13 Things to Know Before Bringing Home a New Greyhound

3. Greyhounds Need Exercise

Greyhounds may be couch potatoes in the house, but they still need regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. A daily walk or run in a secure, fenced area is important for their physical and mental well-being.

4. Greyhounds May Have Special Needs

Greyhounds may have unique health needs due to their history as racing dogs. They may be prone to conditions like hip dysplasia and osteosarcoma. It is important to research potential health issues and work closely with a veterinarian to keep your Greyhound healthy.

5. Greyhounds Are Sensitive Dogs

Greyhounds are sensitive dogs and may be easily startled by loud noises or sudden movements. They may also be sensitive to certain types of food or medications. It is important to provide a calm and consistent environment for your Greyhound and consult with a veterinarian before making any changes to their diet or medication.

6. Greyhounds May Need to Help Adjusting to a Home Environment

Greyhounds may need help adjusting to life in a home environment, especially if they are used to living in a kennel. They may be hesitant to go upstairs or walk on slick surfaces. It is important to provide a safe and comfortable environment for your Greyhound and be patient as they adjust to their new surroundings.

7. Greyhounds May Have Separation Anxiety

Greyhounds are social dogs and may experience separation anxiety if left alone for long periods of time. It is important to provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation and consider enrolling your Greyhound in doggy daycare or hiring a pet sitter if you will be away from home for an extended period of time.

8. Greyhounds Can Be Trained

Greyhounds are intelligent dogs and can be trained with positive reinforcement techniques. They may be slower to learn than some other breeds, but with patience and consistency, they can excel in obedience and agility training.

9. Greyhounds May Benefit from Professional Training

Some Greyhounds may benefit from working with a professional dog trainer, especially if they have behavioral issues like separation anxiety or aggression. Look for a trainer who has experience working with sighthounds and can provide positive reinforcement training techniques.

Check out the Best 7 Online Dog Training Programs here.

10. Greyhounds Can Benefit from Pet Insurance

Greyhounds may be prone to certain health conditions, and pet insurance can help cover the cost of unexpected veterinary bills. Consider researching different pet insurance options and choosing a plan that meets your Greyhound’s specific health needs.

Tip: This free tool lets you compare pet insurance prices across all the major carriers.

11. Greyhounds Have Unique Grooming Needs

Greyhounds have short, sleek coats that require minimal grooming. They do shed, however, so regular brushing can help keep their coat shiny and healthy. Greyhounds also have sensitive skin, so it is important to use mild shampoo and avoid over-bathing.

12. Greyhounds Are Loyal Companions

Greyhounds may have a reputation as racing dogs, but they make loyal and devoted companions. With proper training, socialization, and care, your Greyhound can become a cherished member of your family.

13. Make Sure These Products Are On Your Shopping List!

Bringing home a new Greyhound can be overwhelming, so we compiled a comprehensive list of every product you’ll need for your new Greyhound here.

FAQ for First-Time Greyhound Owners

1. Are Greyhounds good with children?

Greyhounds can be good with children, but it is important to supervise interactions and teach children how to interact with dogs in a safe and respectful manner. Greyhounds may not have experience with children, so it is important to introduce them slowly and carefully.

2. Do Greyhounds get along with other pets?

Greyhounds can get along with other pets, but they may have a strong prey drive and be prone to chasing after small animals. It is important to supervise interactions and provide a safe and secure environment for all pets.

3. How much exercise does a Greyhound need?

Greyhounds need daily exercise, but the amount of exercise they need can vary depending on their age, health, and activity level. A daily walk or run in a secure, fenced area is important for their physical and mental wellbeing.

4. Do Greyhounds make good apartment dogs?

Greyhounds can adapt to apartment living, but they still need regular exercise and mental stimulation. It is important to provide a safe and comfortable environment and ensure that they have access to outdoor exercise opportunities.

5. Do Greyhounds have health issues?

Greyhounds may be prone to certain health issues, such as hip dysplasia and osteosarcoma, due to their history as racing dogs. It is important to work closely with a veterinarian to ensure that your Greyhound stays healthy and receives appropriate medical care.

6. How can I help my Greyhound adjust to a new home?

Greyhounds may need help adjusting to life in a home environment, especially if they are used to living in a kennel. Providing a calm and consistent environment, plenty of exercises and mental stimulation, and patience as they adjust can help them settle into their new home.

7. How can I train my Greyhound?

Greyhounds can be trained with positive reinforcement techniques, such as clicker training and reward-based training. Enrolling your Greyhound in obedience or agility classes, or working with a professional dog trainer, can also be helpful for training.

8. Do Greyhounds need pet insurance?

Greyhounds may be prone to certain health conditions, and pet insurance can help cover the cost of unexpected veterinary bills. Consider researching different pet insurance options and choosing a plan that meets your Greyhound’s specific health needs.

9. Can Greyhounds be left alone?

Greyhounds are social dogs and may experience separation anxiety if left alone for long periods of time. It is important to provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation and consider enrolling your Greyhound in doggy daycare or hiring a pet sitter if you will be away from home for an extended period of time.

10. How can I groom my Greyhound?

Greyhounds have short, sleek coats that require minimal grooming. Regular brushing can help keep their coat shiny and healthy, and it is important to use a mild shampoo and avoid over-bathing to prevent skin irritation. Additionally, it is important to trim their nails regularly to prevent discomfort and injury.

11. Can Greyhounds live with cats?

Greyhounds may have a strong prey drive and be prone to chasing after small animals, including cats. However, with proper socialization and training, some Greyhounds can learn to coexist peacefully with cats. It is important to supervise interactions and provide a safe and secure environment for all pets.

12. What is the lifespan of a Greyhound?

The lifespan of a Greyhound can vary depending on their health and medical history, but they typically live for 10-14 years. It is important to work closely with a veterinarian to ensure that your Greyhound stays healthy and receives appropriate medical care throughout their life.

Conclusion

Bringing home a new Greyhound can be a rewarding and enriching experience, but it is important to be prepared for their unique needs and characteristics. From their exercise requirements and prey drive to their sensitive skin and potential health issues, Greyhounds require a thoughtful and attentive approach to care. By taking the time to educate yourself and prepare your home, you can provide your Greyhound with a safe, happy, and fulfilling life as a loyal companion. And don’t forget to consider pet insurance and dog training to help ensure that your Greyhound receives the best possible care and support.