Breed Spotlight: The Incredible Greyhound

The Greyhound is more than just the fastest dog breed in the world—this elegant and gentle hound is also a surprisingly calm and affectionate companion. Whether you’re a first-time dog owner or looking to adopt a retired racer, the Greyhound has plenty to offer.

Black and white Greyhound. Greyhound breed spotlight

Greyhound Appearance

Greyhounds have a distinctive, aerodynamic shape built for speed. With a slender body, deep chest, and long legs, they can reach up to 70 km/h in a sprint. Most Greyhounds weigh between 27 – 40 kg and stand around 71 – 75 cm tall.

Their short coat comes in a wide range of colours, including black, white, brindle, fawn, blue, and red. Despite their racing heritage, Greyhounds have a regal and almost cat-like elegance in the home.

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Greyhound Temperament

Known for their gentle and calm nature, Greyhounds are often described as couch potatoes. They love to lounge for most of the day and enjoy human company. While they’re friendly, they can be reserved with strangers and thrive in a quiet, predictable environment.

They are usually not barkers, making them ideal for urban or apartment living.

Black Greyhound. Greyhound breed spotlight

Exercise and Training Needs

Although they are built for speed, Greyhounds don’t require hours of exercise. A couple of short walks and an occasional sprint in a secure area is usually enough.

Greyhounds respond well to positive reinforcement training and are generally eager to please. Keep in mind that their prey drive can be strong, so off-leash time should always be in a secure space.

Are Greyhounds Good Family Pets?

Yes—Greyhounds can be excellent family dogs. They’re usually good with children and polite with guests. Many Greyhounds get along well with other dogs, especially if they’ve been socialised early.

However, because of their prey drive, care should be taken if introducing them to cats or small animals. Some can live peacefully with cats, but it depends on the individual dog.

Greyhound Health and Lifespan

Greyhounds are generally healthy dogs with fewer inherited health problems than some other breeds. Common issues to watch for include:

  • Bloat (gastric torsion)

  • Dental disease

  • Arthritis in older age

Their average lifespan is 10–14 years, and with proper care, many live well into their senior years.

Because of their low body fat, Greyhounds are sensitive to temperature extremes. In winter, they’ll need a coat or jersey to keep warm.

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White Greyhound. Greyhound breed spotlight

Adopting a Retired Racing Greyhound

Many Greyhounds in South Africa and around the world are retired racing dogs looking for loving homes. Adopting a retired Greyhound can be incredibly rewarding.

These dogs are usually already crate-trained and used to routine. They often adjust quickly to pet life with a little patience and a lot of love.

Is a Greyhound Right for You?

If you’re looking for a quiet, clean, low-maintenance companion, the Greyhound could be your perfect match. They thrive in calm households and enjoy daily walks, but won’t demand constant activity.

Whether you’re a family with older kids or a single adult in a flat, the Greyhound adapts well to many lifestyles. Just make sure they have a soft bed, a warm coat in winter, and plenty of love.

Greyhounds are one of the most misunderstood breeds—they may be built like athletes, but they’re soft, sweet souls at heart. If you’re considering adding a Greyhound to your home, you’ll be gaining a gentle and loving friend for life.

The post Breed Spotlight: The Incredible Greyhound first appeared on Pets24.



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