The Australian Greyhound Fernando Bale earned fame in 2015 when he set a world record, completing a 515-meter race in just 29.12 seconds at Angle Park, South Australia.
Greyhound
Think fast, because these puppies are quick on their feet! The Greyhound is an elegant, athletic, and gentle breed with a long history that dates back to ancient civilizations. Yes, even Cleopatra had one! Curious to learn more? Keep reading.
Country of Origin
Egypt
Breed Group
Hound
Height
Male 71-76 In
Female 68-71 In
Weight
Male 27-40 Ib
Female 25-34 Ib
Life Span
10-14 years
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In a Nutshell
Greyhounds are known for their grace and speed, but their true charm lies in their gentle and affectionate nature. With the right training and care, these dogs make loyal and loving companions. Don’t worry, even though they’re elite athletes, Greyhounds are surprisingly calm and affectionate, making them excellent family pets and cuddle buddies.
Life With a Greyhound
Low (1)
High (5)
Energy level
Trainability Level
Amount of Shedding
Tendency of Barking
Exercise Needs
Kid Friendly
Pet Friendly
Looks & Personality
You’ll know a Greyhound as soon as you meet one, because this breed is instantly recognizable by its lean yet muscular, aerodynamic build and long, slender legs. Their deep chest highlights their athleticism even more, while their short, smooth coat comes in a wide range of colors, including black, white, fawn, and brindle.
Despite their reputation as high-energy athletes, Greyhounds are surprisingly relaxed at home, often earning the nickname “45-mph couch potatoes”. They’re gentle, affectionate, and eager to please their families.
Common Health Problems
A Greyhound’s frame is built for speed, with a lean, aerodynamic structure and powerful muscles. Their deep chest allows for optimal lung capacity, while their long legs and flexible spine enable them to sprint up to 45 mph.
A tip from a vet
Greyhound dogs are prone to some health issues, such as bloat and dental problems. To keep your Greyhound healthy, ensure they receive regular check-ups and maintain a proper diet and exercise routine.
A tip from a trainer
This tip depends on what your training goals are and whether you aim to raise a well-behaved pet or a racing champion. Generally speaking, training a Greyhound requires patience and positive reinforcement. Early socialization and gentle, consistent training will help them adapt to family life and minimize any problematic behaviors from their racing days, such as chasing small animals.
Did You Know
Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling adopted a rescued Greyhound named Sapphire in 2007, making headlines when she donated £1,000 to the shelter instead of the standard £30 adoption fee.
Greyhounds were beloved by Ancient Egyptian royalty, including Tutankhamen and Cleopatra.
Greyfest is an annual event in the United States celebrating Greyhounds and their owners. It promotes Greyhound adoption and provides a fun gathering for enthusiasts.
In The News
The History Behind the Breed
It seems like Greyhounds have been around forever. Their history spans over 4,000 years, making Greyhounds one of the most ancient dog breeds. Their origins are often associated with Ancient Egypt, where they were adored by pharaohs for their speed, elegance, and hunting skills. Historical artifacts, including tomb carvings and paintings, often show Greyhounds by the sides of Egyptian rulers. Yep, they were “Instagrammable” even back then!
The Romans brought this breed to Europe during their travels, where they were also appreciated by many for their speed, agility, and gentle nature. It seems that everywhere they went (or ran), Greyhounds won the hearts of local royalty.
In more modern times, Greyhounds became synonymous with racing, especially in the 20th century. As more and more countries rightfully banned dog racing, the breed became known mostly as beloved, adaptable family pets.
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