The Greyhound

The Greyhound was primarily bred for the purposes of coursing game and racing. The Greyhound can reach speeds of up to 45 mph in less than one and a half seconds or within 3 strides due to its long powerful legs, deep chest and aerodynamic build.

Modern Greyhound racing was introduced during the early 1920s into the United States of America, and later introduced to the United Kingdom and Ireland in 1926. The Greyhound holds the record for the fastest recorded dog, even though some experts believe that the Saluki may still be faster.

Male greyhounds have an average height of 28 to 30 inches at the withers, and the weight of males is between 27 and 40 kg.  The average height for females is 27 to 28 inches at the withers and their weight is between 27 and 34 kg. Greyhounds have short hair, which makes them simple to maintain. This breed also has approximately thirty different color variations of black, blue (gray), brindle, fawn, red, and white, which can appear uniquely or in combination.

Even though Greyhounds are exceptionally fast and athletic, they are not in actual fact high-energy dogs. They are actually sprinters, and even though they do enjoy running, they do not require a great deal of exercise or many walks on their unique dog leashes. A majority of Greyhounds are quiet, placid, and gentle animals. When a greyhound reaches adulthood, it will be happy with a 20 to 30 minute walk on a daily basis.

Greyhounds are pack orientated, and will quickly adopt humans into its pack as alpha. They get along wonderfully with children and other family pets. Greyhounds, especially rescued or re-homed dogs, can suffer with separation anxiety, when they are left alone for a period of time. The addition of a second greyhound will very often solve the problem.

This breed very rarely barks, which is ideal in suburban environments, and they are typically friendly towards strangers. It has been said that Greyhounds are hyperactive. However, in retired racing Greyhounds, it is generally the opposite and like to lay on their orthopedic dog beds. However, young Greyhounds that have never been taught how to use their energy cab be hyperactive and destructive, if they are not given an outlet.  A more experienced handler is required for younger Greyhounds.

Because this breed does not have an undercoat, they are less likely to trigger allergies in those people that experience dog allergies. It is also a fact that because Greyhounds do not have an undercoat, along with them not having a great deal of body fat, they are more susceptible to extreme temperatures, both hot and cold. It is highly recommended that Greyhounds be housed indoors.

It is believed by many people that this breed requires a large living space. However, Greyhounds can thrive in small spaces. Because Greyhounds have a laid back temperament, they make better apartment dogs than some of the smaller breeds that are hyperactive.

Because Greyhounds are typically a healthy and long-lived breed, they very rarely have hereditary illnesses. However, some Greyhounds have been known to develop bloat, esophageal achalasia, and osteosarcoma.

Because of a Greyhounds lean physique, it is not advised that they sleep on the floor. Owners of Greyhounds should provide soft bedding, as this breed can develop skin sores without something soft to sleep on.

 Greyhounds have a typical lifespan of 10 and 13 years.