Share the love of dogs
Breed guide overview
About Greyhounds
Temperament
Exercise
Grooming
Training
Diet
Health
About the Greyhound breed
Greyhounds are sleek and elegant dogs renowned for their incredible speed and graceful appearance. As one of the oldest known dog breeds, their history dates back thousands of years, with origins in ancient civilizations where they were prized for their hunting skills. Today, their heritage as both hunters and racers remains evident in their exceptional athleticism and agility.
Greyhounds hold the title of the fastest dog breed, capable of reaching speeds of up to 45 miles per hour (72 km/h) within just a few strides. Their slender yet muscular build is perfectly designed for speed and endurance.
Weight, height and life expectancy
Males typically stand at a height of 68 to 76 cm, while females range from 63 to 71 cm. Despite their lean appearance, they are surprisingly strong, with an average weight between 27 and 40 kg.
With an average lifespan of 10 to 14 years, Greyhounds make wonderful companions for those who appreciate their calm demeanor, intelligence, and unique charm. Whether relaxing on the sofa or engaging in bursts of high-speed activity, Greyhounds are a breed that combines elegance, athleticism, and affection.
What is the temperament of Greyhounds like?
Greyhounds are known for their gentle and affectionate temperament, often described as calm and reserved with bursts of playful energy during their famous “zoomies.” Despite their athletic racing history, Greyhounds are surprisingly low-energy dogs who love to lounge and relax for most of the day, making them well-suited to quieter households or apartment living.
These dogs are typically quiet, well-mannered, and adaptable, making them excellent companions for individuals and families alike. They are deeply loyal and loving, forming strong emotional bonds with their human family members. Greyhounds thrive on companionship and affection, often seeking out their owners for cuddles and attention.
While Greyhounds are affectionate, they can also be sensitive, so providing them with a secure, nurturing environment is essential. Harsh training methods or loud environments may make them anxious, so a calm and positive approach is best. Early socialisation and exposure to a variety of experiences, people, and other pets are crucial for developing their confidence and ensuring they grow into well-adjusted dogs.
With their blend of calm demeanor, playful moments, and loving nature, Greyhounds make wonderful pets for those looking for a loyal and gentle companion.
Our Greyhound community
"Celyn is a large, extremely chilled, 3 year old rescued greyhound. He's very quiet and friendly. He likes nothing better than a soft sofa or bed and gentle cuddles, but is prone to getting excited and having occasional zoomies."
Celyn's owner, Kay from Morecambe
"Arlo is a lovely, gentle greyhound with a sunny personality. He’s friendly with everyone and great with other dogs. Arlo doesn’t pull on lead & an absolute gent. He enjoys his walks & equally happy flopping down to relax for cuddles & affection."
Arlo's owner, Claire from Newcastle upon Tyne
How much exercise do Greyhounds need?
Despite their reputation as record-breaking sprinters, Greyhounds are surprisingly moderate to low-energy dogs and require less exercise than many people assume. On average, Greyhounds need around 30 to 45 minutes of exercise per day, making them well-suited for owners with varied activity levels.
Greyhounds enjoy a mix of brisk walks, short sprints in a safely enclosed area, or engaging in playful games. They are known for their bursts of energy, often followed by long periods of rest, so balancing exercise with plenty of downtime is important for their well-being.
Exercise Tips for Adults:
While Greyhounds are highly athletic, their exercise needs are manageable:
- Daily exercise can be met through a combination of short runs, leisurely walks, or even mental stimulation like puzzle toys and obedience training.
- Always ensure they are exercised in a secure, fenced area or on a lead, as their strong prey drive might prompt them to chase small animals.
Exercise for Puppies:
Greyhound puppies have specific exercise requirements to support their growth and development. Excessive or high-impact activities should be avoided to protect their developing bones and joints.
- Provide short, supervised play sessions in a safe environment several times a day.
- Gradually increase the duration and intensity of their exercise as they grow.
- By around 18 months of age, they can handle adult-level exercise, but each dog is unique, so consult your vet for tailored guidance.
Mental Stimulation:
In addition to physical activity, Greyhounds benefit from mental enrichment. Interactive toys, training sessions, and scent-based games can help keep their minds engaged and prevent boredom.
By balancing moderate exercise with rest and mental stimulation, Greyhounds can maintain their health and enjoy a happy, relaxed lifestyle.
Do Greyhounds need a lot of grooming?
Greyhounds are low-maintenance when it comes to grooming, thanks to their short, smooth coats. They are low shedders and naturally clean dogs, making them an excellent choice for owners looking for a breed with minimal grooming requirements.
A weekly brush using a soft-bristle brush or grooming mitt is usually sufficient to remove loose hair and maintain their coat’s condition. During grooming, be gentle, as Greyhounds have thin and sensitive skin, which can be prone to nicks or irritation if handled roughly.
Due to their thin coat, Greyhounds lack insulation, making them more sensitive to cold weather. It’s important to provide them with a warm coat or sweater during colder months to keep them comfortable.
In addition to coat care, regular dental hygiene is crucial. Ideally, brush their teeth with dog-specific toothpaste twice daily to prevent plaque buildup and maintain oral health. If daily brushing is not possible, aim for as often as you can manage.
Overall, Greyhounds require minimal grooming effort but benefit greatly from consistent care to keep them looking and feeling their best.
Are Greyhounds easy to train?
Greyhounds are intelligent and eager to please, which makes them trainable, but their independent nature and strong prey drive can present some challenges. While they are capable learners, their history as racing and hunting dogs means they may have a natural inclination to chase, requiring consistent and patient training to overcome distractions.
Using positive reinforcement methods, such as treats, praise, and rewards, is highly effective with Greyhounds. They respond best to gentle and motivational training techniques, as they can be sensitive to harsh corrections. Keeping training sessions short, varied, and engaging helps hold their interest and prevents boredom.
Early socialisation and training are essential to help Greyhounds adjust to various environments, people, and animals. Teaching recall and leash manners is particularly important, given their prey drive and speed. While Greyhounds may not have the same immediate responsiveness as some other breeds, they can excel in obedience, recall, and even dog sports like agility with the right approach and dedication.
With patience and consistency, Greyhounds can become well-mannered, obedient companions who enjoy learning and bonding with their owners.
What Do Greyhounds Eat?
Greyhounds thrive on a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their age, size, and activity level. High-quality commercial dog food formulated for their life stage is recommended to ensure they receive the nutrients needed to maintain their lean, muscular build and overall health.
For Puppies:
Greyhound puppies have specific nutritional needs to support their growth and energy levels. Feed them a puppy-specific diet until they are around 12 to 18 months old, as these formulas are designed to provide the right balance of nutrients for developing bones and muscles. Puppies should be fed 3-4 times a day until they are 6 months old, then transition to twice daily meals.
For Adults:
Adult Greyhounds do well on small-breed or medium-breed dog food that matches their activity level. Avoid overfeeding, as Greyhounds can be prone to weight gain, which can put undue stress on their joints and overall health. Monitor their weight regularly and adjust portion sizes as needed.
General Tips:
- Always provide fresh, clean water.
- Avoid giving them table scraps or foods high in fat, as these can upset their sensitive stomachs or contribute to weight gain.
- Consult your vet for specific feeding recommendations, particularly if your Greyhound has unique dietary requirements or health concerns.
Are Greyhounds Healthy?
Greyhounds are generally a healthy and resilient breed, but like all dogs, they may be predisposed to certain health issues. Awareness of potential concerns can help owners provide better care and detect problems early.
Common Health Concerns:
Bleeding Disorders:
- Von Willebrand’s Disease: A condition where the blood doesn’t clot properly, leading to prolonged bleeding.
Cancer:
- Osteosarcoma: Greyhounds have a higher risk of developing bone cancer, particularly in their legs.
Dental Health:
- Periodontal Disease: A buildup of plaque and tartar on their teeth can lead to gum inflammation, infections, and tooth loss. Regular tooth brushing is essential.
Eyes:
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): A genetic condition that causes the retina to deteriorate over time, leading to vision loss or blindness.
Gastrointestinal:
- Gastric Dilation Volvulus (GDV): Also known as bloat, this life-threatening condition occurs when the stomach twists, trapping gas and food. Immediate veterinary attention is critical if signs such as restlessness, drooling, or a distended abdomen are observed.
Care Tips for Greyhound Health:
- Dental Hygiene: Brush their teeth regularly and provide dental chews to reduce the risk of periodontal disease.
- Weight Management: Keep their weight in check to avoid strain on their joints.
- Regular Vet Check-Ups: Routine health screenings can catch issues like PRA or bleeding disorders early.
- Prevent Bloat: Feed smaller, frequent meals and avoid vigorous activity immediately after eating.
If you’re considering a Greyhound or are concerned about your dog’s health, consulting with your vet is the best way to ensure they live a long, happy, and healthy life.
Vet top tip
Greyhounds are prone to gastric dilation volvulus (GDV), or bloat, a serious and life-threatening condition. To reduce the risk, feed your Greyhound smaller, more frequent meals rather than one large meal, and avoid exercise immediately before or after eating. Always monitor for signs like a distended abdomen, restlessness, or unproductive retching, and seek immediate veterinary care if you suspect bloat.
BorrowMyDoggy loves Greyhounds
BorrowMyDoggy has over 5100 Greyhound members
Information on this page should never replace advice given by your veterinarian. Potential health issues presented are given as a guide only and are not meant to be comprehensive. If you ever have any concerns about your dog’s health contact your local vet.
