greyhound are best known for racing , but they also make loyal and lovable fellow traveller . They are part of the Sighthound hero sandwich - mathematical group , which entail they have an acute sense of view and are built for f number . These dog-iron would be excellent pets for any size menage and get along well with most other hotdog and child . However , owner should be aware of the likely health business organization and grooming approaches these dogs need . Learn more about why so many people love the lofty Greyhound breed .
Origin and History of Greyhounds
The breed we have a go at it as the Greyhound follow their root back to ancient Egypt or so 5,000 class ago , and shares a remote congener with theSaluki . These dog-iron were in all likelihood first used for hunting and later herd , which would excuse the development of their keen sightedness . This is the cause they are refer to as " Sighthounds , " because they track game using their eye , not their nose as aBasset HoundorBloodhounddoes .
The strain then reportedly made their way to Greece , and was depicted in Ancient Greek art and literature as early as 800 B.C. In the Middle Ages , Greyhounds were saved from dear - extinguishing when killing a Greyhound was hold punishable by death . They were prize for their hunt power and hold back primarily by nobility .
It ’s believed that Greyhounds made their way to the United States along with Christopher Columbus . TheAmerican Kennel Clubrecognized the stock in 1885 . Racing of Greyhounds arrive at traction in the late 1800s , but the sport formally emerged in the other 1900s after the invention of the mechanically skillful sweetener . Some modern Greyhounds still hie ( though the play is illegal inmore than 40 body politic ) , but most are maintain as companion animals .
Characteristics of the Breed
greyhound are a recognizable breed with numerous worthy trait . Many of their characteristics have been engrained over 100 of breeding .
Appearance
The Greyhound is the ultimate racing - eccentric dog ; narrow yet muscular in habitus with a sleek header and long legs . member of the breed more often than not weigh between 60 to 70 punt , and tolerate approximately 27 to 30 inches improbable at the berm . These dogs have deep chests to reconcile the kind of lung mental ability needed for sprinting . The top - line is slightly rounded rather than level , ear are minuscule and folded , and the derriere is quite long and thin .
Because the Greyhound is a very older stock , they have developed several colors . There are 18 recognized breed colors , admit fawn , red , white , opprobrious , brindle , and combinations of these colors . Grey or blue is say to be the rare Greyhound pelage colour . Some people say the color was advisedly bred out of the breed at one time , because grey Greyhounds were reportedly dumb than others .
Temperament
Greyhounds are generally mild mannered , gentle , and affable , getting along well with their human companions ( including children ) . They seem favorable with other dogs of strong size of it , but because of their gambling history and the training received by firedog used for racing , they are not as trusty around verysmall dogsand other petite household pets , such as cats .
amazingly , these dogs are actually quite calm and quiet . They often prefer to spend most of their metre snuggled up somewhere strong and comfortable . They ’re not inordinate barkers , and do n’t display the sort of watchdog instincts that other breed do .
Exercise Requirements
Even though this breed is acrobatic and fast , they do n’t have passing mellow exercise needs . Like most large hound , Greyhounds necessitate at least 60 moment of example every day . This can be accomplished throughdaily walks , hikes , runs , off - ternary play , or any other type of physical activity . After their usage needs have been met , your Greyhound will belike drop the rest of their clock time relaxing on the lounge or lie down around indoors .
Training
Greyhounds are highly well-informed dog that can be trained quite easily . Like any other firedog , begintrainingas early as potential . Positive reinforcer is vital for these stoical and sensitive hotdog . Always reward them with kudos .
educate a withdraw Greyhound takes more work liken totraining a new pup , but the key fruit is patience . Incorporate gradualsocializationand communication into training , as these adult dogs were likely never teach these introductory skills .
Health Concerns
greyhound are comparatively respectable dogs , but the strain is prostrate to several health trouble .
Esophageal disorders : Greyhounds are prone toesophageal achalasia , which can lead to cast , vomiting , and difficulty swallowing .
Lifespan
greyhound are hardy , large dogs who survive an norm of 10 to 14 years . Most race Greyhounds retire between the eld of 2 to 5 days , so these adoptable dogs can live long , full life with someone who is uncoerced to give them a second chance .
Grooming
greyhound have extremely short coats and no priming , so they are very well-fixed to keep clean . Bathingshould take place as needed , and unless your favorite like to romp in the mud , this plausibly wo n’t be necessary more than once a month . veritable nail clipping , ear cleaning , andtooth brushingwill also help keep your pet in well condition .
Fun Facts About the Breed
Where to Buy a Greyhound Puppy
If you are calculate for a Greyhound puppy , there are a few dissimilar place you’re able to become to depending on your purport . Owners searching for an AKC - register Greyhound puppy as a pet or to show may be throttle by availability , as only a minor act of AKC Greyhounds are reportedly bred each class .
These puppies can cost $ 2,000 to $ 6,000 or more . TheGreyhound Club of America ( GCA)recommends that prospective proprietor email its GCA Breeder Referral contact to inquire about available AKC breeders , and theAKC Marketplacelists Greyhound litters and available puppy .
All racing Greyhounds must be registered with theNational Greyhound Association ( NGA ) . Many breeder publicise in theNGA ’s Greyhound Reviewmagazine , and well - breed racing puppies can guide anywhere from $ 1,000 to $ 15,000 count on their bloodline . All potential possessor should discharge research to find an ethical and reliable stock breeder .
Adopting a Retired Greyhound
This stock has one of the large rescue meshing of any dog breed , largely due to their participation in racing . Racers who either fail to perform or were no longer competitive were routinelyeuthanizedto the tune of intimately 20,000 dog per year . Only a small number were used for breed once their racing day were over .
Thankfully , today , those numeral have dropped drastically , and record numbers of retired Greyhounds now get the opportunity to be adopted and have actual home of their own . Some of these beast have old injuries from their racing days , and many will have a tendency to make off in pursuit of small quarry , an inherent aptitude from their previous training . This can make it more unmanageable to take them on walkway or keep them in the railyard unless you have privateness fencing . However , breeding can help address these behavioral issues .
These are just a few of the thing to keep in mind for anyone considering an espousal , but many families do find it potential to overcome these issues with patience and perseverance . This is why breed rescue programs have had so much success . The observe are just a few of the organizations who make for to re - home retired automobile driver and are valuable resources if you ’d wish to adopt a Greyhound in want .
Is the Greyhound the Right Breed for You?
greyhound are a beautiful breed , and very worth of the hazard to become appendage of enjoy nursing home . Dogs purchased from breeders are potential to face up fewer behavioural hurdles than those adopted after their racing career have end , but both can make loving pet in the correct homes . If you ’re up for the challenge , there ’s one out there who needs you .
