Standard Greyhound Characteristics

About the Greyhound Dog

The Greyhound was first seen in Egypt but was developed to its present form in Europe. They were originally used as large game coursers.

Today, the Greyhound reigns as one of the fastest dogs in the world and is used as a companion dog and a competitive racer.

Greyhounds are generally quiet and shy dogs who need early socialization to avoid severe timidity towards both their owners and strangers. They are very patient dogs who do well with other animals and children though they are not particularly fond of playing intensly. If the dogs are retired race animals, they tend to be much harder to get to rest and relax when inside and around other animals since they are used to racing around. They are very quick and should not be trusted off leash when they are not in an enclosed area because they are so quick and can be veyr hard to catch. They have a great temperment and are very willing to please. They are very loving and loyal to those who own them and care for them.

The head of the Greyhound is very long and narrow with a wide space between the ears which lay back except when they aer excited in which they stand up. Their eyes are dark and bright. Their neck is long, thin and well arched. Their legs are very thin and are perfectly placed a they reach their small feet with well arched toes.Their tail is long and thin and slightly curves upwards.Their coat is very short and smooth and may be any color.

This breed is very prone to bloat and is very sensitive to any sort of medication.

Any type of housing is acceptable for Greyhounds though they do best when given a sufficinet amount of exercise. A regular enclosed area is enough to satisfy these dogs who are generally lazy indoors. One note of caution though, this breed is very sensitive to cold weather and does not do well in it. If you live in an area where the cold is extreme then they do need to be covered in a jacket when they are taken outside.