Greyhound

• The Greyhound dog breed is an easily recognizable breed, distinct for its sleek, contoured build, deep chest, and curved, flexible spine - these dogs are built for speed.

• Greyhounds have a long head, small ears, a graceful neck, and dark eyes. The back legs are muscular and very powerful, and the front legs are completely straight.

• The smooth, short coat comes in many colors.

———————— Temperament ————————

• Greyhounds are sweet, elegant, loyal, brave, and sensitive dogs. They are very intelligent, but tend to be reserved both with their families and with strangers. These dogs need to be well-socialized from a very young age to avoid timidity.

• Dogs tend to have a strong prey instinct, and they are likely to chase anything that moves too quickly - they should not be left around cats or other small pets unless they've been well-trained and socialized. Although they're not fond of rough-housing, these dogs are good with other dogs and children.

• Greyhounds form strong bonds with their families. They are sociable and calm indoors.

———————— Height and Weight ————————

• Adult males tend to be 28-30 inches tall and weigh around 65-70 pounds.

• Adult females are generally 27-28 inches tall and weigh about 60-65 pounds.

———————— Living Conditions and Exercise ————————

• The Greyhound dog breed does well in an apartment setting as long as they receive sufficient exercise. They are not suited to cold-weather and may need to wear a coat outdoors.

• This breed is generally inactive indoors, but need time to run free in a safe area outside.

• To stay healthy, these dogs need a daily long walk. The owner should always lead on these walks, making the dog walk beside or behind them. Regular routines are important to these dogs.

———————— Life Expectancy ————————

• Well-cared for dogs can be expected to live 10-12 years.

———————— Grooming ————————

• The easy-to-care-for coat requires occasional combing and brushing. Use a brush with firm bristles. Dry shampoo only as necessary.

• They are average shedders.

———————— History ————————

• The Greyhound dog breed is the fastest breed in the world. It is an ancient breed; most likely they are descendents of the Arabian Sloughi brought by traders to England before 900 AD. These dogs were used to hunt deer and wild boar, catching their prey and pulling them down without stopping.

• Greyhounds were the enemy of most domestic animals - including geese and cats. Now, they are mostly used for dog racing in Anglo-Saxon countries.

• Sadly, once their racing careers are over, many of the dogs are destroyed. Greyhound Rescue groups operate all over the U.S. and other countries to place the most even-tempered racers with families.

———————— Group and Recognition ————————

• Grouping: Southern, AKC Hound

• Recognition: CKC, ACR, NKC, APRI, FCI, KCGB, AKC, UKC, ANKC, NZKC

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