Greyhound
Mention the breed Greyhound and most thoughts go instantly to the race track where as many as eight of them per race heed the call “Here comes Rusty” and dash around an oval track at speeds up to 45 mph chasing an elusive mechanical rabbit. If not racing, perhaps America’s best known bus line with its Greyhound logo comes to mind.
Whatever your inclination, there is little doubt that this long, lean, sculpted dog is bred for speed. But did you know that this fascinating runner is also the ultimate couch potato? It’s true; the Greyhound loves to lounge around, although there is no word on whether any have yet learned to master the remote.
For more information on this gentle, fast breed please read Adopting the Racing Greyhound
Origin
Considered to be the world’s fastest breed as well as the oldest purebred dog, the Greyhound’s roots can be traced all the way back to ancient times. Some believe as early as 9000 BC, based on bones discovered. For certain, similar dogs have been depicted in the tombs of the Egyptians (4000 BC) and were also featured on papyri (writing paper) during that time period. It’s also interesting to note that the breed is the only one referenced in the Bible.
The exact origin of the name remains unclear but it is believed the name Greyhound comes from a mistake in translating an early German word “Greishund” which means, literally, ancient dog. Grey is not a common color for this breed.
Due to its tremendous speed the Greyhound was long prized for its hunting ability, particularly in Europe. When hunting prey became outlawed around the 1700’s, the idea of racing the breed, or “coursing” as it was called, developed in earnest. It is considered to be the ultimate “sight hound” meaning a dog that hunts by sight and speed as opposed to scent.
Appearance
Lean and powerful or swift and agile, take your pick. All accurately define this breed built for speed and endurance. It has a lean, narrow body, a deep chest with long, muscular legs, and a narrow neck and head. The Greyhound is reported to have a larger heart with greater lung capacity than other breeds. The coat is short, smooth and firm with a satin-like feel. Virtually all coat colors can be seen with the most common being red, black, fawn, and brindle. Incidentally, dogs bred for racing are generally slightly smaller than the pet variety.
Males are 18-20 inches and 20-22 lbs. Females are 17-19 inches and 19-21
Lbs.
Temperament
The Greyhound is a sweet, gentle, and loyal dog. This breed is surprisingly docile and obedient considering its strong hunting background. It is excellent with children though it does not particularly like to “play rough”. The racing life cycle of the Greyhound is relatively short lived, leaving many of these wonderful animals unwanted by the racing industry. (See summary)
Despite their acknowledged hunting instincts, Greyhounds do not make particularly good watch dogs because they can be timid or aloof around strangers. They respond well to training although care should be taken not to be harsh or overbearing with this sensitive dog thus running the risk of breaking its spirit.
Grooming
Greyhounds need only an occasional brushing and they shed little. They have very thin, sensitive skin and as a result can suffer from many chemical allergies. As such, only shampoo when necessary. It is also not wise to put a flea collar on this breed. Check the eyes daily, the ears once a week, and keep the nails trimmed.
Exercise
As you would imagine with this breed, the Greyhound will benefit from daily brisk walks or jogs, and always on a leash since their sight hound instincts can lead them to bolt. (Believe me they are faster than you) It should also have regular opportunities to run free, but only in fenced in areas. Despite this “need for speed” the Greyhound really does prefer the indoors actually making it suitable even for apartment living.
Summary
The world’s fastest breed is incredibly gentle however the breed’s inherent chase instinct suggests that it always be kept on a leash in public. Greyhounds make excellent family companions and only rarely can their hunting instincts cause a problem with a smaller household pet. As mentioned earlier the breed has thin skin so they are not ideally suited to cold weather climates. The National Greyhound Adoption Program, along with many state run associations, provides outlets specifically designed to find homes for retired racers. Many adoptable dogs exist. Puppy or retired racer, the Greyhound will settle happily into a loving family routine.
For more information on this gentle, fast breed please read Adopting the Racing Greyhound