Greyhound

Known for their speed, Greyhounds are big gentle dogs and the perfect match for those who want a companion who is both active and a total couch potato. Whether you’re thinking of borrowing one or getting your own, we’ve pulled together lots of fun and interesting facts you should know about the breed.

What is a Greyhound?

Greyhounds are large dogs known for their slim build, arched backs and long legs. The Greyhound is a type of sighthound - which means they use sight instead of scent to hunt. Greyhounds were bred for chasing game and for racing - capable of running up to 45 miles per hour, Greyhounds are the fastest breed of dogs. Retired racing Greyhounds are now commonly rehomed as large pets that fit into family life well.

Italian Greyhounds are the breed’s smaller counterpart standing at 33 - 38cm tall. According to the American Kennel Club, Italian Greyhounds (or miniature Greyhounds) are genetically Greyhounds. Given that the Greyhound is a large dog, usually growing to 68 - 76cm tall, the Italian Greyhound’s smaller size can be attributed to selective breeding.

How much exercise does a Greyhound need?

Greyhounds are active dogs that absolutely love a good chase - ideally they should have an hour of exercise each day. Afterwards, they’ll love curling up next to you for a cuddle and a relaxing day at home. Your Purebred Puppy explains, “Though he needs a safe, enclosed area in which to sprint all-out a couple of times a week, he is built for sheer speed rather than endurance and doesn't require hours of exercise.”

H can be very active and loves his walks. Whether it’s a quick 5 minutes to a long hours stroll, he loves adventuring out.

- Holly, Owner of Mr. Handsome (H)

What is the temperament of a Greyhound?

Greyhounds are gentle, sweet natured dogs that can be a bit shy when meeting new people. PetMD says, “this breed is very sensitive, timid and can be reserved around strangers. Indoors, the dog is very placid, quiet, and well-mannered, but while outdoors, it will chase anything small that moves. The Greyhound will also generally behave well with other pets and dogs it has grown up with.”

“Freddie is generally laid back, likes two half hour walks each day and 23 hours sleep. He is friendly and affectionate but not overwhelmingly so and after a wee bit of fuss when you meet him he will go back to his favourite job - resting.“ - Claire, Owner of Freddie.

Are Greyhounds easy to train?

It can be trickier to train Greyhounds because they are independent dogs with a mind of their own. However, it can be done with lots of positive reinforcement. According to Your Purebred Puppy, “Because they are so docile, they must be trained with a very light hand and much more praise than correction.” Generally though, as they are usually gentle and calm and don't require too much exercise, it shouldn't take much to get an owned or borrowed Greyhound to relax in the house quietly. Allison, Owner of Arnold says:

He is very well house trained and can go for a ridiculous amount of time between needing a wee! Greyhounds are very clean dogs, so he won't make a mess in the house.

That being said, here are a few funny quirks that some of our members’ pooches have:

Sue, Owner of Ravi:

He likes to have a doggy bed / cushion outside when it's sunny to sunbathe. He feels the cold and will wrap himself up in a blanket to go to sleep.

Rebecca, Owner of Arty:

Passionate love for home comforts, cashmere scarves and the smell of perfume on any lady! Not a fan of the cheap pet shop paw printed, easily washable nylon!

Angie, Owner of Zuri

She is extremely affectionate and gentle, but will try and 'herd' you if you wish to go a different route to the one she wishes to go on during a walk.

Most common Greyhound names on BorrowMyDoggy:

• Jack
• Murphy
• George
• Lady
• Max
• Ruby
• Lily
• Penny
• Cooper
• Tilly

BorrowMyDoggy member, Kate, joined with her adorable Whippet, Minnie. Watch their story to see why BorrowMyDoggy is a great choice for a sighthound and why Kate says, “BorrowMyDoggy works out perfectly for everyone. It makes me happy, it makes Minnie happy and it makes Selene happy. It’s a win all round”.

High paws to our lovely community for letting us share these facts about their Greyhounds. Paws crossed you found them helpful :)

Looking for the pawfect Greyhound to join you on a walk? Or would you like your Greyhound to make a new friend? Why not sign up to BorrowMyDoggy today.

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