What qualities make a racing Greyhound a good pet?

How long will it take for an adult Greyhound to bond with the new owner and adjust to life as a pet?
Greyhounds are very friendly and thrive on human companionship. Consequently, bonding is usually established within a matter of days, and getting used to a new environment and routine may take a few weeks. The older dogs tend to be better mannered from the start while younger dogs are generally more curious and active.

Is a racing Greyhound difficult to housetrain?
At the track, racing Greyhounds are accustomed to being let out of their crates several times a day to relieve themselves. Because of this, a similar routine in a new home makes housetraining relatively easy. When the adopter employs patience and common sense, the Greyhound's natural cleanliness will assist in the process. The use of an airline crate can be of great assistance in helping the dog adjust to a new routine and environment.

What provisions need to be furnished by the adopter?
A safe, warm environment, good-quality food, basic annual veterinary care, a soft bed and lots of love.

What ages are available and what is the life expectancy of a racing Greyhound?
Most are between two and five years of age. The adaptable, stable and loving nature of Greyhounds predisposes an easy transition to companion dog regardless of age. Generally younger Greyhounds will be somewhat more active, and the older dogs will be more quiet and well-mannered. The average life expectancy of a former racing Greyhound is 12-15 years.

What is the size of a racing Greyhound?
Racing Greyhounds stand between 24 and 28 inches at the shoulder, and they weigh between 50 and 80 pounds. Females are usually smaller than males.

What are the colors of a Greyhound?
Black, fawn, red, blue, several shades of brindle, and white with a combination of these colors.

Are Greyhounds good with children?
They are better than most breeds, but not as tolerant as some. If a child becomes overbearing, they will usually walk away rather than snap or growl. However, every dog has its limits. Because Greyhounds are gentle by nature, most are fine with children eight years and older if they have been taught respect for animals. Most adoption groups are hesitant to place any breed of dog in a family with toddlers unless there are specific assurances that strict parental supervision will be provided over both the child and the dog.

Are Greyhounds good with other dogs?
Greyhounds are friendly by nature and socialize well as a result of their exposure to other Greyhounds at the racing kennel. Adopters should advise their adoption counselor about the other breeds of dogs living in the household. Common sense must be exercised during the introductory period and with regard to food, treats, bones and toys. Feeding separately is always recommended in a multi-pet household.

Are racing Greyhounds compatible with farm animals?
Be sure to inform your adoption adviser about all types of animals with which your Greyhound will be coexisting.

Why do Greyhounds have to be kept on a leash?
All responsible dog owners keep their dogs on leashes, regardless of the breed, near any road or moving hazard. As sighthounds and racing dogs, Greyhounds are especially at risk of being killed by a car, for they are likely to follow their instincts and run without heed. A fenced park or school yard (all gates closed and monitored) are the only exceptions to the on-leash rule.

Can Greyhounds be obedience trained?
Many former racing Greyhounds have earned obedience titles. However, Greyhounds do not possess the same predilection for taking commands as the working breeds. All training must be done with a light, encouraging hand. Positive reinforcement and / or food are the best incentives for both formal and informal training. Leash rules must be heeded, even with a highly obedience trained Greyhound, as voice control is never sufficient.

Why must my Greyhound be spayed or neutered?
Every year, tens of thousands of Greyhounds are deemed unprofitable for racing. With only a percentage of Greyhounds being adopted, and the remainder killed, it would be unthinkable to risk more breeding.

Are Greyhounds hyperactive?
NO! The most common misconception about racing Greyhounds is that a dog capable of great athletic feats is a dog in perpetual motion. In reality, they are rather lazy and greatly enjoy lounging with the family.

Do racing Greyhounds require a lot of exercise?
They enjoy, but are not dependent on, moderate exercise. They make jogging companions after they are properly conditioned for long distances. In most households, the shared experience of a brisk walk is enough to keep both the adopter and adoptee in good physical health.

Do females make better pets than males?
No! Males and females make equally good pets. The females are generally more independent, and the males are somewhat more affectionate.

What is the most important criteria in adopting a Greyhound?
Working with an adoption counselor to select a dog which will be suitable for the adopter's life-style and environment.

Will adopting a Greyhound change my life?
YES! You will have the satisfaction of having saved a life and will gain the companionship of a devoted, affectionate and loyal friend.

Begin the adoption process!