Greyhounds: The World's Fastest Dog Breed

What is a Greyhound?

Greyhounds are tall, slender dogs built for speed. They are sighthounds, meaning they hunt primarily by sight rather than scent. With their aerodynamic bodies, long legs, and deep chests, Greyhounds are perfectly designed for coursing and racing.

Despite their ancient hunting heritage, modern Greyhounds are gentle, quiet dogs known for their calm demeanor. They're often called "45 mph couch potatoes" because despite their incredible speed, they prefer lounging around the house when not exercising.

Greyhound Characteristics

• Size: large (60-70 lbs, 26-30 inches tall)
• Lifespan: 10-14 years
• Temperament: Gentle, Quiet, Independent, Affectionate
• Coat: short coat in colors including Black, Brindle, Fawn, Blue, White
• Energy Level: Surprisingly low - Greyhounds enjoy short bursts of exercise followed by rest

The Greyhound Personality

Greyhounds have gentle, quiet, and independent personalities. Despite their large size, they're known for being sweet, affectionate, and relatively low-maintenance pets. They form strong bonds with their families but also appreciate their independence.

One of the most surprising things about Greyhounds is their energy level. While they can reach incredible speeds when running, they prefer to spend most of their time resting. Surprisingly low energy. Short bursts of exercise followed by long naps. This makes them excellent apartment dogs, contrary to what many people expect.

Greyhounds are typically good with older children but should be supervised around small children due to their size. They're generally friendly with other dogs, especially other Greyhounds, though their strong prey drive means they should be carefully introduced to small pets.

Caring for Greyhounds

History & Origins

One of the oldest dog breeds, dating back to ancient Egypt. Bred for coursing and racing.

Adopting a Retired Racing Greyhound

One of the best ways to add a Greyhound to your family is through adoption. Many retired racing Greyhounds are available for adoption through Greyhound-specific rescue organizations. These dogs are typically:

• Between 2-5 years old when they retire from racing
• Already crate-trained and housebroken
• Socialized and used to routine
• Vetted and spayed/neutered
• Looking for a loving forever home

Adopting a retired racing Greyhound not only gives you a wonderful pet but also helps these deserving dogs find the loving homes they deserve after their racing careers end.

Is a Greyhound Right for You?

Greyhounds are excellent pets for many people, including:

• Apartment dwellers (surprisingly, Greyhounds adapt well to apartment living)
• People looking for a calm, quiet companion
• Those who appreciate a low-maintenance dog
• Families with older children
• People who can provide a safely fenced area for occasional running

Greyhounds may not be ideal for homes with small pets due to their strong prey drive, or for people who want a highly active, high-energy dog. However, for the right family, Greyhounds make gentle, loving, and surprisingly easygoing companions.