Greyhound
Compiled and researched by Izelle de Klerk (BSc) - Dodgy Dogs & Crazy Cats
Canine & Feline Behaviourist
Canine & Feline Behaviourist
Pic from Greyhound Rescue SA.If you are considering a Greyhound, please do contact rescue centres first of all. Contact info for Greyhound rescue below, and if not in your area, please just do a search for one that is. https://greyhoundrescuesa.tumblr.com/
In early Arabian culture, the birth of a Greyhound was a cause for great celebration and second only to the birth of a son. They were the only dogs permitted to share an Arab’s tent or ride atop his camel. To be presented with a Greyhound was considered the most prized gift one could receive. Persians believed that the Greyhound was permitted in the next world to give information and evidence about mankind. It was the Egyptians who first raced the Greyhounds for sport in open fields with a wild hare as quarry and no rules of the game except speed. In the Early Kingdom, Greyhounds were considered to possess divine powers. During the 15th century, commoners were beheaded if caught with a Greyhound in their possession – so the sport of coursing (racing) could remain an elite activity shared only by nobility. When common men were finally allowed to own Greyhounds, their toes were broken so they could not be used for racing. In the 16th century, Queen Elizabeth established the beginning of formalized dog racing, dubbed the “ Sport of Queens “. The first track to open in the United States was in California in 1920.
The name "Greyhound" is generally believed to come from the Old English “grighund”. "Hund" is the antecedent of the modern "hound", but the meaning of "grig" is undetermined, other than in reference to dogs in Old English and Old Norse. Its origin does not appear to have any common root with the modern word "grey" for colour.
The Greyhound is a breed of sighthound – they can spot a moving object up to half mile away. They were originally bred as hunting dogs to chase hare, foxes, deer and wild boar. The dog’s speed along with its keen eyesight helped it excel at its work, they 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 are abandoned, euthenized, or sold to laboratories. But with the dedicated efforts of Greyhound Rescue this practice has greatly reduced and the most mellow-tempered Greyhounds are found homes.
It is a gentle and intelligent breed whose combination of long, powerful legs, deep chest, flexible spine, and slim build allows it to reach average race speeds in excess 63 kilometers per hour. They have a very short smooth coat of which there are approximately thirty recognized color forms - variations of white, brindle, fawn, black, red and blue (gray) can appear uniquely or in combination.
Personality
Greyhounds generally have a wonderful temperament - friendly, gentle, laid-back, charming loving and non-aggressive. They are brave, devoted, intelligent and independent, but can also be sensitive and show reserved behaviour toward strangers and even their owners.
Is this the correct pup for you, which is the best home and why?
Greyhounds will adapt to any living arrangement and, because of their low indoor energy, will do fine in apartments or homes with small yards. Just make sure the yard is properly fenced off and that the fence is high enough (6 feet) to prevent them from jumping out to chase a squirrels, rabbits, or trespassing cats.
They should not be left outside in cold temperatures, because of their thin coats they get cold easily. They make good pets for singles, active/sporty types and families with older children.
They bond strongly with their owners and want to be close to them as much as possible. They can sometimes develop separation anxiety when re-housed or when their owners have to leave them alone for a period of time - this can cause them to become vocal or destructive.
Like every dog, the Greyhound needs early socialization while they are still puppies to prevent them from becoming timid or fearful and ensure that they grow to be a well-rounded dog.
Contrary to popular belief, adult Greyhounds do not need extended periods of daily exercise, as they are bred for sprinting rather than endurance a daily walk will be enough, they also make good jogging or running partners. They love to run, and off lead running sessions about twice a week in a safe area will do them the world of good. Keep them on leash during walks, only let them off in fenced of areas where it is save to do so. Their strong prey drive will have them ignoring commands if something interesting catches their eye and with their speed you will not be able to catch them. If they aren't exercised regularly, they can become bored, which may lead to destructive behavior. Another way to exercise them both physically and mentally is to participate in events such as hunting, sighting, racing, agility, lure coursing, conformation and obedience.
Greyhounds are not particularly vigilant and they won’t always alert you that someone's approaching your home. In general they don’t bark a lot and they are usually as friendly to strangers as they are with their own family. For these reasons they don’t make good watchdogs or guard dogs.
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. If you do adopt a Greyhound you need to teach them where to go to the bathroom, climb stairs, stay alone, get along with other pets, adjust to a new diet, etc. Luckily they learn all of this very easily.
Some people believe that the Greyhound is an aggressive dog because they wear muzzles during racing, this cannot be further from the truth. The muzzles are worn to prevent injuries resulting from dogs nipping one another during or immediately after a race, when the 'hare' has disappeared out of sight and the dogs are no longer racing but still excited. The thin skin of the Greyhound can tear easily from a small nick from teeth, so even a minor nip can result in stitches and time out from racing. Muzzling Greyhounds, especially retired racing Greyhounds, is a common practice, they have a tendency to nip at other dogs when exited and can hurt smaller dogs and animals. 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.
In a nutshell a Greyhound is for you if you:
The name "Greyhound" is generally believed to come from the Old English “grighund”. "Hund" is the antecedent of the modern "hound", but the meaning of "grig" is undetermined, other than in reference to dogs in Old English and Old Norse. Its origin does not appear to have any common root with the modern word "grey" for colour.
The Greyhound is a breed of sighthound – they can spot a moving object up to half mile away. They were originally bred as hunting dogs to chase hare, foxes, deer and wild boar. The dog’s speed along with its keen eyesight helped it excel at its work, they 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 are abandoned, euthenized, or sold to laboratories. But with the dedicated efforts of Greyhound Rescue this practice has greatly reduced and the most mellow-tempered Greyhounds are found homes.
It is a gentle and intelligent breed whose combination of long, powerful legs, deep chest, flexible spine, and slim build allows it to reach average race speeds in excess 63 kilometers per hour. They have a very short smooth coat of which there are approximately thirty recognized color forms - variations of white, brindle, fawn, black, red and blue (gray) can appear uniquely or in combination.
Personality
Greyhounds generally have a wonderful temperament - friendly, gentle, laid-back, charming loving and non-aggressive. They are brave, devoted, intelligent and independent, but can also be sensitive and show reserved behaviour toward strangers and even their owners.
Is this the correct pup for you, which is the best home and why?
Greyhounds will adapt to any living arrangement and, because of their low indoor energy, will do fine in apartments or homes with small yards. Just make sure the yard is properly fenced off and that the fence is high enough (6 feet) to prevent them from jumping out to chase a squirrels, rabbits, or trespassing cats.
They should not be left outside in cold temperatures, because of their thin coats they get cold easily. They make good pets for singles, active/sporty types and families with older children.
They bond strongly with their owners and want to be close to them as much as possible. They can sometimes develop separation anxiety when re-housed or when their owners have to leave them alone for a period of time - this can cause them to become vocal or destructive.
Like every dog, the Greyhound needs early socialization while they are still puppies to prevent them from becoming timid or fearful and ensure that they grow to be a well-rounded dog.
Contrary to popular belief, adult Greyhounds do not need extended periods of daily exercise, as they are bred for sprinting rather than endurance a daily walk will be enough, they also make good jogging or running partners. They love to run, and off lead running sessions about twice a week in a safe area will do them the world of good. Keep them on leash during walks, only let them off in fenced of areas where it is save to do so. Their strong prey drive will have them ignoring commands if something interesting catches their eye and with their speed you will not be able to catch them. If they aren't exercised regularly, they can become bored, which may lead to destructive behavior. Another way to exercise them both physically and mentally is to participate in events such as hunting, sighting, racing, agility, lure coursing, conformation and obedience.
Greyhounds are not particularly vigilant and they won’t always alert you that someone's approaching your home. In general they don’t bark a lot and they are usually as friendly to strangers as they are with their own family. For these reasons they don’t make good watchdogs or guard dogs.
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. If you do adopt a Greyhound you need to teach them where to go to the bathroom, climb stairs, stay alone, get along with other pets, adjust to a new diet, etc. Luckily they learn all of this very easily.
Some people believe that the Greyhound is an aggressive dog because they wear muzzles during racing, this cannot be further from the truth. The muzzles are worn to prevent injuries resulting from dogs nipping one another during or immediately after a race, when the 'hare' has disappeared out of sight and the dogs are no longer racing but still excited. The thin skin of the Greyhound can tear easily from a small nick from teeth, so even a minor nip can result in stitches and time out from racing. Muzzling Greyhounds, especially retired racing Greyhounds, is a common practice, they have a tendency to nip at other dogs when exited and can hurt smaller dogs and animals. 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.
In a nutshell a Greyhound is for you if you:
- Want an indoor dog, but will give them exercise
- Have the time to train them to adjust to life in a new home (if adopting)
- Are firm but gentle when it comes to discipline
- Are willing to give them lots of attention and love
- Want a dog that is quiet, clean, gentle and easy to care for
- Don’t have small children
- Want a dog that will get along with other dogs
- Are willing to spend time socializing and training them
- Don’t want a watch- or guard dog
- Want a dog that is active but does not need a ton of exercise
- Easy to groom
Where do I get my pup from?
Only from reputable breeders! One can contact the Kennel Union Of South Africa (KUSA). They have a list of breeders who have puppies available or a KUSA associated breed club.
Always try and meet both parents of the puppies. This is not always possible as the sire (father) may be an imported dog. Definitely ask to see the mother.
Please read our articles on how to choose a reputable breeder on the Puppies page.
Which other breeds are most compatible with the Greyhound?
These dogs are loving, gentle and sensitive, they won’t do well with dominant breeds; like Staffies, German Sheppards, Bull Terriers, Rottweilers, etc; or boisterous breeds like Boxers.
The best option will be a dog that has a similar temperament like naturally another Greyhound, Afghan Hound, Borzoi, Italian Greyhound, Saluki, Whippet, etc.
Is it wise to have two or more of the same breed?
Most definitely, this is the most ideal situation as they understand each other. Preferably have a male and female. Two females will also get along as long as they are introduced as puppies. An older female will get on with a puppy female but it is not advisable to introduce two fully grown females.
Should I get two pups together?
This is not a good idea. Most people think that the pups will be happier with a playmate and won’t fight if they are family. The truth of the matter is that your two pups are likely to:
Please read ‘Placing Littermates in the same home’ and ‘Double Trouble - (why you shouldn’t get two puppies)’ on our website for more information.
Is it wise to keep same-sex dogs?
To keep two or more same-sex dogs of a rather dominant breed together, is often a recipe for conflict. They can get along fine, until they are ‘triggered’ by a ball or a bone lying on the lawn, when both might want to take possession of it, or by someone delivering mail and when they rush for the gate and can’t get to the ‘intruder’, they go for one another.
Do they get on well with other animals?
They are generally very friendly towards other dogs and can get along well with cats (as long as the cat does not run away from them). However because of their high prey drive they will chase smaller pets like rabbits, hamsters, and anything else that runs from them.
Keep in mind that, like with all dogs, the level at which these dogs get along with other animals depends greatly on how well they were socialized as pups
Are they good with children?
Greyhounds can be patient with children and have been known to step delicately around toddlers, but they do best in homes with older children who know how to act around them. Toddlers and mall children tend to be a bit rough while trying to play with the dog and they do not like that; however, they are more likely to walk away from a teasing child than to snap at him.
In general they have a friendly attitude toward people and are not aggressive toward strangers although some can be aloof - but give them a treat and they're likely to become a friend for life.
Only from reputable breeders! One can contact the Kennel Union Of South Africa (KUSA). They have a list of breeders who have puppies available or a KUSA associated breed club.
Always try and meet both parents of the puppies. This is not always possible as the sire (father) may be an imported dog. Definitely ask to see the mother.
Please read our articles on how to choose a reputable breeder on the Puppies page.
Which other breeds are most compatible with the Greyhound?
These dogs are loving, gentle and sensitive, they won’t do well with dominant breeds; like Staffies, German Sheppards, Bull Terriers, Rottweilers, etc; or boisterous breeds like Boxers.
The best option will be a dog that has a similar temperament like naturally another Greyhound, Afghan Hound, Borzoi, Italian Greyhound, Saluki, Whippet, etc.
Is it wise to have two or more of the same breed?
Most definitely, this is the most ideal situation as they understand each other. Preferably have a male and female. Two females will also get along as long as they are introduced as puppies. An older female will get on with a puppy female but it is not advisable to introduce two fully grown females.
Should I get two pups together?
This is not a good idea. Most people think that the pups will be happier with a playmate and won’t fight if they are family. The truth of the matter is that your two pups are likely to:
- Bond with each other to the exclusion of you
- Will stress without the other dog being around
- Fight with each other
- Be more destructive and boisterous
- Two pups together often leads to one being more assertive and the other more submissive. This could well end up in a situation where the more submissive dog will never develop its full potential.
- Mature later
Please read ‘Placing Littermates in the same home’ and ‘Double Trouble - (why you shouldn’t get two puppies)’ on our website for more information.
Is it wise to keep same-sex dogs?
To keep two or more same-sex dogs of a rather dominant breed together, is often a recipe for conflict. They can get along fine, until they are ‘triggered’ by a ball or a bone lying on the lawn, when both might want to take possession of it, or by someone delivering mail and when they rush for the gate and can’t get to the ‘intruder’, they go for one another.
Do they get on well with other animals?
They are generally very friendly towards other dogs and can get along well with cats (as long as the cat does not run away from them). However because of their high prey drive they will chase smaller pets like rabbits, hamsters, and anything else that runs from them.
Keep in mind that, like with all dogs, the level at which these dogs get along with other animals depends greatly on how well they were socialized as pups
Are they good with children?
Greyhounds can be patient with children and have been known to step delicately around toddlers, but they do best in homes with older children who know how to act around them. Toddlers and mall children tend to be a bit rough while trying to play with the dog and they do not like that; however, they are more likely to walk away from a teasing child than to snap at him.
In general they have a friendly attitude toward people and are not aggressive toward strangers although some can be aloof - but give them a treat and they're likely to become a friend for life.
Training requirements and grooming
Training
Training your Greyhound, whether adopted as an adult or bought as a puppy, should begin as soon as they get home. They are highly intelligent, intuitive, loyal and fairly easy to train; although they can have a stubborn streak and often approach training with a "what do I get out of it?" mentality.
Because they also have a sensitive side, harsh training is the worst approach you can use. They will not respond to a threatening manner and violence will be fatal to your relationship with the dog. They need a confident owner with patience, consistency, and training methods that use rewards rather than punishment - they like food rewards best.
Crate and house training them is generally easy but they sometimes have difficulty with the sit command as it's not a natural position for them, and you will often see them sort of balancing on their tail.
Grooming
Greyhounds have a short, smooth coat and are low to average shedders, they require minimal grooming. Occasional brushing or a rubdown with a towel or chamois will do. Only bathe when absolutely necessary and after bathing make sure the dog is thoroughly dry and warm.
This breed's teeth need the most dedicated care. Greyhounds tend to have poor dental health, so regular brushing is a must if you want them to have sweet breath and no ugly tartar buildup.
As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the ears, nose, mouth, and eyes, and on the feet. Ears should smell good, without too much wax or gunk inside, and eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early.
Health concerns
Greyhounds are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they're prone to certain health conditions.
Because the Greyhound's lean physique makes it ill-suited to sleeping on hard surfaces, owners of both racing and companion Greyhounds generally provide soft bedding. Greyhounds are prone to develop painful skin sores.
“In today’s age, with the rising cost of veterinary care, it really is a wise decision to consider medical insurance for your pets. Depending on the plan you choose, you can ensure that if your pet does develop one of the health issues the breed is prone too, that you will be covered –additionally, just knowing that any accident your pet may have will be covered, will out-weigh the monthly insurance fee for most pet owners. Our own personal choice is Genricpet as they have a ‘no limit’ policy and their rates are comparable to the rest of the industry. To find out the questions and things to look for in a Medical Insurance, please just follow this link”
Life expectancy
About 14-16 years.
Interesting Facts
Training
Training your Greyhound, whether adopted as an adult or bought as a puppy, should begin as soon as they get home. They are highly intelligent, intuitive, loyal and fairly easy to train; although they can have a stubborn streak and often approach training with a "what do I get out of it?" mentality.
Because they also have a sensitive side, harsh training is the worst approach you can use. They will not respond to a threatening manner and violence will be fatal to your relationship with the dog. They need a confident owner with patience, consistency, and training methods that use rewards rather than punishment - they like food rewards best.
Crate and house training them is generally easy but they sometimes have difficulty with the sit command as it's not a natural position for them, and you will often see them sort of balancing on their tail.
Grooming
Greyhounds have a short, smooth coat and are low to average shedders, they require minimal grooming. Occasional brushing or a rubdown with a towel or chamois will do. Only bathe when absolutely necessary and after bathing make sure the dog is thoroughly dry and warm.
This breed's teeth need the most dedicated care. Greyhounds tend to have poor dental health, so regular brushing is a must if you want them to have sweet breath and no ugly tartar buildup.
As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the ears, nose, mouth, and eyes, and on the feet. Ears should smell good, without too much wax or gunk inside, and eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early.
Health concerns
Greyhounds are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they're prone to certain health conditions.
- Anesthesia Sensitivity: Sighthounds, including Greyhounds, are sensitive to anesthesia and some other drugs. A normal dose for any other dog of his size can kill a Greyhound, probably because of the breed's low percentage of body fat. Choose a veterinarian who's aware of this sensitivity and knows how to dose your Greyhound. If you can't find a vet who's knowledgeable about sighthounds, be sure to alert any vet who treats your dog to this sensitivity.
- Hypothyroidism: Hypothyroidism involves low levels of the hormone produced by the thyroid gland. A mild sign of the disease may be infertility. More obvious signs include obesity, mental dullness, lethargy, drooping of the eyelids, low levels, and irregular heat cycles. The dog's fur becomes coarse and brittle and begins to fall out, while the skin becomes tough and dark. Hypothyroidism can be treated with daily thyroid medication, which must continue throughout the dog's life. A dog that's getting daily thyroid treatment can live a full and happy life.
- Osteosarcoma: Generally affecting large and giant breeds, osteosarcoma is an aggressive bone cancer. The first sign of osteosarcoma is lameness, but the dog will need x-rays to determine if the cause is cancer. Osteosarcoma is treated aggressively, usually with the amputation of the limb and chemotherapy. With treatment, dogs can live nine months to two years or more. Luckily, dogs adapt well to life on three legs and don't suffer the same side effects to chemotherapy as humans, such as nausea and hair loss.
- Gastric Torsion (Bloat): Bloat is caused by the sudden influx of gas and air in the stomach. This causes the stomach to distend and twist and can cause death in a dog if it is not treated promptly. Usually the twist must be repaired surgically.
Because the Greyhound's lean physique makes it ill-suited to sleeping on hard surfaces, owners of both racing and companion Greyhounds generally provide soft bedding. Greyhounds are prone to develop painful skin sores.
“In today’s age, with the rising cost of veterinary care, it really is a wise decision to consider medical insurance for your pets. Depending on the plan you choose, you can ensure that if your pet does develop one of the health issues the breed is prone too, that you will be covered –additionally, just knowing that any accident your pet may have will be covered, will out-weigh the monthly insurance fee for most pet owners. Our own personal choice is Genricpet as they have a ‘no limit’ policy and their rates are comparable to the rest of the industry. To find out the questions and things to look for in a Medical Insurance, please just follow this link”
Life expectancy
About 14-16 years.
Interesting Facts
- Greyhound is the fastest dog breed in the world over short distances. According to Guinness World Records, the highest speed at which any greyhound has been timed is 41.8 mph (67.3km/h) in Wyong, Australia 1994
- The retired racer has experienced several years of extensive training, at the cost of approximately R20 000 per dog.
- During the Greyhound’s complete stride, he is off the ground twice – a double suspension gallop.
- Some famous Greyhound fanciers were Cleopatra (the first lady of the Greyhound), Queen Elizabeth I, George Washington, Teddy Roosevelt, and General George Custer.
- They were also the only dogs mentioned by name in the King James Version of the Bible (Proverbs 30:29-31).
- In 1928, the very first winner of Best in Show at Crufts was Primeley Sceptre, a Greyhound owned by H. Whitley.
- Greyhound racing used to attract low-class people who gambled away their week's pay. Hence the saying, "going to the dogs."
- They were one of the first dogs ever to be shown in a dog show.
- The Greyhound is often used as a mascot by sports teams, both professional and amateur, as well as many college and high school teams.
- Greyhound Bus Lines bus company occasionally airs television commercials starring a talking computer-generated Greyhound.
- The Andhra Pradesh (India) police force has a special ops unit named Greyhounds.
- "Greyhound" was the name of several roller coasters in the United States and Canada. None of these rides operate today.
- In Australia, racing Greyhounds are commonly known in slang terminology as "dish lickers"
- The main-character family of the animated television series The Simpsons have a Greyhound named Santa's Little Helper.
- The cover art of the 1994 Britpop album "Parklife" by Blur features Greyhounds.
- The M8 Light Armored Car, a US military vehicle, was nicknamed "Greyhound" by British armed forces during the Second World War.
- In French, the sexual position known as doggy style is known as Position de la levrette (Position of the greyhound).
Do`s and Don`ts of this breed
Do’s
Don’ts
Reference
http://www.petsplace.co.za/greyhound.htm
http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/greyhound.htm
http://www.adoptagreyhound.com/greyinfo/greyhound_information.htm
http://www.dogster.com/dog-breeds/Greyhound
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greyhound
http://dogtime.com/dog-breeds/greyhound
Do’s
- Give them lots of love and attention
- Start Socializing and training them as soon as you get them
- Exercise them daily
- Make them part of the family and family events
- Keep them warm in winter
Don’ts
- A Greyhound should never be allowed to run off leash except in a securely fenced area. They have a strong prey drive and will take off after a rabbit or squirrel before you even see it.
- Let them sleep outside
- Leave them alone for long period of time without human companionship
Reference
http://www.petsplace.co.za/greyhound.htm
http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/greyhound.htm
http://www.adoptagreyhound.com/greyinfo/greyhound_information.htm
http://www.dogster.com/dog-breeds/Greyhound
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greyhound
http://dogtime.com/dog-breeds/greyhound