Greyhound
Updated December 1, 2025
The Greyhound is a sighthound that has been bred for coursing game and racing. Despite their athletic background, they are gentle and affectionate dogs that adapt well to home life and are more of a couch potato than a tireless runner.
Gentle, Intelligent, Even Tempered, Quiet, Affectionate
60-70 pounds
27-30 inches
10-13 years
Black, White, Red, Blue, Fawn, Brindle, Any of these colors broken with white
At a Glance
Good with Kids
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About Greyhound
The Greyhound is a sighthound that has been bred for coursing game and racing. Despite their athletic background, they are gentle and affectionate dogs that adapt well to home life and are more of a couch potato than a tireless runner.
What Makes Greyhounds Special
The Greyhound combines a noble, elegant appearance with a gentle and affectionate nature. They are the fastest dog breed, capable of reaching speeds up to 45 mph, yet are content to spend most of their day relaxing.
Their independent spirit is balanced by their devotion to their families, making them a unique and rewarding companion.
Greyhound History & Origin
The Greyhound is an ancient breed, with depictions of similar-looking dogs found in Egyptian tombs dating back thousands of years. They were historically owned by nobility and were used for hunting fleet-footed game like deer and hare. Their introduction to the Western world is believed to have been through the Greeks and Romans. In more recent history, they became famous for their role in dog racing.
Artistic depictions of Greyhound-like dogs exist in ancient Egyptian tombs from around 4,000 B.C.
The breed was held in high esteem by royalty and nobility throughout history.
The Greyhound is the only dog breed mentioned by name in the Bible (King James Version, Proverbs 30:29-31).
They were introduced to America by Spanish explorers and later used for controlling jackrabbit populations.
The advent of commercial dog racing in the 20th century led to a large population of Greyhounds, and subsequently, the development of adoption programs for retired racers.
Greyhound Characteristics
Dogs are individuals and not all dogs, even those of the same breed, will exhibit all the same qualities.
Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Training Needs
Health Issues
Shedding Level
Greyhound Appearance
The Greyhound is the epitome of the 'form follows function' principle in dog breeding. Their long, narrow head, deep chest, flexible spine, and powerful legs are all perfectly designed for high-speed pursuit.
They have a distinctive 'inverted S' shape to their body.
Physical Features
Ears
Small, rose-shaped ears that are folded back but will prick up when their interest is piqued.
Eyes
Dark and bright, with an intelligent and gentle expression.
Nose
Black and slightly pointed.
Coat & Build
Coat Length
The coat is short and smooth to the touch.
Coat Color
Greyhounds come in a wide variety of colors, including black, white, red, blue (a dilute of black), fawn, and brindle. Any of these colors can also be seen with white markings.
Tail
The tail is long, thin, and tapers to a point, carried low with a slight upward curve.
Greyhound Temperament
Greyhounds are known for their gentle and quiet nature. Despite their athletic prowess, they are often referred to as '45-mile-per-hour couch potatoes' because of their love for lounging and sleeping.
They are independent and can be somewhat aloof, but they form strong bonds with their families and are very affectionate.
While generally good-natured, their strong prey drive, a trait from their hunting history, means they have an instinct to chase small animals. It is crucial to keep them on a leash or in a securely fenced area.
Greyhounds are sensitive dogs and respond best to gentle training methods. They can be reserved with strangers but are typically not aggressive.
Their calm demeanor makes them suitable for quieter households, and they can be excellent companions for both individuals and families.
Temperament Traits
Good With
Health
Greyhounds are generally a healthy breed with a lifespan of 10 to 13 years. However, they have some specific health concerns that potential owners should be aware of, including a sensitivity to anesthesia.
Common Health Issues
Preventive Care
Regular veterinary check-ups, a proper diet, and awareness of the signs of bloat are important for preventative care. It's crucial to use a veterinarian who is knowledgeable about the breed's sensitivity to anesthesia.
How to Care for a Greyhound
Greyhounds are relatively low-maintenance dogs. Their grooming needs are minimal, but they require regular opportunities for exercise in a safe, enclosed area. They are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they are prone to certain health conditions.
Grooming
Greyhounds have a short, smooth coat that requires minimal grooming. A weekly rubdown with a grooming mitt or a soft brush will help to remove loose hair and keep their coat shiny.
They are a low-shedding breed. Bathing should only be done when necessary to avoid stripping the natural oils from their skin.
Like all dogs, their nails should be trimmed regularly, and their teeth brushed often to maintain good oral hygiene.
Training
Greyhounds are intelligent but can have an independent and sometimes stubborn streak. Training requires patience and consistency.
Positive reinforcement techniques work best. Harsh training methods should be avoided as they are a sensitive breed.
Early socialization is important to help them become well-adjusted adults. Many Greyhounds, especially retired racers, may need to be taught basic house manners and how to navigate stairs and glass doors.
Diet
A high-quality commercial dog food appropriate for their age and activity level is recommended. The amount of food will vary depending on the individual dog's metabolism and exercise level.
It is generally recommended to feed them two smaller meals a day rather than one large one to help prevent bloat, a condition to which deep-chested breeds are susceptible.
Fresh water should always be available.
Exercise
Despite their reputation as racing dogs, Greyhounds do not require excessive amounts of exercise. A daily walk and the opportunity to run in a securely fenced area a few times a week is usually sufficient.
They are sprinters, not endurance runners, and enjoy short bursts of speed followed by long naps.
Because of their strong prey drive, they should never be allowed off-leash in an unfenced area.
Environment
Greyhounds are surprisingly well-suited for apartment living due to their calm and quiet indoor nature, as long as they get their daily walks and occasional opportunities to run.
They appreciate a soft place to sleep, as they have little body fat for cushioning.
A secure fence is a must for any home with a yard to prevent them from chasing after small animals.
Living Conditions
Space Requirements
Adaptable and can live happily in an apartment as long as they get their daily walks.
Climate Adaptability
Their short coat offers little protection from the cold, so a winter coat is a necessity in colder climates.
Apartment Living
An excellent choice for apartment dwellers due to their low indoor energy levels.
Best Suited For
A good fit for families with older children or individuals who can provide a calm and loving home.
Training Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Greyhounds high-energy dogs?
No, despite their speed, Greyhounds are often called 'couch potatoes' and do not have high energy needs. A daily walk and occasional sprint are usually sufficient.
Are Greyhounds good apartment dogs?
Yes, their calm and quiet nature indoors makes them surprisingly well-suited for apartment living, provided they get their required daily exercise.
Do Greyhounds shed a lot?
No, Greyhounds have a short coat and are considered a low-shedding breed.
Are Greyhounds good with cats?
With a proper introduction and training, many Greyhounds can live peacefully with cats. However, their high prey drive means that caution should always be exercised.
Why are retired racing Greyhounds often available for adoption?
Greyhounds typically retire from racing at a young age (between 2 and 5 years old) and are then in need of loving forever homes.
Specialized Care Guides
Puppy Care
Early socialization and gentle training are key. Be mindful of their rapid growth and provide a proper diet.
Senior Care
Older Greyhounds may need softer bedding and adjustments to their exercise routine. Regular vet check-ups are important to monitor for age-related health issues.
First-Time Owner Tips
Their gentle nature and low grooming needs make them a good choice for first-time dog owners who are prepared for their specific exercise and training requirements.
Looking for a Greyhound?
Connect with responsible breeders, rescue organizations, and pet adoption services in your area.