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Greyhound: Breed Facts, Experience and Tips from 9K+ Owners

Greyhound: Breed Facts, Experience and Tips from 9K+ Owners

Sam Tetrault

February 05, 2025

Dog Breeds

Greyhound: Breed Facts, Experience and Tips from 9K+ Owners thumbnail

Discover the Greyhound, a breed celebrated for its friendly, affectionate, and adaptable nature. Known for their elegant appearance and gentle disposition, Greyhounds have captured the hearts of dog lovers worldwide.

In this post, we share insights from Sniffspot users, offering practical advice for new and prospective Greyhound owners. Whether you're considering the Greyhound adoption process of this AKC breed or you're interested in learning more about your current companion, discover why beautiful greyhounds are a rising breed in the USA and beyond.

About the greyhound - sniffspot breed survey Source: Sniffspot Breed Survey 2024

Greyhound Quick Characteristics

Breed Type: Sighthound

Size: Large

Life Expectancy: 10-13 years

Healthy Weight Range: 60-70 lbs (females), 65-85 lbs (males)

Height Range: 27-30 inches (males), 25-28 inches (females)

Temperament: Friendly, Affectionate, Adaptable

Coat Type: Short, smooth

Color: Various including fawn, black, white, blue, red, and brindle

About the Greyhound

According to our Sniffspot community survey, Greyhounds are notably friendly and affectionate dogs. The data reveals that these elegant canines are particularly adaptable (39.39% of owners) and curious (69.70% of owners). Their friendly nature (63.64% of owners) makes them excellent companions, while their affectionate temperament (51.52% of owners) ensures they form strong bonds with their families.

One of the AKC breeds, this dog is known as one of the fastest breeds. Mostly known for Greyhound racing, this quick-moving dog is quickly becoming a beloved family pet.

When living with a Greyhound, 78.79% of our owners indicated that a large house with a fenced yard is ideal. Interestingly, 45.45% of owners found that apartments or condominiums with regular walks are also suitable, making Greyhounds more versatile in terms of living situations than many might expect.

History and Origin of the Greyhound

The Greyhound's history spans thousands of years, with evidence of the breed appearing in ancient Egyptian art and Middle Eastern artifacts. Originally bred for coursing game on open terrain using their exceptional speed and keen eyesight, Greyhounds are considered one of the oldest dog breeds in existence.

In more recent history, Greyhounds became known for their racing abilities, though today many are retired racers who transition into loving family pets. This racing heritage has contributed to their athletic build and gentle temperament, as they needed to be both fast on the track and manageable in close quarters with handlers and other dogs. One of the fastest breeds, Greyhounds have relatively low energy levels compared to breeds of similar size.

Greyhound on deck
Derek Story on Unsplash

Greyhound Traits and Characteristics

Temperament: Friendly, Affectionate, Adaptable

Energy Level: Low to Moderate

Trainability: Moderately trainable - Learns commands with consistent training and practice

Grooming needs: Low maintenance - Requires minimal grooming

Good with Kids: Very friendly and social with children

Good with Strangers: Very friendly and social with strangers

Good with Other Dogs: Cautious around new dogs

What to Expect as a Greyhound Owner

What to expect from a greyhound as a pet Source: Sniffspot Breed Survey 2024

Grooming Needs

One of the most appealing aspects of Greyhound ownership is their minimal grooming requirements. An overwhelming 93.94% of our survey respondents categorized Greyhounds as "low maintenance" in terms of coat grooming.

Their short, smooth coat requires only occasional brushing and baths to maintain its healthy appearance. This makes them an excellent choice for owners who prefer a dog that doesn't need frequent professional grooming services. Their naturally clean nature means they typically don't develop strong "dog odor," and regular basic coat grooming maintenance is sufficient to keep them looking and feeling their best.

Exercise Needs

Despite their racing background and reputation for speed, Greyhounds are not high-energy dogs requiring constant exercise. Our survey revealed that 45.45% of owners report their Greyhounds need only low exercise (30 minutes to 1 hour daily), while 42.42% indicate moderate exercise needs (1-2 hours daily).

These dogs are known for their "40-to-zero" personality - capable of great speed but equally content being couch potatoes. They particularly enjoy activities like playing with squeaky toys (60.61% of owners report this as a favorite activity), running or jogging (36.36%), and hiking (36.36%). Many owners find that a combination of daily walks and occasional opportunities to run in a secure area perfectly satisfies their Greyhound's exercise requirements.

Diet and Nutrition

When it comes to feeding your Greyhound, our survey shows that most owners opt for a straightforward approach. The majority (57.58%) feed commercial dry kibble as their primary diet choice, while 42.42% prefer a mixed diet approach incorporating various food types. Commercial wet food is included by 21.21% of owners in their dogs' diets.

Given their large size and unique metabolism from their racing heritage, proper portion control and high-quality nutrition are essential. Many owners find that dividing daily meals into two portions helps maintain stable energy levels and reduces the risk of digestive issues.

Health Concerns

Our survey data reveals several key health considerations that Greyhound owners should monitor. Dental problems are the most prevalent issue, with 60.61% of owners reporting dental concerns that require regular attention and professional care.

Digestive issues follow as the second most common health concern, affecting 51.52% of Greyhounds in our survey. These can range from sensitive stomachs to more serious conditions requiring careful dietary management. Skin conditions affect 24.24% of the breed, largely due to their thin, sensitive skin that requires protection from extreme temperatures and rough surfaces.

Regular veterinary check-ups with professionals familiar with sighthound physiology are essential, as Greyhounds have unique health characteristics that can affect everything from their blood work values to their reaction to certain medications.

How Friendly Are Greyhounds?

Our survey data shows that Greyhounds are exceptionally social creatures:

How friendly are greyhounds? Source: Sniffspot Breed Survey 2024

How to Train Your Greyhound

Training success with Greyhounds relies heavily on positive methods:

Positive Reinforcement (90.91%): Treats, praise, rewards

Consistent daily training routines (39.39%): Consistent daily schedules and activity levels

Socialization (33.33%): Socialization with other dogs and people

Is a Greyhound Right for a First-Time Dog Owner?

According to our survey, 78.79% of Greyhound owners would recommend the breed to first-time dog owners. This high recommendation rate stems from their gentle nature, adaptability, and relatively easy care requirements.

Sniffspot breed survey - are greyhounds right for first-time owners Source: Sniffspot Breed Survey 2024

What Do Owners Love About Greyhounds?

We asked Sniffspot Greyhound owners what they love most about their dogs, and here's what they had to say:

"Greyhounds can be very graceful but also very goofy. Some people say they're like big house cats, and that is very true!" (Lauren)

"They have total minds of their own and they communicate so loudly with their attitudes alone. Plus greyhounds just feel like peaceful souls to me!" (Kayleigh)

"Their calm gentle natures and their lower energy needs along with little grooming for their coat type. They are also very quiet." (Leila)

"Calm gentle sweet affectionate, low maintenance, doesn't bark slobber or shed, runs only about once a week for 20 minutes, otherwise just walks." (Cg)

What Are the Biggest Challenges for Greyhound Owners?

Similarly, Greyhound owners shared some of the biggest challenges of living with their dogs:

"Most greyhounds are adopted as retired racing dogs. They don't know how to walk up stairs, play with toys. They've never had much all to themselves and adapting to being a home companion can be difficult sometimes. They're still worth the adoption fee and then some!" (E)

"They're thin-skinned, so we can't take them to the dog park since even a friendly nip could cause serious damage!" (Jen)

"Digestive issues (including room clearing gas) and finding proper, qualified vets as they need different anesthesia and other accommodations that not all vets are able to fill." (Brandy)

"They must be contained in an area. They run very fast." (MB)

Advice for Greyhound Owners

Our Sniffspot community shared valuable advice for prospective or new Greyhound owners:

Get proper support and education

"Get involved with a greyhound adoption group for the AKC breed. They'll help you figure out if greyhounds are right for you, and will also provide a lot of support once you do adopt!" (Jen)

"They can have a high prey drive, but if you train them well then it isn't a problem on leash. If you get them off the track then they need you to give them patience and respect their boundaries while they adjust to how different life in a house is. You definitely have to learn about their uniqueness when it comes to their health(bloodwork and anatomy)." (GS)

Understand their unique nature

"Read up. The sighthound family is different from what you think of when someone says, 'dog'. Not in a bad way, mind you, but you'll be disappointed if you're expecting Lassie." (P)

"More like a cat personality than a dog--perfect for people in apartments who want a low energy and independent companion, not ideal for someone looking for a running/hiking buddy, a high-energy playmate, or a real 'dog's dog'" (Anonymous)

"These dogs have a high level of tolerance for different lifestyles. But still make sure you read different adoption guides before you commit to this unique dog!" (Cara)

Focus on positive training

"Positive reinforcement is the best way to go, they learn to trust and become very loyal. These dogs don't take well to having their trust broken with negative treatment." (Kayleigh)

"Train them while they're super young. Be cautious letting them play with dogs more than 20 lbs because they are prone to leg breaks. Be very patient and provide lots of positive reinforcement, especially when it comes to potty training." (Ebby B)

Consider their special needs

"Greyhounds are clean, quiet, and gentle dogs. They should be kept on leash outside of a fenced area because they are fast sight hounds. Be mindful of letting your hound get plenty of rest and not disturbing them while they are sleeping." (Leila)

"They are definitely indoor dogs, love to please, sensitive and need to be fenced in if outdoors. They have a low level of tolerance for injuries and rough play." (Jennifer)

Frequently Asked Questions about Greyhounds

How much grooming does a Greyhound need?

Greyhounds are very low-maintenance dogs, with 93.94% of owners reporting minimal grooming needs. Their short coat requires only weekly brushing and occasional baths.

Unlike many other breeds, they don't need professional grooming services and are known for being naturally clean dogs with minimal "dog odor." Most owners find that a simple weekly brushing routine and monthly bath is sufficient to keep their Greyhound's coat healthy and looking its best.

How much exercise does a Greyhound need?

Despite their racing background, 45.45% of Greyhounds are satisfied with low exercise (30 minutes to 1 hour daily), while 42.42% prefer moderate exercise (1-2 hours).

As Laura notes, "They MUST have an hour a day to run free, at least while they're young." However, once exercised, they're known to be "couch potatoes." Many owners find that a combination of daily walks and occasional opportunities to run in a secure, fenced area meets their Greyhound's exercise needs perfectly.

What living situation is best for a Greyhound?

A significant majority (78.79%) of owners recommend a large house with a fenced yard, though 45.45% say apartments or condominiums with regular walks can also work well for Greyhounds.

The key requirement isn't space but rather secure fencing, as these dogs should never be off-leash in unfenced areas due to their high prey drive and incredible speed. Greyhounds can adapt well to apartment living as long as they receive regular exercise and have a comfortable place to rest.

What health issues should Greyhound owners watch for?

Our survey revealed that dental problems are the most common health concern, with 60.61% of owners reporting dental issues requiring regular professional cleanings and maintenance. Digestive issues affect 51.52% of Greyhounds, including sensitive stomachs and potential bloat, which requires careful feeding management.

Skin conditions impact 24.24% of the breed, largely due to their thin, sensitive skin that's prone to cuts and scrapes. While joint issues are less common, owners should monitor for signs of arthritis or injury. Some Greyhounds may also experience separation anxiety, particularly those transitioning from racing life, requiring patient training and gradual adjustment to being alone.

How do Greyhounds adapt to home life after racing?

The transition from track to home life requires patience and understanding. Many Greyhounds have never experienced typical household environments before adoption. They often need time to learn basic household activities like climbing stairs, walking on different floor surfaces, and understanding glass doors and windows.

Normal household sounds may be new and potentially frightening at first. Many haven't learned to play with toys or experienced regular feeding schedules, and house training in a home environment may take time. The adjustment period varies by individual dog, but most Greyhounds adapt successfully with patient, consistent guidance from their new families.

Resources for Greyhound Owners

Whether you're a current Greyhound owner or considering adopting one, here are valuable resources to support your journey:

Most Popular Greyhound Names

Greyhound-Safe Enrichment Activities

Italian Greyhound Rescue Foundation

Italian Greyhound Rescue Nevada

Sources

Greyhound Club of America

Retired Racing Greyhound Adoption Organizations

Greyhound Health and Wellness Information

Note: This article is based on survey data from Sniffspot community members who own Greyhounds. Individual dogs may vary in temperament and needs.

Sam Tetrault

February 05, 2025

Dog Breeds

Sam Tetrault

About the author

Sam is a marketer and dog lover from Seattle, WA. Though she loves dogs of all shapes and sizes, she has a soft spot for dogs struggling with reactivity and anxiety. As a reactive dog owner herself, she empowers dog owners to advocate for their pet's needs when traveling or at home. When not writing for Sniffspot, Sam loves to explore her city and nearby hiking trails. She can be found in nature, reading a new book, or creating content for PNW travel blog. She's a full-stack marketer, and she loves bringing big ideas to life on the small screen.

About Sniffspot

Sniffspot is a community marketplace that enables anyone to rent land by-the-hour as a safe and private dog park.

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Greyhound: Breed Facts, Experience and Tips from 9K+ Owners

Greyhound Quick Characteristics

About the Greyhound

History and Origin of the Greyhound

Greyhound Traits and Characteristics

What to Expect as a Greyhound Owner

Grooming Needs

Exercise Needs

Diet and Nutrition

Health Concerns

How Friendly Are Greyhounds?

How to Train Your Greyhound

Is a Greyhound Right for a First-Time Dog Owner?

What Do Owners Love About Greyhounds?

What Are the Biggest Challenges for Greyhound Owners?

Advice for Greyhound Owners

Get proper support and education

Understand their unique nature

Focus on positive training

Consider their special needs

Frequently Asked Questions about Greyhounds

How much grooming does a Greyhound need?

How much exercise does a Greyhound need?

What living situation is best for a Greyhound?

What health issues should Greyhound owners watch for?

How do Greyhounds adapt to home life after racing?

Resources for Greyhound Owners

Sam Tetrault

About Sniffspot

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