Our Greyhounds

By: Greyhound Adoption Program of Queensland

Most greyhounds weigh 24-36 kgs and can vary in height from 61-75cm. In general, females tend to be smaller in stature. The breed has a slim, sleek body, narrow skull and long strong legs. The deep chest and narrow waist give the breed its distinctive silhouette.

 

As the name suggests - they belong to the "Hound" group of dogs. Which include such other breeds as - Afghan Hound, Deerhound, Whippets, Salukis, Borzoi etc., who are all sight hounds.

 

The coat of the greyhound is short and smooth. The variety of coat colours is endless, including white, fawn, cream, red, black, blue, brindle and with patches of these colours on white. Greyhounds are known for shedding less hair than other dogs, and for their general lack of "doggy smell".

 

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The Personality

 

The greyhound is an ancient breed of dog that belongs to a family of dogs known as "sight hounds". Sight hounds pursue their prey by sight rather than scent, and have a strongly developed chase instinct of prey drive. This varies from dog to dog, and in spite of this, it is possible for many greyhounds to peacefully co-exist with other pets, including cats, dogs and even rabbits. It is most vital if you are considering adopting a greyhound that you inform us if you have other animals - this allows careful selection of a dog that is known to happily accept cats and other small pets.

 

Generally even tempered and gentle, they are pack-orientated dogs which means that they will quickly adopt human "masters" into their pack. They are most affectionate dogs towards those that they know and trust. To allow different greyhounds to hunt and race together, aggressiveness towards other dogs and people has been nearly eliminated from the breed.

 

Do not expect a greyhound to make a good watchdog - they are indeed adept at "watching", but that's about the extent of their protectiveness over your household. Greyhounds bark very little, which makes them excellent suburban pets, and are usually as friendly to strangers as they are with their own family.

 

The most common misconception concerning greyhounds is that they are hyperactive. It is usually the opposite. The greyhound is basically a quiet dog and will spend most of its time sleeping in a favourite spot. Although bred to be fast racers, their incredible speed is achieved in one all out sprint. Because of this a greyhound usually requires less exercise time than many other breed of dogs.

 

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The Family

 

Greyhounds as part of a Family

 

As sight hounds, greyhounds pursue their prey by sight and have a strongly developed chase instinct to chase the mechanical lure at the racetrack.

 

This chase instinct varies from dog to dog. In spite of this it is possible for greyhounds to peacefully co-exist with other pets, including dogs, cats, birds and even rabbits.

 

A large percentage of dogs would not harm any animal whatsoever, whilst others respond well to detraining. Most adoption groups will have already assessed a greyhound's prey drive before placing it into a home. In fact, most dogs are previously placed into a foster home where there is usually another pet or two. Their reactions with various animals are recorded, to help carefully place them into the right household situation.

 

Greyhounds with other Dogs

 

Greyhounds are friendly by nature and socialise well because of their experiences with other greyhounds in the racing kennels.

 

Watch all new introductions carefully however as the "old dog" may be jealous of the newcomer. Introduction may be better on neutral territory.

 

Walk them both home on leads and lead them around the back yard into the house.

 

It is suggested that a muzzle be used to introduce a greyhound to a small dog until it recognises that it is a part of the family too and not something to pursue.

 

Greyhounds with Cats

 

When a dog is first introduced to the family cat it should be wearing its muzzle and be leashed. It is better to be safe than sorry. This would apply to any breed of dog being introduced to a new pet.

 

Usually with a little time and patience they learn to get along quite well.

 

As you can see in these photos, some Greyhounds can live quite happily with cats and accept them as part of the family.

 

Not all dogs are suitable to go to homes with cats - therefore if you have other animals, we would like you to tell us, so that the right dogs can be offered for your choice as a pet.

 

Greyhounds with Children

 

Most Greyhounds are very good with children. Children must be taught to respect the dog (just like any other large dog).

 

Teach children such things as to leave the dog alone when it is eating.

 

Talk to a dog before touching it when it is asleep. Most Greyhounds will just leave the room when a child becomes too much for them.

 

Greyhounds with Poultry

 

Some Greyhounds can also live in harmony with poultry and birds. These photos were taken of Greyhounds who have accepted ducks, chooks and turkeys as part of their family.

 

All Greyhounds are not suitable in this situation. This is why it is important for the future Adopting family to let us know of their family situation, so that only the right Greyhounds can be offered for Adoption.