greyhounds are predisposed to: gastric dilatation volvulus, hip dysplasia, fractures, von Willebrand’s Disease, pannus, lens luxation, hypertension, thrombocytopenia, hemophilia, lacerations, lameness, arthritis, and dystocia.

How Much Training Does a Greyhound Need?

How Much Training Does a Greyhound Need?

Greyhounds require early socialization and obedience training, especially before introducing them to small animals or children given their chasing instincts.

They are independent and sensitive and prefer short training sessions. The breed responds best to positive reinforcement methods, and can be standoffish, despite their friendliness to strangers and devotion to family.

How Much Exercise Do Greyhounds Need?

How Much Exercise Do Greyhounds Need?

The breed requires daily exercise, and may require the opportunity to run at full speed. However, they must only be allowed off leash in a fenced-in area. Greyhounds will chase anything if given the opportunity, and their swiftness will make catching them in an open area nearly impossible.

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Are You Ready to Adopt a Greyhound?

To adopt a Greyhound, start by making sure a dog of this size and demeanor will fit your lifestyle. Use our pet adoption checklist to walk through each step in the adoption process. Complete the necessary adoption applications and be prepared for interviews or home visits. Spend time with potential dogs to find a good match. Finally, prepare your home for the new pet, ensuring it's safe and welcoming.

Pet Insurance Options for Greyhounds

Pet insurance for a Greyhound may help cover costs for conditions like hip dysplasia and bone fractures. Consider a policy that includes hereditary and congenital conditions, flexible coverage options, and reasonable premiums.

Use our insurance aggregator tool to compare providers and find the best plan for your dog's unique needs.

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What Are the Physical Characteristics of a Greyhound?

How Big Are Greyhounds?
Greyhounds are large, lean, and well-muscled dogs that weigh 60 to 70 pounds and are 27 to 30″ tall.
The Greyhound Look
Their head is snake-like in appearance, boasting a long and narrow muzzle with strong teeth and folded ears.
The Greyhound Body
Greyhounds have strong and wide backs with well-tucked abdomens. Their shoulders are oblique and chest is deep and wide.
Do Greyhounds Have Long Tails?
Yes, their tails are long and tapered toward the end with a slight curl upward.
Greyhound Front Legs
The forelimbs are parallel and straight. Legs are long, yet sturdy. Feet are hare-like with solid claws.
What Color Coat Does a Greyhound Have?
The color options for Greyhounds are virtually limitless, including black, white, red, and a variety of combinations of those hues.
Greyhound Back Legs
The hind legs are long with substantial, well-defined muscles.
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Greyhound Facts

The Greyhound is the fastest dog breed, and is commonly known as the "cheetah of the dog world." They can reach speeds of 45 mph.
Ownership of a Greyhound by common folk was outlawed by English nobles in 1016.
The breed was depicted in Edward of Norwich's The Master of Game, a medieval book on hunting.
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Other Breeds to Explore

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Azawakh
Catahoula Leopard Dog
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References

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