When deciding to get a dog or puppy, finding a breed that’s a good fit for your lifestyle can seem overwhelming. With so many options, how do you know which one is right for you and your family?
If you’re interested in a sensitive, yet spirited companion, consider the Greyhound. One of the oldest breeds of dogs, the Greyhound is often described as being gentle and sweet in nature. Known as the cheetah of the dog world, this breed is capable of reaching speeds up to 40 miles per hour but is also happy to lounge around the house with their family.
The Greyhound’s Temperament
While they have an independent spirit, Greyhounds are mild and sensitive dogs. Although they may not follow you around the house or show interest in climbing up in your lap, they can spend a lot of time sitting around or napping.
Greyhounds are capable of great athleticism, though you’ll more often find them lounging around the house, saving up their energy for their next run. When presented with opportunities to safely run, such as in a fenced backyard, they have an incredible prey drive and can reach amazing speeds.
Physical Traits and Grooming Needs
Like many sighthounds, Greyhounds are tall and sleek dogs with little body fat. Their short, smooth coats come in a variety of colors, including black, red, white, and blue, and require minimal grooming beyond regular baths and weekly brushings.
Typically, males weigh about 65–70 pounds with a height of 28–30 inches, while females weigh about 60–65 pounds with a height of 27–28 inches.
How Much Training Do Greyhounds Need?
While many dogs were originally bred to chase down prey, as a sighthound, the Greyhound is a unique hunter. Sighthounds were developed to pursue game by sight, rather than scent, and work independently of their human companions. This independent nature can present some training challenges, especially since they can become bored easily. When training a Greyhound, be sure to keep training sessions short and provide plenty of positive reinforcement.
With their extraordinary speed and endurance, Greyhounds are a great fit for dog sports such as lure coursing, AKC Rally, and agility.
Are Greyhounds Good for Families?
Greyhounds are very affectionate with their families, though they tend to be reserved with strangers. If you have small children or other pets, early socialization is key. Greyhounds have very little fat to protect them, so you’ll need be sure to supervise all interactions to ensure their safety.
How Social Are Greyhounds?
When they’re not chasing after game, Greyhounds can be a very charming and gentle breed. When socialized from an early age with people and other animals, Greyhounds can be social and adaptable dogs, though they tend to be cautious around strangers.
Remember: every dog has their own individual personalities, even within the same breed. Before deciding to bring home a Greyhound, be sure to talk to people you trust, such as your breeder, about whether they would be a good fit for you and your lifestyle. Also, consider reaching out to people who already own the breed if you have questions about what to expect when living with a Greyhound.