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Greyhound Dog Breed Introduction
Greyhound also referred to as English Greyhound is a sighthound breed of dog that has an inverted S shape body type. This dog was bred for greyhound racing and coursing game. However, the coursing game is now banned in most countries. During track racing, an artificial lure in a form of a windsock travels ahead of the Greyhounds on a rail until they close the finish line.
In many countries, racing for this breed is non-commercial, however, in New Zealand, the USA, the UK, Ireland, Vietnam, Australia, and Mexico racing is commercial and similar to horse racing. Racing Greyhounds retire at the age of 4 to 6 years and are placed in rescue groups for adoption as family pets. Greyhounds that have been adopted as family pets following the end of their racing career need time to adjust to their new lives with a human family.
Fortunately, they are many books and guides published to aid dog owners in helping their pets get comfortable in their new homes. These dogs have a lean body physique which makes them ill-suited to sleep on hard surfaces since greyhounds are susceptible to developing painful skin sores. Providing your dog with soft bedding will prevent painful skin sores.
History
Greyhounds originated from the Middle East and North Africa before spreading to Europe during the dark ages. This breed has been an object of admiration for Kings, poets, and artists. It has also been mentioned by Greeks, praised by a Roman poet, and depicted in art by Egyptians. The early skeletal remains of a dog identified as the Greyhound was excavated in Modern Syria at Tell Brak and dated approximately 4000 years old.
An archaeological finding of sighthound type at the Chotěbuz fort in the Czech Republic dating back 8th to 9th century CE anatomically defined as those of 28 inches high were also genetically compared with the modern Greyhounds and other sighthounds found that it was almost completely identical to the modern Greyhound.
The name of this breed is believed to have been derived from the Old English ‘grighund’. However, the origin of Greyhounds doesn’t appear to have any common root with the modern word grey for color. These dogs were also one of the first breeds to make an appearance in American dog shows. AKC recognized Greyhounds in 1885. The official coursing race dates back to 1886.
Greyhound Lifespan
According to the American Kennel Club, Greyhounds have an average lifespan of 10 to 13 years. However, others may live up to 14 years making the average Greyhound lifespan 10 to 14 years.
Grooming
It has a short and smooth coat that sheds moderately throughout the year. Weekly brushing using a rubber curry brush is advisable to minimize dog hair weaving in your carpet or in fabrics. Regular baths and weekly rubdowns with a hound glove or damp cloth will do.
While bathing your dog, use a dog shampoo to keep the coat clean and smelling great. Greyhounds also have fast-growing nails that should be trimmed at least twice a month if they don’t wear down naturally. Brush the teeth at least twice a week if not daily to remove tartar buildup using dog-formulated toothpaste and toothbrush. Clean the ears on a weekly basis to remove excess debris or wax while checking for signs of dog’s ear infection such as redness, odor, or a thick discharge.
Grooming Brush
Like the Whippets, Greyhounds also have a thin, short, and smooth coat that should be brushed using a rubber curry brush, grooming mitt, or rubber grooming glove. This is because the coat is prone to skin sores, scrapes, and cuts if brushed using a tough brush. Apart from utilizing a soft brush, other Greyhounds grooming tools may include a greyhound comb.
Shedding
This breed sheds at low to moderate levels throughout the year. Regular brushing using a rubber curry brush or grooming mitt will go a long way in managing the shedding level of Greyhounds. Brushing also helps in confining loose hair in the brush that would otherwise spread around the house. Shedding in Greyhounds may tend to be heavy during spring and fall.
Greyhound Coat
Greyhounds are single-coated. They have a thin, short, and smooth coat that lacks an undercoat. This breed also has a general lack of body fat and when coupled with the lack of an undercoat, makes these dogs more prone to extreme temperatures both cold and hot. Therefore, Greyhounds should be housed inside. Due to thin coats, Greyhounds may get shivers especially if they live in a cold climate. Buy a fleece greyhound coat for your pet to wear when it’s raining or snowy.
Hypoallergenic
Greyhounds are not hypoallergenic even though they lack an undercoat and therefore, they shed less as compare to other breeds of similar size. This has prompted the incorrect assumption that they are hypoallergenic. However, they are low to moderate shedders all year round which rules them out. Shedding allows the spread of dander and fur into the environment triggering allergic reactions in people who suffer from dog allergies.
Greyhound Training
Training sessions for Greyhounds should be short and engaging because this breed gets bored easily. This dog is very sensitive and needs a gentle approach to training rather than harsh corrections. Some of the harsh corrections methods include yelling, shoving, punching, kicking, beating, and use of choke or prong collars. These methods make training counterproductive. For effective training patience, consistency, and the use of positive reinforcement methods such as verbal praise, playtime, toys, petting, and treats are recommended.
These dogs also need to be socialized properly by exposing them to a wide variety of places, people, surfaces, sight, smell, situations, and sounds such as sirens, whistles, vacuum cleaners, lawn mowers, washing machines, and door bells to prevent them from becoming fearful. Other ways that you may socialize your dog include inviting people into your home, visits to dog-friendly public stores and places, and also walks in the neighborhood which should be introduced gradually.
Using a crate is significant in housetraining Greyhounds as they get used to their new environment. Remember to place the crate in a room or area that gets a lot of activity going on so that your pet doesn’t feel abandoned. The crate should be a safe place for your dog, therefore, avoid sending your pet to the crate as punishment. Setting a feeding routine and potty training schedule will help your dog with housebreaking.
Racing Training
A racing Greyhound should be socialized early and trained to walk on a leash as this will prepare it to tolerate other dogs. The process of race training begins early with leash training when the dog is 7 months old. Verbal commands are also taught. Greyhounds are first introduced to racing at 12 months old by participating in semi-competitive events at training facilities. This helps with the discipline while exposing them to training with other Greyhounds.
At the age of 14 months, most dogs are considered experienced enough to visit one of the many racetracks at least once a week. A repetitive routine is recommended to increase discipline. Taking your dog to tracks also helps in race training since trial races and sprinting drills are held there. Generally, Greyhounds start at a distance of about 250 meters and the distance gradually builds up.
Exercise
This breed requires a regular schedule exercise time of at least 60 minutes a day and an opportunity to run full-out in a secured yard with a fence of about 1.2 to 1.8 m tall. This will prevent Greyhounds from jumping over them due to their strong prey drive. Since most of the exercises occur outdoor, your dog should always be on a leash except in a fully enclosed area. A common mythologized trait is that these dogs are hyperactive. This is not usually the case with retired Greyhounds that may reside comfortably in an apartment as they don’t require much space and sleep for almost 18 hours in a day.
Greyhound Temperament
- Calm.
- Loving.
- Sensitive.
- Friendly.
- Gentle.
- Quiet.
- Intelligent.
- Affectionate.
Barking
Greyhounds are not barkers and may occasionally bark seeking attention or alerting the dog owner when something is up. This makes them suitable for suburban dwellers.
Aggressive
According to a study conducted in 2008 by the University of Pennsylvania, it was discovered that Greyhounds were the least aggressive dogs towards owners, strangers, and other dog breeds.
Bite Force
Greyhounds have a bite force of 235 Psi. However, the bite force of a dog depends on the object and the aggression that the dog is exhibiting.
Types
Greyhounds are a separate breed of dogs from other related sighthounds such as Russian, Italian, Scottish, Persian, Afghan, Arabic, Russian, and Spanish Greyhounds. Therefore, there is only one type of Greyhound dog.
Some of the other breeds of dogs include:
Pug.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
Greyhound Size
Greyhounds are large-sized dogs that were bred for Greyhound racing or coursing game. Male Greyhounds are slightly bigger in size as compared to their female counterparts in terms of both height and weight. Therefore, Male Greyhounds have a height of 28 to 30 inches ( approx. 71 to 76 cm) with a weight of 60 to 88 pounds ( approx. 27 to 40 kg). On the other hand, female Greyhounds have a height of 26 to 28 inches ( approx. 66 to 71 cm) and they weigh 55 to 75 pounds ( approx. 25 to 34 kg).
Height
Male adult Greyhounds have a height of 28 to 30 inches ( approx. 71 to 76 cm) while their female counterparts have a height of 26 to 28 inches ( approx. 66 to 71 cm).
Weight
A male Greyhound has a weight of 60 to 88 pounds ( approx. 27 to 40 kg) while the female counterpart weighs 55 to 75 pounds ( approx. 25 to 34 kg). However, some may weigh less or more than the given weight ranges.
Average Weight
The average weight for male and female Greyhounds is 55 to 88 pounds ( approx. 25 to 40kg) with the males having an average weight range of 60 to 88 pounds ( approx. 27 to 40 kg) while the female has an average weight of 55 to 75 pounds ( approx. 25 to 34 kg).
Whippet Vs Greyhound Size
Whippets are medium-sized dog breeds that were bred for hunting while Greyhounds are large-sized dogs bred for racing or coursing games. Whippets have a height range of 17.5 to 22.5 inches ( approx. 44 to 57cm) and a weight of 15 to 42 pounds ( approx. 6.8 to 19.1 kg) while Greyhounds have a weight of 55 to 88 pounds ( approx. 25 to 40 kg) with a height of 27 to 30 inches ( approx. 68 to 76 cm).
Names
Dog owners of this breed may give names to their pets based on their character and origin. Others may also name their pets popular or cool names that have been listed on various sites. Regardless, it is important to name your pet a name that is not used by other family members or people who frequent your home to avoid confusion.
Names Female
- Lola.
- Penny.
- Lucy.
- Daisy.
- Luna.
- Rosie.
- Stella.
- Sandy.
- Alice.
- Mia.
- Chloe.
- Sadie.
- Zoey, etc.
Names Male
- Toby.
- Winston.
- Harvey.
- Pax.
- Elliot.
- Cooper.
- Charlie.
- Shadow.
- Jack.
- Finn.
- Max.
- Duke, etc.
Greyhound Colors
There are approximately 30 color forms that are acceptable for Greyhounds. The coat colors may have variations of fawn, black, brindle, blue( gray), and red, and can appear unique or in a combination of either.
Health Issues
Inherited diseases in this breed are rare since Greyhounds are typically healthy and long-lived breed. However, they have been known to develop Osteosarcoma, esophageal achalasia, gastric dilatation, greyhound fibrinolytic syndrome, eye problems, and cardiac diseases.
Greyhounds cannot metabolize barbiturate-based anesthesia as other breeds because their livers have a lower amount of oxidative enzymes. These dogs also have unusual blood chemistry which may lead to an incorrect diagnosis if the veterinarian is not familiar with the breed.
This breed is also sensitive to insecticides and vets don’t recommend the use of flea spray on Greyhounds if the product is pyrethrin-based. Instead, use products like Amitraz, Lufenuron, Imidacloprid, and Frontline since they are safe for your pet. Furthermore, they are effective in controlling ticks and fleas.
Allergies
These dogs also suffer from various forms of allergies including food, skin, environment, and contact allergies. Some of the common allergens for Greyhounds include grass, pollen, medications, food, shampoos, fleas, mites, ragweed, house molds, plastics, bed linens, trees, etc. Some of the signs that may be exhibited by your dog while suffering from an allergy includes vomiting, dry flaky skin, sneezing, paw rubbing or chewing, itch ears, redness, chronic ear infections, etc.
Food Allergies
Greyhounds are also susceptible to food allergies that result to an immune response that is normally accompanied with a wide range of symptoms ranging from skin issues to gastrointestinal stress. Signs of skin issues include hives, lesions, facial swelling, dermatitis, hot spots, and pruritus. On the other hand, gastrointestinal stress include acute vomiting and/or diarrhea.
Apart from food allergies, a Greyhound may suffer from food intolerance that occurs as a gradual response to an offending ingredient in the diet of the pooch such as chicken, beef, fish, pork,, lamb, additives, soy, corn, fillers, wheat, chemicals, flavors, preservatives, etc.
Skin Condition
This breed has a thin, short, and smooth coat that is prone to skin sores if the dog lies on hard surfaces. Using a hard brush while grooming Greyhounds may also result in scrapes and scratches on the skin. Greyhounds may also suffer from skin allergies that may be caused by environmental allergens such as grass as well as food allergens.
Ears
A Greyhound has ears that are rose-shaped that fall to the side resembling a rose petal. Racing greyhounds have ear tattoos for the purpose of identification. However, it has been reported that some trainers cut off the ears of racing greyhounds after they lose the race so that they can’t be traced back to them.
Eye
Greyhounds have eyes that possess stereoscopic vision which means they are able to see moving objects. However, they are prone to suffer from eye problems including Pannus, an immune-mediated condition that affects the clear part of the eye.
Litter Size
A female Greyhound may deliver a litter size of about 1 to 12 puppies. However, the average litter size in this breed is 8 puppies.
Greyhound Dog Food
While feeding Greyhounds, avoid canned dog food or table scraps as may be heard on the digestive system. To prevent bloat or gastric torsion in this breed, avoid exercising your dog one hour before or after meals, feeding your dog one large meal a day, and allowing it to take large amounts of water after feeding.
Greyhounds should also be fed 250 to 300 grams of meat each day. Supplement the meat with vegetables, some dry food, and fish oil. Greyhounds that have retired from racing tend to add a weight of roughly 5 pounds. However, they should not be allowed to gain more than that.
Feeding
Female adult Greyhounds should feed a total of 1 1/2 to 3 cups a day twice while the male counterpart should be fed 2 1/2 to 4 cups of total quality food in a day two times. The amount of food that you feed your pet depends on age, activity level, metabolism, and weight. For instance, a female Greyhound weighing 29 kg should feed 2.5 to 3 cups per day in two servings while a male weighing 32 kg should feed twice a day a total of 3 to 4 cups. Greyhound puppies should be fed 3 to 4 times a day a total of 1 to 1.5 cups.
Greyhound Speed
The maximum speed that this dog can run is 72 km/h ( approx. 44.7 miles per hour). The body anatomy of Greyhounds is composed of a deep chest, slim build, long & powerful legs, and flexible spine allowing them to reach an average speed of about 40 miles per hour ( 64km/h).
Hair Loss
Hair loss around the body, chest, thighs, neck, and behind the ears is common in this breed due to bald thigh syndrome (BTS). This condition is more prevalent in dark-colored Greyhounds. Hair loss was initially thought to be a result of the dog rubbing against the crate. Recently, this condition has been associated with the over-production of cortisol.
Collars
Greyhound owners using collars are cautioned against the use of flea collars since Greyhounds are sensitive to insecticides. When on leash use a martingale collar or sighthound collar because these dogs have long and narrow necks. The collar should not be too tight and you should be able to insert two fingers. However, it should not be loose to the extent that the dog may slip out of it.
Harness
Greyhounds are prone to pulling when on a leash since they have an inherent prey drive. A harness is good for dogs that pull as they effectively prevent them from giving chase.
Neck Size
An adult Greyhound may have a neck size of 18 to 20 inches ( approx. 46 to 50 cm).
Muzzle
While racing, Greyhounds should have their muzzles on to protect them from each other as they are racing nose to nose. A Greyhound living in a rescue facility should also have a muzzle on while in public.
Teeth
An adult Greyhound has a total of 42 permanent teeth while a puppy has 28 milk teeth. According to a study conducted by Royal Veterinary College, 39% of Greyhounds suffer from dental problems. Therefore, regular teeth cleaning at least twice a week using the dog-formulated toothpaste is key.
Anatomy
Greyhounds have an inverted S body anatomy that has a deep chest, lean physique, flexible spine, and long & powerful legs. Furthermore, this breed is dolichocephalic meaning that it has a skull that is relatively long in comparison to its elongated muzzle and breadth.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Are Greyhound Hypoallergenic
No. Greyhounds are not hypoallergenic even though they lack an undercoat hence shed at minimal to moderate levels all-year round. A moulting coat allows dander and fur to spread into the environment triggering allergic reactions.
Are Greyhound Aggressive
No. According to a study conducted by the University of Pennsylvania, Greyhounds are less likely to be aggressive to their owners, strangers, and other animals.
Are Greyhound Good Apartment Dogs
Absolutely. Greyhounds are not regular barkers unless they are seeking attention or alerting their owners of something. Furthermore, retired ex-racers only need a small space and may have a total of 18 hours of sleep in a day.
Quick Greyhound Facts
- This breed is able to run faster than other dogs because it has higher levels of red blood cells as compared to other breeds. Red blood cells carry oxygen to the muscles allowing the Greyhounds to move larger quantities of oxygen from the lungs to the muscles.
- It is the only dog breed that has been mentioned in the Bible.
- It has a strong prey drive and should always be on a leash during walks.
