With this pricing, you’d want to get the best pup possible. To do so, you should look for a breeder that is well-versed in raising and training greyhounds. Not only that, but you should also prioritize characteristics, including temperament and genetics.
Are Greyhounds Expensive?
Greyhounds may not be among the priciest breeds out there. However, they can still be quite expensive, especially if you’re looking for one with a proven pedigree. Their prices may also increase depending on their health, where you plan to buy them, and their gender.
In general, raising and letting a dog into your life is expensive. Aside from the initial fees of adopting or purchasing them, you’d also have to worry about maintenance costs. This is especially the case for greyhounds, known to be an easygoing but highly-sensitive breed.
You must spend money on their immediate needs, including food, bowls, and toys. In addition, their health shouldn’t be neglected, so allocate some budget for their regular vet trips. You could also opt to enroll them in training classes to help them behave and adjust to their new lives.
Why Do Greyhounds Cost So Much?
Greyhounds are bred as racing dogs, which is the main reason why they cost so much. More often than not, they’re selectively spawned from parents with superior canine genetics. As such, don’t be surprised if one from champion bloodlines costs a whopping $10000 at the minimum.
Even those that do not come from pedigree may cost more than regular dogs. This is because they come from reputable breeders dedicated to rearing and training them. You’d have to pay for these added fees as well as document processing and transportation costs.
For information, it’s rare to see a greyhound in the market bred simply for human companionship. As such, if you’re not keen on the track and want to save money, consider greyhound adoption instead. You’ll still spend about $500 for fees, but it’s significantly less than purchasing a racer pedigree. You may even expend less by choosing a group that shoulders several payments, including vet and dental costs.
How Much Are Greyhounds?
Greyhound prices depend mainly on where you’re getting them from. Their age, genetics, and pedigree also add to their monetary value. To give you an idea of how much they cost, check out the details below:
Greyhounds From Reputable Breeders
Greyhounds from breeders cost more than other breed varieties. If you’re eager to purchase a canine from them, it’s best to prepare about $500 to $2500. Expect to pay more if you’re looking for one considered city-grade, which may cost you a minimum of $10000.
Some breeders may even demand $15000 or more for a greyhound with superior ancestry. This is because they’re spawned explicitly from parents with elite and exceptional DNA. Indeed, this may not guarantee them being champions on the race track. However, a better pedigree means better health, resulting in greater stamina during sprints.
Greyhounds From Adoption Programs
Greyhounds put up for adoption are mainly retired greyhounds who had their fill of racing. They’re looking for a forever home and may only cost you $50 to $500 for adoption fees. You’d find them safely housed in animal organization properties, rescue groups, or dog shelters.
Note that although the initial adoption fees are minimal, you’d still have to prepare money for the greyhound’s needs. You’re also responsible for the health bills and other maintenance fees needed to keep a pet. If you’re lucky, some organizations are willing to shoulder part of these expenses, mainly the dental cleaning and neutering of the dog.
Greyhounds That Are Given Away
It may be rare, but the occurrence of greyhounds being given away for free is possible. If you have the chance to get this breed without payment, it’s best to exhibit caution. This is because there’s a big chance the dog may be prone to diseases.
More often than not, unwanted canines have little to no vet visits. This is because trainers may consider them unfit for the track or have no potential to be champions. They may not be fully vaccinated against diseases and have little resistance to heartworms. As such, even though you get them for free, you may spend more covering health checks in the long run.
If this is not the case, then the owner may be getting rid of them to avoid extra work. Try to determine why the greyhounds are offered for free to prevent any potential problems in the future. Some fur parents simply like to give away their dog’s litter of puppies rather than sell them for a price.
How Much Does a Male Greyhound Cost?
A regular male greyhound may cost an average of $800 to $2500. This may increase to a maximum of $8000 if the canine comes from famous breeders and possess excellent lineage. It’s a hefty sum, so you should take your time whether you want to purchase a male dog.
To help you come up with a decision, check out the brief table below showing the pros and cons of a male greyhound:
Pros | Cons |
|
|
How Much Does a Female Greyhound Cost?
Due to their breeding potential, female greyhounds cost more than male ones. If you’re keen on buying one, know that they may cost $1000 upwards. The price might increase to a minimum of $3000 if it came from a superior pedigree and top ancestry lines.
This is by no means a small amount, so you should be a hundred percent sure if you’re purchasing a female. You should also consider maintenance costs, vet bills, and training. Look at the table below for the pros and cons of owning a female greyhound:
Pros | Cons |
|
|
How Much Is a Purebred Greyhound?
A purebred greyhound can cost anywhere from $500 to $2000. This can vary depending on several factors, most of which rely on the canine’s bloodline. The more genetically-endowed the parents are, the higher the selling price of the greyhound.
Remember, these dogs are bred to dominate the tracks. As such, breeders invest extra time in finding the perfect mating pair that will most likely conceive a stronger pup. This is especially the case for racing purebreds since they must pass several screenings to compete.
How Much Does a Racing Greyhound Cost?
The price for greyhounds already running for the track or ready to race depends on their ability and genetics. Greyhounds bred for racing and considered ‘city grade’ may cost $10000 at the minimum. This kind can compete for higher prize money, so they’re most likely to have greater market prices.
If you’re entering the track industry, it’s best to purchase an adult racing greyhound than raise a puppy to be one. It may cost you more at first, but this is because you’re also paying for the associated budget of rearing and breaking in. After spending the initial price, you won’t have to worry about major expenses and can even have the hound racing sooner.
Of course, although this is convenient, the method still has downsides. First off, it’s rare for sellers to put a potential champion up for merchandise. They’re more likely to sell the runts or those they deemed unable to win the race.
Second, if you buy an adult racing greyhound, you’re not its owner for the entirety of its career. This means that you haven’t supervised its growth and kept an eye on its training. This is crucial if you plan to take the canine home after its career on the racetrack.
How Much Does a Greyhound Puppy Cost?
Greyhound puppies are hard to come by in the market. However, if you encounter a breeder selling them, expect the price to range anywhere from $2500 to $15000. This may still increase if the one you’re eyeing out is show-quality or conceived from rare bloodlines.
You may even spend more money if you’re going to raise the pup into a potential champion yourself. For reference, here’s a table to give you a breakdown of expenses when buying a greyhound puppy:
Buying the Pup (3 months old or so) | Minimum of $2500 |
Rearing the Pup (3 to 14 months old) | Total of $2880 ($60 a week) |
Breaking In the Pup (14 to 16 months old) | Minimum of $400 ($100-$120 a week) |
These are only the initial costs; you’d have to prepare even more moolah when coaching the pup. For instance, you’re bound to allocate more than $1000 for pre-training the greyhound puppy for twelve weeks. You’d also have to be ready to cover medical expenses and trips to the vets for constant health checks.
If this seems out of your price range, try to get in contact with trainers offering a 50/50 deal. You’ll sign a contract detailing that all ongoing training fees and upkeep expenses are shouldered by the trainers. They’ll get half of the prize money your racing greyhound wins in exchange.
What Should I Look for When Buying a Greyhound?
If you’re buying a greyhound for racing, one of the main things to prioritize is pedigree. Of course, there’s no guarantee that champion parents would conceive a top-quality pup. However, it’s still relevant since superior genetics equals greater stamina and a fighting chance. This is especially true in the greyhound breeding industry.
For reference, greyhounds are bred to be racing dogs; it’s only logical to mate a pair that balances each other out. If the dam tends to start slow, raisers will match it with a male who is quick to start the race. Similarly, if the female is shorter, they’d mate it with a sire possessing a larger, more robust build.
Simply put, look for a greyhound with improved qualities than its progenitors. It’s a bonus if the parents have a few wins under their belts or those possessing superior attributes. Try to avoid buying a greyhound that is from a long line of non-winners or without standout genetics.
Aside from this, getting to know the greyhound’s breeder is essential before making a purchase. You don’t have to look for someone who is excessively famous or known to be a top breeder. Instead, find one that has extensive knowledge of raising and training greyhounds.
You’d want someone who is well-informed about the breed’s behavior. You should also choose a raiser with the best bloodline combination to conceive winners. With this, you’ll know you’re buying a top-quality greyhound with a considerable fighting chance.
On the other hand, if you’re buying a greyhound other than for racing, you can show a bit of leeway. You don’t need a canine with a superior pedigree, which means you can save significantly on expenses. Here’s what you should look for when buying a greyhound for a companion:
- Temperament. Greyhounds are generally docile, calm, and well-behaved in nature. However, you should find one with an attitude that matches yours. For instance, if you’re a fan of running around with other people, your pet should be welcoming of strangers.
- Age and Life Span. Greyhounds live for an average of ten to thirteen years. You should consider this when buying one, especially if you’re being offered a dog on the senior side. Similarly, a puppy may also be a lot of work, so choose a greyhound that is the right fit.
- Health. This is one of the deciding factors when buying a greyhound. Look for a healthy dog rather than one with a history of health issues. You should also aim for a canine with complete medical records, including vaccination and deworming history.
On top of all these, you should consider whether you’re ready to be a fur parent. Buying a greyhound is not a spontaneous decision but a lifelong commitment. You’d have to take care of the dog for the rest of its life and provide for daily needs. You must be sure of this before pushing through with the idea.
Where Can I Find a Greyhound?
There’s no shortage of greyhounds, especially in the United States. You can easily find them on the race track, in rescue groups, and in local shelters. No doubt you can also locate the right one on several greyhound adoption organizations in your area.
If you’re looking for an idea on where to start finding a greyhound, check out the National Greyhound Association. This is the official greyhounds’ registry, particularly those bred to be racing dogs. There’s also the American Kennel Club, public animal shelters, and humane rescue groups. There are plenty of sources to consider, so choose which one you’d like to explore.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a purebred greyhound meant for racing, contact a certified breeder. This may cost you more than regular adoptions, especially if you’re hoping for a trained champion.
Note: it’s best not to buy from breeders if you’re only looking for a companion.
Pet shops may also sell occasional greyhound puppies. However, this is highly discouraged since the dogs are primarily from pet farms. It’s best to stick to organizations and groups dedicated to canine welfare.
How Do You Adopt a Greyhound Puppy?
If you’re keen on adopting a greyhound puppy, be aware that you’ll have to be much more meticulous in choosing the right one. Your first step would be finding a reputable breeder or contacting a certified greyhound organization. Here’s the general rundown on how the adoption process should go:
- Step One: You Should Speak to the Breeder
- Step Two: Schedule Time for Meetup
- Step Three: Be Thorough About the Paperwork
- Step Four: Seal the Deal
Step One: You Should Speak to the Breeder
Before scheduling a visit, you should call and get some details regarding the puppy. This way, you’ll have a clear idea of what to expect and what documents to bring when sealing the deal. You’d also want to ask the person if they’re willing to show the whole puppy litter with their mom.
In fact, this is your chance to ask plenty of questions to get to know your potential greyhound puppy. You can also follow up on some details on the set appointment date. Here’s a guide to help you with your queries:
- How Old Is the Puppy? Pups below seven weeks old are not meant to be sold. They should not be separated from their mother, especially since it’s a crucial growth stage. As such, you should reconsider or delay your adoption if the pup you’re eyeing is not yet of age.
- Is the Puppy Weaned? One foolproof way to know if the dog is eligible for adoption is if it has been weaned off its mother’s milk. If it is still breastfeeding, then the puppy may still be too young. That, or the breeder is not well-informed about dog-raising.
- Is the Puppy Dewormed and Vaccinated? Puppies have worms from when they’re born. As such, the breeder should take it upon himself to deworm them from the age of two weeks and every two weeks after that. Vaccinations should also be arranged to prevent the pup from getting sick.
- Can I See the Mother? It’s important for you to check on the mother, especially when she’s with her pups. This will provide you with a clear idea of your potential puppy’s temperament. Also, note that the mother should not be less than a year old or elderly.
- How Many Litters Did She Have? Female dogs may experience a maximum of three heat cycles a year. However, this doesn’t mean she should have as many puppy litters as this. A proper breeder should never breed the mother more than four times in her lifetime.
- Has the Puppy Been Socialized? You should ask the breeder what degree of socialization the puppy has gotten so far. If the pup has been exposed to family interaction and everyday human noises, it’ll adjust easier to your new environment. Also, don’t forget to ask whether the puppy had an experience with children or other animals.
- Is It Possible to Return the Puppy? If you’ve deemed yourself unable to take care of the puppy, ask the breeder if they can take it back. A conscientious breeder will allow this if you provide a valid reason. You can also return the greyhound puppy if you’ve discovered any problems after an immediate vet checkup.
Step Two: Schedule Time for Meetup
After calling in the breeder and checking the pup’s details over the phone, it’s time for a meetup. Doing so will give you a chance to meet the puppy in the environment it grew up in. This is something that you should require before sealing the adoption process.
Of course, don’t forget to observe the puppy with its mother and littermates. You’ll find little cues on how it interacts with others and how energetic it is. You may even change your mind and find a better-suited pup from the litter.
Step Three: Be Thorough About the Paperwork
Greyhound puppies are a rare find in the adoption setting. Usually, retired racers are the ones being sold and marketed. As such, it’s vital for you to look over the pup’s paperwork to ensure that they’re not stolen.
You should also ask the breeder for a Kennel Club registration and a thorough health check report. This will provide you with the deworm and vaccination status of the puppy, which you will handle later on. In addition, the breeder should also be ready to disclose the full health history of the parents.
Don’t forget to ask the seller for a written agreement stating that the puppy can be returned within 48 hours of purchase. This will guarantee you can get your money back in case the pup has health issues. Also, inquire whether the greyhound puppy is covered by insurance in case of an illness under your care.
Step Four: Seal the Deal
If the breeder has completely provided the documents and you’re content with the greyhound pup, seal the deal. This doesn’t mean you have to pay or decide right after your visit. Take your time to weigh your options and determine whether you’re keen on raising a greyhound.
It’s best to do further research to know more about the breed. Consider the additional expenses it will take you to rear the canine for a lifetime. Don’t forget that adopting a pet is a decision you should consider with the utmost care.
Where Can I Adopt a Greyhound?
If you’re looking for places to adopt a greyhound, your best bet is to head straight to a greyhound adoption organization. You may also find some in pet rescue groups and local animal shelters. There are plenty of adoptable greyhounds available, so you don’t have to wait years to meet one.
For reference, adopting an adult is a more common occurrence than getting a greyhound puppy. This is because the breed is not meant for being house or lap dogs. Instead, they are selectively bred to race the tracks.
As such, you’ll most likely find greyhounds aged three to five years up for adoption. This is the period where they retire from their racing life and begin hunting for a forever home. Worry not, though, because the dogs are still in their prime and have a long life ahead of them.
If this seems right for you, you can find the ideal canine by visiting the National Greyhound Association’s adoption site. It will show you several greyhound groups organized by state. Simply select the right location and follow the procedure to begin your journey to greyhound adoption.
If you haven’t found the right pooch in the organizations mentioned, visit the local pet rescue center. Local animal shelters may also house the greyhound you’re looking for. Note: it’s best to ready verification papers and some cash in case you find the one you like.
How Much Is It to Adopt a Greyhound?
Adopting a greyhound is much more economical than buying one from a verified breeder. You’d only have to pay a minimum of $500 for the adoption fees so long as you’ve passed the screening. Some greyhound organizations even shoulder vet fees, dental checkups, and neutering.
However, don’t think the spending would end after you’ve finished the adoption process. You’d have to prepare a significant budget to ensure the greyhound will be comfortable in your home. To be safe, allocate more than a few bucks for their kibbles, leash, muzzle, and collar. Crate, bed, and various toys are also something you shouldn’t forget.
Health fees are also crucial, including regular deworming treatments and vaccinations. If you have the extra cash, opt for microchip implantation as well to prevent any missing incidents. All in all, expect to spend a thousand dollars for your greyhound adoptee.
How Much Is a Rescue Greyhound?
The average fee for a rescue greyhound that has retired from racing ranges from $300 to $500. If the canine is younger than two years, is cat-friendly, or is from another country, an additional $100-$200 is in order. On the other hand, if the dog is more on the senior side or classified as special-needs, you’ll be charged $100-$200 less.
You may find this pricey, especially since you’re adopting a rescue. However, the fee typically includes a full vet checkup, neutering, and dental cleaning. You may also get several freebies, including a leash, a collar with tag, shots, and parasite treatments.
Some organizations would even go as far as providing a microchip for your rescued greyhound. This is important, especially since you’re not adopting an ordinary house dog. Remember: greyhounds are sprinters, so they can run far in just a short period. A chip guarantees you’ll find the canine wherever they go and retrieve them accordingly.
Should I Buy a Greyhound?
Greyhounds may be low-maintenance, but there are still some things you should consider before buying them. If you’re contemplating adding these canines to your family, check out the table below to help you out:
Get a Greyhound if You Want a Dog Who: | Choose Another if You’re Not Keen on a Dog Who: |
|
|
Getting a dog is a huge decision; as such, you must be a hundred percent sure if you’re keen on doing so. Remember: it’s a lifelong commitment, so you must know the pros and cons of keeping a pet. Here are some of the benefits of getting a greyhound:
- Greyhounds Are Great Housemates
- Greyhounds Love Some Alone Time
- Greyhounds Are Adaptable
- Greyhounds Don’t Need Much Exercise
- Greyhounds Are a Healthy Breed
- Greyhounds Know How to Have Fun
Greyhounds Are Great Housemates
There are plenty of reasons why greyhounds are great housemates. First, they don’t have thick coats, meaning you won’t come home to your apartment with all furniture covered in fur. If you were to spend some hours housetraining them, you’d find the house as spotless as you left it.
Another thing to note about this large dog breed is that they generally exhibit cat-like characteristics. They’re content to lounge around their favorite spot for several hours on end, sleeping the day away. As such, you won’t have to worry about the neighbors complaining of noise since your greyhound will be quiet most of the time.
Greyhounds Love Some Alone Time
Some dogs can’t survive a short while without the presence of their owners. Not greyhounds, though – they’re perfectly content having the house to themselves for a bit of alone time. This breed has an independent streak, so you won’t have to worry if you will be gone for several hours.
They’re low-energy dogs, so expect them to stay out of trouble the whole period you’re away. Simply leave out a bowl of food, water, and their favorite toys, and they’re sure to have the time of their lives. Of course, don’t forget to walk them to potty before leaving to avoid discomfort and accidents.
Greyhounds Are Adaptable
It doesn’t matter what lifestyle you have; greyhounds have an uncanny ability to adjust to it. If you live in a house with plenty of space, your canine will enjoy sprinting and running around. They’re racing dogs, so they’ll surely appreciate a place they can move to the fullest.
Similarly, if you’re living in a tight apartment, the breed can also accommodate itself well. Though they’re bred for sprinting, greyhounds are known to be more on the calm, docile side. You can simply spend thirty minutes on their daily walk, and they can fit right on your couch.
They can also jive well with other family members, be it humans or other animals alike. Greyhounds are polite, mild-mannered, and easygoing. As such, you won’t have to worry about fights breaking out so long as you introduce them properly.
Greyhounds Don’t Need Much Exercise
Contrary to popular belief that greyhounds are rowdy, they’re actually serial couch potatoes. They don’t require much room to run around, and they definitely don’t sprint for the whole day. Instead, the breed is content with sleeping after a short walk or two.
Remember: greyhounds are bred to ace marathons. This means they’re not at a consistent energy high throughout the day. They have short bursts of energy that they can burn off if you were to give them a chance to run in a field from time to time.
Greyhounds Are a Healthy Breed
Unlike other breeds that are plagued with various ailments due to their genetics, greyhounds are robust. Generally, they won’t suffer from common diseases found in other dogs, like hip dysplasia. This is because they’re selectively bred; each came from strong, genetically-endowed parents.
Note that greyhounds are not considered lap dogs or house pets. Of course, they can adapt well to any household, but ultimately, they’re born for the track. As such, breeders are careful of their DNA and ancestry to produce champions. Expect this breed to live healthily at an average of ten to thirteen years long.
Greyhounds Know How to Have Fun
There’s no denying that greyhounds thrive on good quality sleep and alone time. However, if you’re planning to explore the outside world, expect the breed to be right by your side. They love to be part of any bonding activity, be it hiking, jogging, or simply running around your local park.
Also, greyhounds have a polite, gentle temperament. This makes them great at interacting with strangers and new pets. So long as you set them up early for socialization, the breed will get along with humans and animals.
Of course, no matter how great greyhounds are, the breed is not for everyone. Here are some of the reasons why you should hold up on buying a greyhound:
- They Still Shed. It’s true that they have short coats that don’t need much maintenance. However, greyhounds are still dogs that shed occasionally. If you have a respiratory condition or have an aversion to fur, the breed is not for you.
- Greyhounds Are Large Dogs. The breed is gentle and docile; however, they still get excited. In such times, they may inevitably knock down furniture or small children, especially when untrained. Additionally, they may seem intimidating with their habit of holding their ears back when stressed.
- They’re Not Immune to Messes. Although greyhounds are well-mannered, you still can’t get away with messes, especially when they’re sick. They may barf on your fancy carpet or get diarrhea during the times you’re out of the house. They’re also not dirt-proof, so you may get stains on your couch after a short walk.
- Greyhounds Are Indoor Dogs. The breed has thin fur and bony joints, so they’re unsuitable for the outside. If you’re looking for a pet you can station outdoors to watch the house, the breed is not for you. They get easily cold and would require a soft, padded place to rest in comfort.
- They Still Need Attention. While known to be a low-maintenance breed with a love for alone time, greyhounds still require adequate attention. As such, you should not get them if you have plenty of other engagements. You’d have to invest a lot of time getting them acquainted with your household, for daily walks, and training.
- Greyhounds Have Special Needs. Greyhounds are bred selectively, making them top-tier racing dogs. However, their genetics also come with a price: thin bones, fragile skin, and minimal body fat. As such, the breed would require more to meet their needs, including protection from hot and cold.
What to Know Before Buying a Greyhound
In general, getting a greyhound is more than just a spontaneous decision. You’d have to be aware of a few considerations if you truly want to thrive with this breed by your side. Here are some of the crucial things you should know before buying a greyhound:
- Greyhounds have to be taught about household dynamic
- Greyhound puppies are hyper
- Greyhounds are helpless against heat and cold
- Greyhounds like calm, quiet environments
- Greyhounds can both be laid-back and energetic
- Greyhounds are also prone to health concerns
- Greyhounds require proper sustenance and nutrition
- Greyhounds should be trained for socialization
- Greyhounds are emotionally sensitive
- Greyhounds are large dogs
Greyhounds Have to be Taught About Household Dynamics
Greyhounds are docile dogs; however, it’s still ideal to train them before bringing them home. This is especially true if you have other animals as companions, particularly small ones. The breed is known to sprint after little creatures due to its dominant instinct to chase after prey.
Aside from this, some greyhounds are also unfamiliar with household fixtures. This is because they’re most exposed to the outdoors due to being racing dogs. At first, they may have difficulty getting to the bottom of the staircase or accidentally run into the glass door.
Training and preparing them for household life will make it easier for the canine to adjust to their new life. You’d have to teach them about desirable behaviors while also eliminating any negatives they may have picked up. Greyhounds are intelligent, so they’ll learn about household dynamics in no time.
Greyhound Puppies Are Hyper
It may be rare for a breeder to market off a greyhound puppy outside of the race track. However, if you’ve come across one, be aware that the breed tends to be incredibly hyper at this phase. They have a lot of excess energy and curiosity to explore around the house.
This means you’ll have to exert extra effort to keep watch and ensure they’re not harmed. Puppies are also untrained, so expect a lot of challenges as a fur parent. You’ll likely have to deal with excretions and messy eating, so think about this before sealing the deal.
Greyhounds Are Helpless Against Heat and Cold
If you’ve seen greyhounds on TV or in person, you’ll find that they have very thin coats. This is normal since the breed has single-layer fur and possesses no undercoat. This makes them quite speedy but also very vulnerable to extreme temperatures.
As such, you should prepare their specific needs in both the summer and winter. Besides having long, thin bones, greyhounds don’t possess much body fat. For a tip, you should allocate some budget on thick foam beds and blankets to keep them warm.
Greyhounds Like Calm, Quiet Environments
Greyhounds are more cat-like than you may think. They have quite an independent streak and will demand a few hours of alone time to nap and recharge. It’s no wonder they prefer calm, quiet environments, especially if the space is warm and soft.
You should consider this before buying this breed as your lifetime companion. Unlike retrievers who thrive in a place bustling with activities, greyhounds prefer a quiet spot for napping. As such, ensure you have a proper setup before buying one of these couch potatoes.
Greyhounds Can Both Be Laid-Back and Energetic
Greyhounds are known for their calm, laid-back temperament despite their large sizes. This makes them ideal for fur parents looking for a companion that doesn’t require much outdoor space. You can simply leave the breed for hours on end, and it’ll happily lounge on the sofa.
However, there’s another side to the greyhound’s mellow personality. They’re bred to be sprinters, so they also love to bust out the door for a much-needed daily run. They can easily keep up with you on a short trek or a quick jog around the neighborhood.
You should keep this in mind when deciding to purchase a greyhound. It’s ideal to provide them enough time to burn off energy; else, you’ll find yourself dealing with an uncomfortable pet. To note, go on a walk to tire them out before leaving for work to ensure they’ll be on their best behavior.
Greyhounds Are Also Prone to Health Concerns
In general, greyhounds have healthy constitutions due to selective breeding. However, this doesn’t mean they’re immune to all dog illnesses. For instance, the breed is susceptible to conditions like osteosarcoma and gastric torsion.
Aside from these, the breed can also suffer from hypothyroidism, pannus, and hypertension. As such, it’s best to be prepared for specific health scenarios and invest in preventative care. Also, it’ll be beneficial if you learn the symptoms in case you’d have to bring your canine to the local vet.
Greyhounds Require Proper Sustenance and Nutrition
Greyhounds, especially adult ones, need a specific set of nutrition to stay strong and healthy. If you’re keen on buying one, you should know that dog food isn’t enough for a well-balanced diet. You’d need to purchase sustenance rich in fats, protein, and carbohydrates so that the breed stays in tip-top shape.
In particular, greyhounds would need extra fat on their diet to stay warm during the winter season. They’d also need raw, meaty bones to chew on to address their dental health. Note that there are also foods you should never provide, like avocados, macadamias, and chewing gums.
Greyhounds Should Be Trained for Socialization
The breed is known to be affectionate and loving but only to those they consider packmates. This is something you should be aware of when planning to purchase a greyhound. Of course, they’re polite to strangers but will also act shy and reserved around them.
As such, it falls on you to train them how to behave and teach them to play with other dogs. Greyhounds grew up with others of the same breed, so interacting with others may seem foreign. Similarly, a greyhound puppy should also be appropriately trained to socialize with others.
Greyhounds Are Emotionally Sensitive
Generally, dogs are in tune with their owners’ feelings and behaviors. This is especially the case for greyhounds, known to be emotionally sensitive. In fact, they’re delicate enough to throw up when there are loud arguments around them.
If you’re looking for a more resilient dog, then the breed may not be the right match for you. You’re required to communicate with them in a gentle manner, avoiding raised voices if possible. Also, greyhounds are jumpy and tend to be surprised when suddenly touched.
Greyhounds Are Large Dogs
When buying a canine companion, you should never neglect to look over its size. Greyhounds generally grow up to three feet (90 cm) in height and weigh 80 to 90 lb (36 to 40 kg). They may not be the biggest in the world, but they’re large enough to topple a full-grown adult if they were to run into them.
You should prepare an adequate indoor space for your greyhound to lie in. The breed is also quite fast, so you’ll have difficulty preventing damage if it goes into chasing mode.