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Because the racing greyhound has lived a very sheltered and regimented life, becoming a pet is almost like being "reborn." As a result, they will be curious, awestruck, and somewhat frightened as they enter their new lives. Greyhounds must learn about stairs, windows, sliding doors, mirrors, swimming pools, riding in cars, cats, and children. But with a little understanding and love, they adjust and blossom very quickly into loving and well-mannered pets.
Greyhounds must NEVER be kept outdoors in a dog house or garage. They must live INDOORS with you. Greyhounds have little body fat and one layer of hair and therefore do not tolerate extreme heat or cold. They have been kept in a temperature controlled kennel all of their lives. A soft bed is a must.
Greyhounds must NEVER be let off the lead except in a securely fenced area. Greyhounds can see half a mile. The chase instinct is so strong that no amount of obedience training or calling will stop them once they start running. They will not hesitate to run into traffic or into the woods when pursuing an animal or moving object.
Frequently Asked Questions About Greyhounds
Q) Are greyhounds housebroken?
A) Your greyhound will be kennel-broken. they have learned to keep their crate area clean and to relieve themselves when turned out. They will soon learn the house is their kennel. Confining the greyhound to a crate or baby-gating it in a room while you are not home during its adjustment period is often helpful. In the kennel greyhounds are used to regular turnouts where they are able to relieve themselves. This should also be the case once the greyhound is home with you. Our adoption representatives can provide additional guidance on this during the home visit.
Q) Will greyhounds get along with cats?
A) If you have a cat, you will be matched with a cat tested dog. However, even though your greyhound and cat may become great pals, the two should not be allowed outside in the yard at the same time. Greyhounds are sighthounds and may chase after any furry little creature that runs. You will be given instructions on how to introduce your cat to your greyhound by your adoption representative and more information can be found in your care manual.
Q) Are greyhounds good watch dogs and do they get along with other dogs?
A) Greyhounds as a rule rarely bark and are not territorial. Therefore, they do not make good watchdogs. Since they have been raised with many other greyhounds, they usually get along well with other canines.
Q) Are greyhounds good with kids?
A) Greyhounds are docile and tolerant creatures; they are also "couch potatoes" - perfectly content to lie by your side for hours while you read or watch TV. Therefore, greyhounds are the best pets for quiet, gentle children who do not wish to engage in boisterous play. While greyhounds are successfully placed in homes with small children every day, any young child should always be supervised in the presence of any dog. Even a docile greyhound will snap at a child who hits, pinches, pokes or otherwise torments it.
Q) How much do they eat?
A) Your greyhound will probably eat 3-4 cups a day of premium dog food during its initial adjustment period. We recommend feeding in the morning and in the early evening. On adoption day we will be able to provide more guidance on feeding amounts.
Q) How much exercise do they need?
A) A couple of long walks a day should suffice, with regular runs around a fenced-in yard or other fenced-in area if available but this is not required. Greyhounds typically do not make good jogging companions. Greyhounds are sprinters and not long distance runners and must build up to this gradually. Paws should be checked for injuries if it walks on a hard surface.
Q) How big are greyhounds?
A) Males are usually 26-30 inches at the shoulder and weigh from 65 lbs. up. Females are usually 23-26 inches and weigh from 55-65 lbs.
Q) Can I pick the sex and color of my grehound and how old are they?
A) Yes regarding sex. Ages are between 2 1/2 and 5 years old. Some older dogs are also available. Greyhounds come in many different colors but we hope that the personality and disposition of the dog is more important than color.
Q) What are the grooming requirements?
A) A greyhound has short hair in a single layer, therefore there is little shedding. There is also no "doggie odor". Regular teeth cleaning, nail clipping and brushing is all that is required. Bathe when needed.
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