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Greyhounds have been used to hunt just about all small
game as well as stag, gazelle, wolf, and boar. When dog racing and hare
coursing became popular sports, the Greyhound was a natural competitor.
Capable of speeds exceeding 40 mph, the Greyhound in his element is the
picture of strength and grace.
Males range in height from 28" to 30" tall (71-76 cm)
and females stand between 26 and 28 inches (67-71 cm) tall. The slim, muscular
Greyhound has a short, smooth coat that may be any colour or combination
of colours. Minimal grooming is required.
Greyhounds typically have
a short racing career, and since they live 12 to 14 years, there are
almost always adult dogs looking for adoption into loving homes. Check out
our Rescue page for links to adoption
organizations.
The Greyhound is a friendly, gentle,
sensitive dog. Generally quiet, he prefers a calm environment and does
best when he has a predictable routine. Intelligent, affectionate, and
devoted, the Greyhound
will not be happy if he is excluded from the family group. A clean family
pet, the Greyhound is an excellent pet for children.
As a sighthound, the Greyhound can see
clearly for half a mile and has a natural tendency to chase anything small
that moves! Cats and other household
pets may trigger these instincts. He will make a good watch dog as he is
generally aloof with strangers.
Early training and socialization are
important, but since they are sensitive animals, harsh training methods are not
appropriate. The Greyhound appreciates an unrestricted run a couple of times per week.
Ex-racers may be a challenge to control when off-leash. However, training
should address this issue. Dogs raised from puppies in a non-racing
environment should not be a problem off-leash provided they have had the
appropriate obedience training.
As for all dogs, a fenced yard is a
sensible precaution. At home, a dog
running 40 mph across the yard will likely not even notice your electric
fencing!
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