This very ancient breed is the fastest dog in the world and can reach speeds of over 40 miles per hour (65 km/h). Carvings of the Greyhound were found in tombs in Egypt dating back to 2900 B.C. They are thought to have originally descended from the Sloughi (Berber Greyhound) and brought to England by traders before 900 AD. The breed was first brought to America by the Spanish explorers in the 1500s. They were one of the first dogs ever to be shown in a dog show. The Greyhound’s natural quarry are the rabbit and hare, however it has also been used to hunt stag, deer, fox and wild boar. The dog’s speed along with its keen eyesight helped it excel at its work. The dogs were able to chase and catch the pray without stopping to rest. Today there are two types of Greyhounds being bred: Show lines, which conform to the written standard and racing lines, bred for speed. After retiring from a racing career, these dogs were often destroyed. With the dedicated efforts of Greyhound Rescue this practice has greatly reduced and the most mellow-tempered Greyhounds are found homes. The Greyhound was recognized by the AKC in 1885. The Greyhound’s talents include hunting, sighting, watchdog, racing, agility and lure coursing.
Description
The ultimate running dog, the Greyhound is built for speed. Its long legs and arched back enable it to contract and stretch maximally while executing the double-suspension gallop. It has tremendous muscle mass and light legs, further enhancing speed. The feet are long and narrow, giving maximum leverage. The long tail serves as a rudder and brake when running at high speed. The coat is short and smooth. Two types of greyhounds are available: AKC (show) and NGA (racing). Retired NGA greyhounds are smaller, sturdier and faster than show dogs and may be more inclined to chase small animals.
Known as “the world’s fastest couch potato,” the Greyhound is quiet, calm and extremely well-mannered indoors. They are good with other dogs, and with other pets if raised with them; outdoors, they tend to chase any small thing that moves. They are reserved with strangers, very sensitive and sometimes timid. Despite their independent nature, they are eager to please.
Features of Greyhound Dog
- Highlights
- Although a Greyhound puppy is an adorable addition to your family, many sweet adult Greyhounds are available for adoption after their racing days are over. Every year, many “retired” racing Greyhounds are abandoned, euthanized, or sold to laboratories, but they can adapt wonderfully to home life and give you many years of companionship. Before you put your name on a waiting list for a Greyhound puppy, check out the world of Greyhound rescue.
- Because of their thin coats, Greyhounds can get the shivers. If you live in a cold climate, buy a warm coat for your dog to wear in snow or rain.
- A Greyhound should never be allowed to run off leash except in a securely fenced area. Greyhounds have a strong prey drive and will take off after a rabbit or squirrel before you even see it.
- When Greyhounds aren’t socialized exposed to many different people, places, and situations they can become timid and have problems adapting to changes in schedule or environment. Take the time to socialize your dog or puppy.
- Greyhounds are generally a loving breed and affectionate to their people. Usually this friendliness extends to strangers, but they can be aloof with some or all strangers.
- Although many believe that this breed is made to run and has the destructive energy to go with it, that couldn’t be further from the truth. Greyhounds are generally docile and quiet, and they’re world-class nappers. They do well in apartments and homes with small yards because of their low indoor energy.
- Muzzling Greyhounds, especially retired racing Greyhounds, is a common practice. Greyhounds will nip at other dogs and can hurt smaller dogs and animals if their prey drive takes over. Many rescues recommend muzzling adopted Greyhounds, at least until they get settled into their new homes and you have a better idea of their temperament.
- Greyhounds are low to average shedders depending on the time of the year and the individual dog, and they require minimal grooming. The lack of a heavy coat leaves their skin vulnerable to scrapes, tears, and nicks.
- To get a healthy dog, never buy a puppy from an irresponsible breeder, puppy mill, or pet store. Look for a reputable breeder who tests her breeding dogs to make sure they’re free of genetic diseases that they might pass onto the puppies, and that they have sound temperaments.
Specification of Greyhound Dog
| HEIGHT | 27-30 inches |
| WEIGHT | 60-70 pounds |
| LIFE SPAN | 10-14 years |
| BREED SIZE | large (61-100 lbs.) |
| GOOD WITH | families seniors dogs |
| TEMPERAMENT | gentle outgoing |
| INTELLIGENCE | medium |
| SHEDDING AMOUNT | occasional |
| EXERCISE NEEDS | medium |
| ENERGY LEVEL | calm |
| BARKING LEVEL | infrequent |
| DROOL AMOUNT | low |
| BREED GROUP | hound |
| COAT LENGTH/TEXTURE | short |
| COLORS | redfawnblackwhiteblue |
| PATTERNS | bicolorbrindleblack and tan |
| OTHER TRAITS | good hiking companioneasy to groomstrong loyalty tendencieshigh prey drive |
Prices of Greyhound Dog
$800.00 – $1,500.00