Greyhound

Vital Statistics:

Place of Origin: England

Group: Sighthound

Height: males 28-30 in., females 27-28 in.

Weight: males 60-88 lbs., females 60-75 lbs.

Life span: 10-13 yrs.

Trainability: moderate

Good with children: yes

Good with other pets: sometimes chase cats & other small animals

What is the origin of the Greyhound?

Greyhounds originated in the Middle East and are thought to date back 6,000 years. It may be descended from the Sloughi, an Arab greyhound and was brought to Europe by the Phoenicians. The name Greyhound may be a corruption of “gaze hound”, a name given to dogs that hunt by sight. The Greyhound is the fastest breed of dog. It can reach speeds of 45 mph and unlike the cheetah, has the stamina to maintain those speeds over long distances. Over centuries, the English have developed the Greyhound into the hunting and racing dog it is today.

What does the Greyhound look like?

The Greyhound is an elegant looking dog, about 27-30 inches tall and weighing 60-88 lbs. The chest is deep and the spine flexible which makes it such a great speedster. Legs are long and powerful The tail is carried low with a slight curve. Ears are small, fine and rose shaped. Eyes are dark. Hair is short and fine, lying close to the body. Greyhounds are all the colors of dogs.

What is the temperament of the Greyhound?

The Greyhound may be reserved in its manner even with its owner, but it is a loyal, gentle affectionate dog. However some Greyhounds consider other pet, such as cats, prey and will chase and kill them. Early training can avoid this behavior. If you get a Greyhound from a rescue center, question them about getting along with smaller pets. The Greyhound is a sensitive dog and children should be taught to be gentle in their play with the dog.

What are the Greyhound’s uses?

Down through the ages, Greyhounds were used in hunting deer and wild boar. Today it can still be used for hunting, but its main use is racing. It can also perform in agility. Of course, as with all dogs, it makes a fine companion.

Possible Health Issues

Sensitivity to anesthesia, bloat/gastric torsion, osteosarcoma, elevated blood pressure, neck and spinal problems, bloody, crumbling toenails(autoimmune problem).