Greyhound

Good to know

• Chase by sight: as sighthounds they may bolt after anything that runs, so most need a leash or a securely fenced area.
• Sprinters, not marathoners: they love short bursts of running, then happily lounge on the sofa for much of the day.
• Feel the cold: with thin skin, little body fat and a short coat, many need a coat in cold weather and a soft bed.
• Gentle and quiet: typically calm and sweet-natured indoors, and the short coat is easy to groom.

Getting out with a Greyhound

Daily walks and some play keep them content. A mix of park time and easy trails suits them.

Common health considerations

Inherited conditions to ask your vet about

• Bloat/GDV
• Osteosarcoma
• Anesthesia sensitivity
• Hypothyroidism

Common issues

• Bloat
• Dental disease
• Thin skin - prone to cuts

Bloat (GDV) risk: high. A swollen belly with retching but nothing coming up is an emergency: go to a vet straight away.

Not every Greyhound will have these. Good breeders screen for inherited conditions, and your vet can advise on testing and check-ups.

Explore more breeds in the Hound group