Greyhound
Description
The Greyhound is a swift as a ray of light and graceful as a swallow. Greyhound is one of the oldest and purest known breeds. The Greyhound has been used on practically all kinds of small game, but the hare is his natural quarry. Normally a quiet dog, he like to curl up on his dog bed and be lazy most of the day.
Size of Male: Height: 25-29 inches Weight: 65-85 pounds
Size of Female: Height: 26-30 inches Weight: 50-70 pounds
Temperament
Greyhounds are sensitive, sweet and elegant. Brave and loyal, the Greyhound can be willful at times. The Greyhound is very intelligent, but its character is often undervalued because of its reserved behavior toward its owner and toward strangers. Socialize them at an early age to prevent timidity. As a rule, they are gentle and even-tempered – both racing lines and show lines. Most Greyhounds have a definite prey instinct. It is instinctive for these dogs to chase anything that moves quickly. They are extremely fast and some will kill cats and other domestic animals, although this is not the majority (only about 20% of ex-racers are too “keen” on chasing prey to ever be safe with small animals). About 10% are immediately ok due to low prey instinct, and the rest can be trained to leave cats and other small pets in the home alone. They seldom present difficulties with other dogs and are normally good with children. Indoors, these dogs are calm and sociable to a point where they can even be considered lazy. They bond strongly with their own family, have tremendous stamina, and do not bark much. Greyhounds are not particularly vigilant. Show lines tend to be a bit heavier and bred more for temperament than racing lines, therefore dogs from show lines often make better pets, but racing lines can also make wonderful pets. Ex-racing Greyhounds are not usually difficult to housebreak. They are already crate trained from the track, so it doesn’t take them long to learn that they are not to run around in the house.
Living Conditions
The Greyhound will do ok in an apartment if he gets enough exercise. Greyhounds are relatively inactive indoors and a small yard will do. Greyhounds are sensitive to the cold but do well in cold climates as long as they wear a coat outside. Do ensure they have enough exercise so that they will stay physically and mentally healthy.
Upkeep
The Greyhound needs daily exercise, but it is a sprinter, not an endurance runner. Greyhound’s needs can thus be met with a chance to run, or by a longer walk on leash. Greyhound love to run and chase outdoors, and can easily run into danger at great speeds unless exercised in a safe area. It is not generally amenable to living outdoors. Greyhounds needs comfort and must have soft bedding and warmth. The coat is extremely easy to care for, needing only occasional brushing to remove dead hair.
Health
Major concerns: none
Minor concerns: esophageal achalasia, gastric torsion, osteosarcoma