ALL ABOUT GREYHOUNDS: Q & A
|
What if I live in an apartment?
Greyhounds tend to be greyt apartment dogs. Although they're larger than many dogs, they don't usually take up any more room than other dogs. As long as they are taken out at reasonable intervals, many greyhounds love life in an apartment or condo. Many greyhound adopters even report that their apartment neighbors are thrilled to hear a greyhound has moved in because greyhounds tend not to bark. Can I leave my greyhound out in the backyard? Absolutely not!!! Greyhounds are not outside pets. The double-layer coat on most dogs helps keep them insulated from heat and cold. Greyhounds, however, have a single-layer coat so they are not as able to self-regulate their temperature. Their 2% body fat offers little protection from the cold. The thin coat of some greyhounds (especially on their stomaches) causes them to sunburn if exposed too long to the sun. If outside for more than a short time in cold weather, they should be protected with a coat. GreySave recommends that a greyhound's yard be fenced by a 6-foot fence, but a 5-foot fence is sufficient for most greyhounds. Never tie a greyhound to a tree or stake in a yard. A greyhound can reach an amazing speed by the time he gets to the end of the rope, and could likely injure himself. 
What if I have cats or small dogs?
Some greyhounds are absolutely fine with cats and small dogs, and others will see them as just right for chasing. We have a number of foster homes with cats and small dogs, and we try our best to keep overly-curious dogs for homes without cats or small dogs. Most can learn to accept cats, but the introductory period must be very closely monitored. Some greyhounds need to be taught to differentiate between the cat and the mechanical lure they have been chasing around the track. If your greyhound even looks at your cat, jump right in and say NO! It will quickly learn the right behavior towards a smaller animal. Never leave your greyhound alone with your family cat until you are sure they get along. GreySave has some greyt tips for handling introductions for a new greyhound, whether it's for a large or small dog, a cat, or any other pet or family member. If you have any questions, please go to the Contact Uspage and submit your question. 
Are they good with children?
An adult should always be present when a greyhound, or any dog, is around young children. Most greyhounds do very well with kids, especially well-behaved older children. GreySave does not recommend greyhounds for families with very young children and does not adopt to people with children under 6 years old. No matter the age of the child, we recommend that parents work hard at training both greyhounds AND children to live together happily. See Greyhounds and Children. Are greyhounds affectionate? Because they have been in bustling kennels and a racing environment that requires extensive handling, greyhounds crave human company and affection. They have been handled a great deal during their early years by dog walkers, trainers, veterinarians and others. As a result, they are very good with adults unknown to them. A side effect of this is that they do not make good "protection dogs." At the racetrack, your greyhound had to share a human with a dozen or more other dogs. As a result, adopted greyhounds are eager to please and will soak up all the love you can give them. They are very sensitive dogs, and can sense your mood by your body language and the tone of your voice. You'll find that when they are not curled up for a nap, they like to follow you around the house so they know where you are. |
ABOUT THE GREYHOUND BREED
THE HISTORY OF THE GREYHOUND
YOUR GREYHOUND'S RACING HISTORY
WHERE GREYHOUNDS RACE
ADOPTION MOVEMENT
|
Are greyhounds active, noisy dogs?
The most common misconception concerning greyhounds is that they are hyperactive. It is actually the opposite. Greyhounds are an inquisitive, gentle, mild, quiet animal by nature. The greyhound is basically a quiet dog and will spend much of its time sleeping in the corner of the room--unless you allow it a spot on the sofa. They are not barkers by nature, but will bark if excited or if they are trying to tell you something.
GreySave's use of foster homes to acclimate greyhounds to home life also gives us the perfect opportunity to discover the activity level of each greyhound, and to add that info to our personality profile on each dog.
The most common misconception concerning greyhounds is that they are hyperactive. It is actually the opposite. Greyhounds are an inquisitive, gentle, mild, quiet animal by nature. The greyhound is basically a quiet dog and will spend much of its time sleeping in the corner of the room--unless you allow it a spot on the sofa. They are not barkers by nature, but will bark if excited or if they are trying to tell you something.
GreySave's use of foster homes to acclimate greyhounds to home life also gives us the perfect opportunity to discover the activity level of each greyhound, and to add that info to our personality profile on each dog.
Are greyhounds good pets?
Any greyhound lover is sure to say "YES", but you need to make sure that a greyhound is right for your family. Just like any dog breed, greyhounds have a variety of personalities, from outgoing and playful to shy and reserved. In general, greyhounds tend to be calm, gentle and reserved, affectionate, adaptable and loyal.
Dogs learn about their new surroundings by using their mouth. You should use extra caution with small toys that they may ingest. Greys have not been around small toys and may initially want to taste test them and ingestion of foreign objects can become deadly. They are curious, so GreySave recommends that you keep things like toys, shoes, remote controls, cell phones and magazines out of your greyhound's reach.
Most of our greyhounds have some very basic socialization and training, and they tend to learn very quickly (yes, even for housetraining!). In addition to basic commands, other important things most greyhounds need to learn are how to go up/down stairs, not run into glass doors and that some floors are very slippery.
One important thing is to never strike or hit a greyhound as they are extremely sensitive. It's far better to use a stern voice and a verbal reprimand such as NO when your greyhound misbehaves.
Are female greyhounds calmer pets?
One assumption about dogs that does not fit the greyhound breed is that males are more active and unruly than females. Every greyhound is an individual and the full range of temperaments is found among both males and females. Some experienced greyhound owners will say that male greyhounds, if anything, tend to be more easy-going and relaxed than females. Male greyhounds have a reputation in the grey adoption community for being sweet, big "doofuses."
What health issues can I expect with a greyhound?
GreySave treats all medical problems of the dogs in our foster homes, which range from minor cuts and scrapes to severely-broken legs. We recommend regular well-dog checkups with a greyhound-knowledgeable vet, and are happy to help you find such a vet in your area.
Unlike most purebred show dogs, greyhounds tend to have fewer genetic issues (such as hip displaysia, eye, knee, and back problems). Most greyhounds live for 12 years or more, but some have been known to live for more than 16 years!
Be sure that your veterinarian is knowledgeable about greyhounds. Greyhounds require only about one-fourth of the normal anesthetic, and are sensitive to certain flea medications. Barbiturates of any kind are not tolerated by these dogs and are usually fatal if used. Your veterinarian can contact a GreySave representative for further information.
Any greyhound lover is sure to say "YES", but you need to make sure that a greyhound is right for your family. Just like any dog breed, greyhounds have a variety of personalities, from outgoing and playful to shy and reserved. In general, greyhounds tend to be calm, gentle and reserved, affectionate, adaptable and loyal.
Dogs learn about their new surroundings by using their mouth. You should use extra caution with small toys that they may ingest. Greys have not been around small toys and may initially want to taste test them and ingestion of foreign objects can become deadly. They are curious, so GreySave recommends that you keep things like toys, shoes, remote controls, cell phones and magazines out of your greyhound's reach.
Most of our greyhounds have some very basic socialization and training, and they tend to learn very quickly (yes, even for housetraining!). In addition to basic commands, other important things most greyhounds need to learn are how to go up/down stairs, not run into glass doors and that some floors are very slippery.
One important thing is to never strike or hit a greyhound as they are extremely sensitive. It's far better to use a stern voice and a verbal reprimand such as NO when your greyhound misbehaves.
Are female greyhounds calmer pets?
One assumption about dogs that does not fit the greyhound breed is that males are more active and unruly than females. Every greyhound is an individual and the full range of temperaments is found among both males and females. Some experienced greyhound owners will say that male greyhounds, if anything, tend to be more easy-going and relaxed than females. Male greyhounds have a reputation in the grey adoption community for being sweet, big "doofuses."
What health issues can I expect with a greyhound?
GreySave treats all medical problems of the dogs in our foster homes, which range from minor cuts and scrapes to severely-broken legs. We recommend regular well-dog checkups with a greyhound-knowledgeable vet, and are happy to help you find such a vet in your area.
Unlike most purebred show dogs, greyhounds tend to have fewer genetic issues (such as hip displaysia, eye, knee, and back problems). Most greyhounds live for 12 years or more, but some have been known to live for more than 16 years!
Be sure that your veterinarian is knowledgeable about greyhounds. Greyhounds require only about one-fourth of the normal anesthetic, and are sensitive to certain flea medications. Barbiturates of any kind are not tolerated by these dogs and are usually fatal if used. Your veterinarian can contact a GreySave representative for further information.
How do I adopt a greyhound from GreySave?
GreySave usually has a number of greyhounds ready for adoption, and we're always looking for new foster homes and permanent homes. To find out how you adopt a grey from us, click here.
Don't greyhounds need a lot of exercise?
NO! Greyhounds are known as "45-miles-per-hour couch potatoes" for a reason: they sleep 18 to 20 hours a day . But as the second fastest land animal, they can run at truly amazing speeds for very short bursts. Because of this, greyhounds MUST be leashed at all times when not in a fenced area. When they're inside your home, however, you're most likely to find them lounging on their dog bed or your couch.
Exercising your greyhound with walks and occasional chances to run around in a fenced area is all that's required. Most greyhounds will enjoy an occasional sprint in an enclosed, grassy area.Some of them love to run; others are simply not interested after they retire.
GreySave usually has a number of greyhounds ready for adoption, and we're always looking for new foster homes and permanent homes. To find out how you adopt a grey from us, click here.
Don't greyhounds need a lot of exercise?
NO! Greyhounds are known as "45-miles-per-hour couch potatoes" for a reason: they sleep 18 to 20 hours a day . But as the second fastest land animal, they can run at truly amazing speeds for very short bursts. Because of this, greyhounds MUST be leashed at all times when not in a fenced area. When they're inside your home, however, you're most likely to find them lounging on their dog bed or your couch.
Exercising your greyhound with walks and occasional chances to run around in a fenced area is all that's required. Most greyhounds will enjoy an occasional sprint in an enclosed, grassy area.Some of them love to run; others are simply not interested after they retire.
How should I correct my greyhound?
For any correction, a firm NO! is all that you should need. Your tone of voice and a firm NO! will quickly let your greyhound know how to behave. Some methods taught by obedience schools prove too harsh for use with greyhounds and must be modified.
How do track (NGA) and show (AKC) greyhounds differ?
In general, track greyhounds are a little shorter and less heavy than show greyhounds. Track greyhounds are more heavily muscled in the rear and their necks and heads are not as slender or exaggerated as those of show greyhounds. Behavioral differences probably are due to differences in upbringing. Track greyhounds may live longer because of superior cardio-vascular conditioning. However, these differences have not been established scientifically. (Right: Cedric is an AKC greyhound that GreySave helped find a new home.)
For any correction, a firm NO! is all that you should need. Your tone of voice and a firm NO! will quickly let your greyhound know how to behave. Some methods taught by obedience schools prove too harsh for use with greyhounds and must be modified.
How do track (NGA) and show (AKC) greyhounds differ?
In general, track greyhounds are a little shorter and less heavy than show greyhounds. Track greyhounds are more heavily muscled in the rear and their necks and heads are not as slender or exaggerated as those of show greyhounds. Behavioral differences probably are due to differences in upbringing. Track greyhounds may live longer because of superior cardio-vascular conditioning. However, these differences have not been established scientifically. (Right: Cedric is an AKC greyhound that GreySave helped find a new home.)
Can I adopt a puppy?
Greyhound puppies are rare, but we occasionally do find a puppy in a shelter, get one from a racing dog farm or bring in a pregnant female. Like any other puppy, they have a lot of growing to do and are considered adolescents until they're at least 3-years of age. In addition to the average puppy's busy nature, a greyhound pup has long legs and plenty of speed which makes them a real challenge. We want to emphasize that caring for a greyhound puppy is a huge challenge and not for the uninitiated.
Most greyhounds that GreySave has available will be between 18 to 20 months and 5 years old, but sometimes we will have puppies or seniors available. See the GreySave Puppy page.
Do greyhounds shed?
Yes, but less than most dogs. Their coats are short and sleek. Greyhounds can go long periods between baths without smelling "doggy."
Do greyhounds eat a lot?
Greyhounds don't eat more than other dogs their size. They typically eat one to two cups of kibble twice a day. GreySave suggests greyhounds be fed high-quality dog food, and is happy to recommend a variety of foods.
The important thing is to not overfeed a greyhound. GreySave recommends the two-ribs rule (a good rule for all dogs): you should be able to see the outline of the last two ribs on your greyhound. You should be able to feel the rest of the ribs with a light touch. If your dog is overweight, GreySave has a number of tips and tricks to help you get your grey back in shape.
Can greyhounds swim?
To some extent, but not very well. Their structure and low body fat make them poor swimmers. If they fall into water they will naturally dog-paddle, like any dog, but because they are not bouyant they tend to sink quickly. Never leave a greyhound unsupervised near any body of water, including a pool.
Greyhound puppies are rare, but we occasionally do find a puppy in a shelter, get one from a racing dog farm or bring in a pregnant female. Like any other puppy, they have a lot of growing to do and are considered adolescents until they're at least 3-years of age. In addition to the average puppy's busy nature, a greyhound pup has long legs and plenty of speed which makes them a real challenge. We want to emphasize that caring for a greyhound puppy is a huge challenge and not for the uninitiated.
Most greyhounds that GreySave has available will be between 18 to 20 months and 5 years old, but sometimes we will have puppies or seniors available. See the GreySave Puppy page.
Do greyhounds shed?
Yes, but less than most dogs. Their coats are short and sleek. Greyhounds can go long periods between baths without smelling "doggy."
Do greyhounds eat a lot?
Greyhounds don't eat more than other dogs their size. They typically eat one to two cups of kibble twice a day. GreySave suggests greyhounds be fed high-quality dog food, and is happy to recommend a variety of foods.
The important thing is to not overfeed a greyhound. GreySave recommends the two-ribs rule (a good rule for all dogs): you should be able to see the outline of the last two ribs on your greyhound. You should be able to feel the rest of the ribs with a light touch. If your dog is overweight, GreySave has a number of tips and tricks to help you get your grey back in shape.
Can greyhounds swim?
To some extent, but not very well. Their structure and low body fat make them poor swimmers. If they fall into water they will naturally dog-paddle, like any dog, but because they are not bouyant they tend to sink quickly. Never leave a greyhound unsupervised near any body of water, including a pool.
