On Greyhounds
GREYS AS PETS

Greyhounds are affectionate, friendly dogs who thrive on attention and human companionship and make terrific pets. Raised with their litter mates, where they competed for affection, Greyhounds love becoming the centre of attention as household pets. Greyhounds do not usually make good watch dogs - their friendly nature is not really very threatening. Expect a gentle, loving pet who, with a little time and patience, will be a great addition to your family. Because everything is brand new to the Greyhound, expect him/her to be somewhat confused and very curious. House manners have to be learned, but Greyhounds are very intelligent dogs and learn quickly.

They are good with children - more than most breeds. They are not as playful as puppies, of course, being mature dogs, but they are very tolerant of children and will usually walk away rather than growl or snap if children become overbearing. This is not to say that they can’t be tormented for long periods of time and still not growl or snap. Even a gentle Greyhound has its limits. Greyhounds are friendly by nature and socialize well as a result of encounters with other Greyhounds in the racing kennel. Cats are unknown to a Greyhound and a little extra time and care are required to make a happy home for all.

The retired racers are usually between two and four years old. These pure-bred athletes can enjoy many years of good health. With proper care, they have a life expectancy of 12 years or more.

Frequently an adopted Greyhound is completely housebroken right from the start. In their kennel environment they are “turned out” three or four times a day to relieve themselves. Therefore, racing Greyhounds are kennel-broken, which means they’re trained to go outside and keep their kennels clean. Walk them frequently at first, and they quickly learn that their new home is the place they keep clean and outside is where they go to relieve themselves.

A leash assures the Greyhound protection from disasters, such as barbed wire fencing, contact with wild animals, traps and poison. Greyhounds have no fear of cars and other hazards in our world and as history has proven, the Greyhound is an animal born to run. Greyhounds are accustomed to walking on a leash and enjoy the exercise, as well as the attention they receive from the people who pass by.

Because of their loving nature, Greyhounds are the pet of choice for an increasing number of people. Throughout history and today, Greyhounds have been pets of a number of prominent people, including Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, President Rutherford B. Hayes, General George Custer, President John Tyler, actress Bo Derek, ASPCA President Roger Caras and even 'The Simspons' creator, Matt Groening.

Click here if you are interested about adopting one of these wonderful dogs!

To go back to:

History of the Breed

About the Breed