Sweet and gentle, Greyhounds love two things: running and sleeping, and they’re equally good at both. These speed demons are surprisingly low-maintenance and make loving family members.
Personality and temperament
Meet both the fastest dog in the world and the one who loves napping the best. Calm and gentle, Greyhounds are not called ‘40kg couch potatoes’ for nothing. This elegant, quiet doggo is built for short bursts of speed but they love nothing more than dozing in the sun, on your bed, on the grass… well, anywhere really. But when their energetic, playful side shows itself, watch out for the zoomies (and get out of the way)! These beautiful dogs are sensitive souls, with a soft, sweet nature and they tend to bond deeply with their humans (especially children), and vice versa.
Size and appearance
Aerodynamic and athletic, Greyhounds are considered large dogs, some weighing up to 40kg! Their expressive eyes, which earn them lots of pats, can spot prey at a distance, while their long legs, deep chest, narrow waist and lean frame enable them to chase anything on two or four legs. Even their single layer of fur is sleek and fine and build for speed. This breed is a favourite in dog shows for its distinct ‘inverted S’ shape, and with artists throughout the centuries for its elegance.
History
Love a good story? Well, Greyhounds are believed to be one of the oldest dog breeds, dating back almost 8,000 years to the Middle East. Loved by Ancient Egyptians for its slick silhouette (they featured in many artworks from the time) and gentle nature, Greyhounds were probably also owned by the Romans and the Greeks. Their popularity spread throughout Europe in the 800s, and in Medieval England, owning a Greyhound was considered a status symbol – so much so that commoners (like you and I) were once forbidden from owning them. While they were used to hunt deer, hares and other fast-moving game in the 1600 and 1700s, it was in the 19th century when they were first used as racing dogs. They arrived in Australia and New Zealand with European settlement, and today many retired racing Greyhounds are adopted through rehoming programs, transitioning from track life to comfy couches.
Health conditions that can affect this breed
This athletic doggo prides itself on its racing-optimised body, however the breed can be prone to the following common health conditions:
- Dental disease (very common in ex-racing dogs)
- Arthritis
- Bloat (GDV)
- Heart conditions (including heart murmurs)
- Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid gland)
- Skin cuts and scrapes due to thin skin
- Anaesthetic sensitivity (they metabolise certain drugs differently)
- Heat and cold sensitivity
Regular vet check-ups and care can help manage these conditions and keep your Greyhound healthy.
Food and exercise
Greyhounds are naturally slim, and they thrive on a good quality, nutrient-dense diet. Former racing dogs may need extra digestive support during the transition to couch potatoes, as well as joint support. Ask your vet for advice.
Despite their label as ‘the fastest dog in the world’, these sweethearts have surprisingly low exercise needs. Just one or two 20-30-minute walks will keep them happy, plus the occasional sprint. Don’t be tempted to take your Greyhound on a long-distance run though, these speed missiles are not endurance dogs. They prefer sprints to marathons. And due to their ‘prey-drive’ it’s best to keep them on a lead, so they don’t look at unsuspecting small dogs or native animals as a chase-y toy.
Grooming and maintenance
With such a short coat, Greyhounds are quite low-maintenance doggos.
- Bathe: every 4-6 weeks or as needed
- Skin: check for nicks, scratches or irritations (they have delicate skin)
How to groom your Greyhound
- Fur: use a soft brush or grooming mitt to remove lose hair
- Nails: keep short to prevent injuries on hard surfaces
- Ears: clean weekly to remove wax and debris
- Eyes: wipe gently with a damp cloth if needed
Training and space requirements
Be warned, these gentle souls do have quite an independent streak so training with positive reinforcement works well. They are intelligent and willing, though, so most can be taught basic cues (like sit, stay, come), as well as loose-lead walking and polite house manners like greeting visitors. Former racing dogs may need more intense training with recall, settling indoors and getting used to things like stairs, glass doors and everyday household noises. Give them time, it’s all new to them.
Being a sprint master who loves napping, Greyhounds can live comfortably in small spaces if they have cosy places to curl up in and regular walks. While a backyard or outdoor area is a plus, it’s not a deal-breaker for them.
Best suited for…
Lean and athletic, Greyhounds are sweet-natured and gentle. They make calm and relaxing housemates for all humans who have the time to walk (and cuddle) them. As they’re pretty low-maintenance and they don’t need much grooming, they can be perfect for first-time dog owners looking for a constant companion. Don’t be put off by their size, these beauties are made up of pure love.
