Greyhound

History & Origin

The Greyhound is one of the oldest known dog breeds, with roots tracing back over 4,000 years to ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia. Revered for their speed and hunting ability, sighthounds resembling Greyhounds were depicted in ancient art and prized by nobility.

Brought to Britain by traders and invaders, the Greyhound was refined into its modern form. By the Middle Ages, it became a symbol of nobility, valued for coursing deer and hare. In the 18th and 19th centuries, coursing events and later racing solidified the Greyhound’s place as both a working and sporting dog.

Today, while racing remains part of its heritage, many retired Greyhounds find loving homes as gentle, laid-back companions.

What Were They Bred to Do?

Greyhounds are sighthounds—bred to hunt using their keen vision and speed rather than scent. Their role was to pursue fast game like hare, deer, and antelope. This strong prey drive remains today, meaning recall training can be challenging if small animals are nearby.

Appearance & Breed Standard

Greyhounds are tall, slim, and athletic with an unmistakably elegant silhouette. They have a long, narrow head, deep chest, tucked abdomen, and long legs built for speed. Their coat is short and fine, coming in many colours, including solid shades and brindles.

Their gait is effortless and smooth, showcasing their athleticism.

Temperament & Living with a Greyhound

Despite their racing heritage, Greyhounds are gentle, calm, and affectionate. They are often described as “couch potatoes” because they enjoy lounging for most of the day.

They are friendly with people, including children, and can adapt well to living in flats as long as their exercise needs are met. However, their prey drive means they may not always be reliable off-lead and may not live peacefully with cats or small animals unless carefully socialised.

Exercise & Mental Stimulation

Greyhounds need around 1 hour of daily exercise. This should include walks and opportunities for short bursts of running in secure areas. They are sprinters, not endurance dogs, and are content with moderate activity.

Mental enrichment—such as puzzle toys, training sessions, or scent games—helps keep them engaged.

Training & Socialisation

Greyhounds are intelligent but can be independent. Positive reinforcement and patience are essential. Retired racers may need extra socialisation to adjust to life in a home environment, including exposure to stairs, glass doors, and household noises.

Recall training can be challenging due to their prey drive, so many owners exercise them on leads or in secure fields.

Grooming & Shedding

Greyhounds are low-maintenance:

• Weekly brushing is usually sufficient.

• They shed lightly year-round.

• Their thin skin and low body fat make them prone to cuts and chills, so many need coats in cold weather.

• Regular dental care and nail trimming are important.

Health & Longevity (non-diagnostic)

Greyhounds typically live 10–14 years.

Common health concerns include:

• Bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus)

• Osteosarcoma (bone cancer)

• Hypothyroidism

• Dental issues (common in ex-racers)

• Sensitivity to anaesthesia due to low body fat

Overall, they are a relatively healthy breed when responsibly bred and cared for.

Feeding & Care Basics

Greyhounds do best on a balanced diet tailored to their lean physique. Many ex-racers require a gradual transition to pet diets, as they may have been fed differently during racing careers. Dividing meals into two daily portions helps prevent bloat.

Ethical Sourcing & Adoption (UK)

Many Greyhounds available in the UK come from rescue organisations specialising in rehoming ex-racing dogs. They make wonderful companions once retired from the track. Prospective owners should ask about health checks, temperament assessments, and support for transitioning to home life.

Legal Note (UK)

Greyhounds are not on the UK banned breeds list. However, under some local by-laws, ex-racing Greyhounds may be required to wear a muzzle in public. Always check local regulations.

Is the Greyhound Right for You?

Best for:

• Owners seeking a gentle, affectionate companion

• Families or singles in flats or houses

• People who want a low-grooming, low-barking dog

Think twice if:

• You want a dog with strong off-lead recall

• You cannot provide a safe, enclosed space for running

• You prefer a breed without prey drive

FAQs

1. Do Greyhounds need lots of exercise?
   No, they need around 1 hour daily and enjoy short sprints. They are sprinters, not endurance dogs.

2. Are Greyhounds good in flats?
   Yes, they adapt well to flat living as long as they get daily walks and occasional runs.

3. Do Greyhounds bark a lot?
   No, they are generally quiet dogs.

4. Are Greyhounds good with children?
   Yes, they are gentle and affectionate, but supervision is recommended with young kids due to their size.

5. Do Greyhounds get along with cats?
   Some can, but many have high prey drives. Careful introductions and training are essential.

6. Why do Greyhounds wear coats?
   They have little body fat and thin coats, making them prone to feeling cold.