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Greyhound

HEIGHT
25-30 inches
WEIGHT
60-80 pounds
LIFE SPAN
10-14 years
Information

The Greyhound is one of the oldest and fastest dog breeds in the world — built for sprinting at up to 70 km/h (45 mph). Originally bred for hunting and coursing game, it later became famous as a racing breed. But beneath the aerodynamic frame lies a surprisingly laid-back and affectionate companion.

Greyhounds are known as “45-mph couch potatoes” because while they love short bursts of running, they’re incredibly calm and lazy indoors. They are quiet, polite, and gentle — making them excellent for apartments, first-time dog owners, and families seeking a peaceful pet.

Most Greyhounds today are adopted from racetracks as adults, and they transition beautifully into home life with a little patience and love.

Quick facts
  • Origin: Middle East / Europe

  • Breed Group: Hound

  • Lifespan: 10–14 years

  • Size: 25–30 inches tall, 60–80 pounds

  • Coat Type: Short, smooth, low-shedding

  • Temperament: Gentle, quiet, affectionate, athletic

  • Exercise Needs: Moderate – daily walk + short sprint time

  • Training Needs: Independent thinker – keep it positive

  • Grooming Needs: Very low – minimal coat maintenance

  • Health: Prone to bloat, dental issues, thin skin, and anesthesia sensitivity

Overview

Despite their racing background, Greyhounds are not high-energy dogs. They prefer short walks, a fenced area to sprint in, and then hours of cozy napping. They are affectionate without being clingy, clean, and typically quiet around the house.

They're great with children and other dogs (especially fellow sighthounds), though care is needed with small pets due to a strong prey drive. Early socialization and patience are key when adopting a retired racer, as they’re adjusting from kennel to home life.

Greyhounds do best in calm environments, and their thin coats mean they’re sensitive to cold — they’ll need a doggy sweater in winter!

What to expect

Owning a dog is not just a privilege; it’s a responsibility. They depend on us for, at minimum, food and shelter, and deserve much more.

Health
Watch for bloat, anesthesia sensitivity, dental disease, and thin skin injuries. Many Greyhounds have low body fat, which affects medication dosages. Routine vet care and good dental hygiene are crucial.
Grooming
Extremely low-maintenance. Brush weekly with a soft mitt. Bathe occasionally. Trim nails regularly — Greyhounds often dislike overgrown nails due to their sensitive feet.
Exercise
Moderate. One or two short walks daily and occasional off-leash running in a secure area is ideal. They're built for speed, not endurance.
Training
Gentle, independent, and sometimes aloof. Use calm, reward-based training. Many respond well to routine and structure. May need extra work on recall due to prey drive.
Nutrition
Feed a balanced diet for lean, athletic dogs. Monitor weight — Greyhounds should have visible waist and tuck-up. Use slow-feeders to reduce risk of gulping and bloat.

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