English Greyhound
Overview
The ultimate running dog, the greyhound is built for speed. Its long legs and arched back enable it to contract and stretch maximally while executing the double-suspension gallop. It has tremendous muscle mass and light legs, further enhancing speed. The feet are long and narrow, giving maximum leverage. The long tail serves as a rudder and brake when running at high speed. The coat is short and smooth. Two types of greyhounds are available: AKC (show) and NGA (racing). Retired NGA greyhounds are smaller, sturdier and faster than show dogs and may be more inclined to chase small animals.
Known as "the world's fastest couch potato," the greyhound is quiet, calm and extremely well-mannered indoors. They are good with other dogs, and with other pets if raised with them; outdoors, they tend to chase any small thing that moves. They are reserved with strangers, very sensitive and sometimes timid. Despite their independent nature, they are eager to please.
| Size | Giant |
| Height | Male: 28-30 inches (71-76 cm)Female: 27-28 inches (68-71 cm) |
| Weight | Male: 65-80 pounds (29-36 kg)Female: 60-70 pounds (27-31 kg) |
| Lifespan | 10-13 years |
| Colors | Black Blue Gray Red White |
| Origin | United Kingdom |
| Classification | Purebred |
| Good Lapcat |
| Good In Apartments |
The Greyhound will do okay in an apartment if it gets enough exercise. It is relatively inactive indoors and a small yard will do. Greyhounds are sensitive to the cold but do well in cold climates as long as they wear a coat outside. Do not let this dog off the leash unless in a safe area. They have a strong chase instinct and if they spot an animal such as a rabbit they just might take off. They are so fast you will not be able to catch them. |
| Good With Children |
Good with Kids: This is a suitable dog breed for kids. It is also shy toward other pets and friendly toward strangers. |
| Good With Dogs |
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| Good With Cats |
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| Exercise Needs |
Greyhounds that are kept as pets should have regular opportunities to run free on open ground in a safe area, as well as daily long, brisk walks, where the dog is made to heel beside or behind the person holding the lead. In a dog's mind the leader leads the way and that leader needs to be the human. Greyhounds love a regular routine. |
| Trainability |
Moderately Easy Training: The Greyhound is fairly easy to train, and is usually obedient unless it has its eyes on potential prey. Greyhounds are sensitive, so an experienced trainer is recommended. They should be challenged by a variety of training exercises. |
| Affectionate |
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| Playfulness |
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| Grooming Requirements |
Low Maintenance: Grooming is only necessary once in a while to maintain upkeep. No trimming or stripping needed. |
| Shedding |
Moderate Shedding: Greyhounds shed, but regular brushing will help keep the hair off your floor, furniture, and clothing. Bathe as needed. If you do a good job of brushing your Greyhound, he probably won’t need a bath very often. |
| Vocalization/Barking |
Rare |