Group: Hound Group
Purpose of Breed: Racing
Country of Origin: Middle East
Average Size: Dogs average 28-30 inches and 65-70 pounds. Bitches average 27-28 inches and 60-65 pounds.
Color(s): Greyhounds come in all colors, either solid or multi-colored.
Coat Type: This breed's coat is made up of fine hair that is close to the body.
Grooming: This breed is an average shedder. Its short, smooth coat requires a minimal amount of brushing and can be wiped down with a soft cloth to keep it shiny. Greyhounds require standard care for eyes, ears, pads and nails.
Exercise Needs: Greyhounds are the thoroughbred horses of the dog world and appreciate the routine of running every day. They should be allowed to gallop freely at least once a day in a large, safely enclosed area. When not running, they are essentially couch potatoes-even suitable for apartment living. A fenced yard is a must, though they are not equipped to live outdoors.
Temperament: This breed is gentle and sweet. If properly socialized, they can be very friendly-even a bit over exuberant at times. Greyhounds can also be somewhat mischievous-stealing items around the house-especially food. Greyhounds are very loyal, loving and make wonderful family companions.
Common Ailments: Prone to bloat and bed sores; sensitive to insecticides.
Life Expectancy: Averages 10-12 years.
Trivia: The majority of the Greyhounds in the United States are used in the racing industry. Less than 200 a year are registered with the American Kennel Club. One of the most celebrated Greyhound owners in America was General George A. Custer, who traveled with a pack of about 40 hounds
More Information: Greyhound Club of America
Sparky, our 12-year old greyhound, is a retired racer. He has gorgeous doe eyes and "helicopter" ears that point in different directions when he's especially happy.
Scotty is retired at 3 1/2 years as a racing greyhound. My daughter adopted him this past July.
Henri is 7 years old and is a Greyhound. Henri was adopted in 2001. We were asked to take him by the adoption agency as he was going blind and he needed to be with other Greyhounds.
Happiness is a good bed and a big bone! My Greyhound Journey seems to be smiling when I took this picture. He just received a new bed, very big pillow and a treat. How lucky can a dog be?
Fergie was rescued from a racetrack when she was 2 years old and Eden was adopted when she was 5 months old.