What is a dog breed that is grey?
Greyhounds are a popular dog breed known for their fast running speed, slim build, and short grey coat. They make loyal pets and wonderful companions for the right owners. In this article, we will explore what makes greyhounds stand out as one of the most iconic grey dog breeds.
Brief History of Greyhounds
Greyhounds are an ancient breed believed to have originated in Egypt over 4,000 years ago. Images of smooth-coated sight hounds resembling modern greyhounds have been found on ancient Egyptian artifacts. Greyhounds are one of the first purebred dogs established by humans. Their speed and agility made them ideal for coursing small game and racing.
The breed spread throughout Europe and the Middle East where they were prized by nobility for sporting and companionship. Greyhounds first came to England in the 5th century BC and played a prominent role in early British culture. King Canute of England established laws protecting greyhounds in the 11th century. When Europeans began settling North America in the 1600s and 1700s, greyhounds came with them.
The modern greyhound emerged in England in the 1800s when the breed was refined for its speed through selective breeding programs. The Greyhound Stud Book was established in 1882 to document pedigree bloodlines. Around this time, commercial greyhound racing became a popular spectator sport which further increased the breed’s popularity.
Physical Characteristics
Greyhounds have a very distinctive appearance and build:
| Height | 27-30 inches |
| Weight | 50-70 pounds |
| Coat | Short, smooth, flat coat |
| Color | White, fawn, red, black, blue, or any of these colors mixed with white |
| Body | Long, slender, and muscular |
| Head | Long and narrow with a slight domed forehead |
| Ears | Small, folded back |
| Tail | Long, tapered |
The greyhound’s most identifiable feature is its lean, aerodynamic build that allows it to reach speeds over 40 mph during a race. Their long, powerful limbs and deep chest provide an expanded lung capacity needed for sprinting. Greyhounds are built for bursts of extreme speed and acceleration.
Their short, smooth coat comes in a variety of colors but is most commonly seen in grays from light silver to dark slate. White markings are present on most greyhounds, usually on the chest, toes, and tip of the tail. Greyhounds shed minimally and produce little oil in their coats, making them fairly low maintenance in terms of grooming.
Temperament
Despite their history as coursing and racing dogs, greyhounds are known for having a docile temperament. They are gentle, loyal, and eager to please their owners. Many people are surprised by how lazily greyhounds act at home since they picture them as hyper, high-energy dogs.
In reality, greyhounds are sprinters built for anaerobic bursts of energy on the race track. At home, they are content to lounge on soft surfaces for up to 18 hours per day. They enjoy the occasional walk or backyard sprint, but extended periods of vigorous exercise are unnecessary for greyhounds. Their needs can easily be met with a couple short daily walks and access to a safe, fenced area to run around.
Greyhounds tend to be peaceful with other pets when properly introduced. Their calm disposition makes them a good pet for families with children, though supervision is still required due to their size. Greyhounds are sensitive dogs that do not respond well to harsh training methods. Positive reinforcement brings out their cooperative nature. Overall, greyhounds make laidback, gentle pets once retired from the racing industry.
Care and Maintenance
Caring for a greyhound is relatively simple compared to other breeds. Their short coats require only occasional brushing and bathing as needed. Nails should be trimmed every few weeks. Teeth brushing and dental checkups are important since greyhounds are prone to periodontal disease.
Greyhounds are somewhat sensitive to extreme heat and cold due to their low body fat and short coat. A warm coat is recommended for cold weather walks. Access to shade and plenty of fresh water is important in warm climates. Greyhounds should be housed indoors with their family.
A high quality commercial diet formulated for large, active breeds is best for greyhounds. Two or three small meals spaced throughout the day helps avoid gastrointestinal issues. Treats should be given in moderation since greyhounds are at risk for obesity due to their muscular build and low activity level.
Greyhounds also require special consideration when it comes to housing and exercise needs:
- Fencing should be 4-6 feet tall and securely enclosed with no gaps to prevent escape.
- A soft dog bed should be provided since greyhounds have little body fat and are prone to pressure sores.
- Access to a safely fenced area is ideal for daily sprints and playtime.
- When exercised, greyhounds should always be kept on a leash unless in a secured fenced run.
- Muzzles should be used when greyhounds are walked in public since they have a strong prey drive and may chase small animals.
With attentive care, greyhounds can live happily as pets in retirement for 12-15 years. The key is providing enough daily activity while also giving them plenty of quiet time to rest and sleep.
Adopting Retired Racing Greyhounds
Many prospective owners choose to adopt retired racing greyhounds through adoption groups associated with greyhound racetracks. Adopting a retired racer has several benefits:
- Adoption fees typically range from $100 to $300, much less than purchasing a greyhound puppy.
- Most retired racers are between 2-5 years old, past the destructive puppy stage.
- Retired racers are professionally trained and used to being handled.
- The adoption group can match you with the right greyhound based on your lifestyle and home environment.
The biggest consideration with adopting an ex-racer is that their background and habits are largely unknown. Adoption groups make every effort to temperament test the dogs and provide adopters with information on the dog’s personality and quirks. Patience and consistency are required initially as the greyhound transitions to life as a pet. But ultimately, most retired racers adapt quickly to a home environment.
Finding Greyhound Puppies
For those set on getting a greyhound puppy, finding a responsible breeder is key. Potential breeders should be willing to provide documentation verifying the parent dogs are registered purebred greyhounds screened for hereditary diseases. Reputable breeders focus on breeding healthy, sound greyhounds and will not allow puppies to go to their new homes until 8-10 weeks old.
Expect to be put on a waiting list, as quality breeders only produce one to two litters per year. Be prepared to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000 for a greyhound puppy. Raising and training a greyhound puppy requires significant time, patience and consistency. Obedience training starting early and continued throughout puppyhood is strongly recommended.
Greyhound Breed Restrictions
Due to their size, high prey drive, and history as racing dogs, greyhounds do face certain breed restrictions. Some homeowners insurance companies may refuse coverage or charge increased premiums for greyhounds.
Many apartments and condos expressly prohibit greyhounds and other large dog breeds. Laws regarding breed bans also exist in some cities and municipalities. Prospective owners should thoroughly research any local housing or legal restrictions before committing to a greyhound.
Conclusion
Greyhounds offer wonderful companionship to those able to provide for their unique needs. Their gentle nature, minimal grooming requirements and undemanding exercise needs make them an appealing choice for many seekers of laidback, loyal pets. Thousands of retired racing greyhounds are looking for loving homes through adoption groups across North America.
For active owners able to provide proper containment and exercise, greyhounds can thrive as pets. Their historic racing lineage gives them an iconic, immediately recognizable look appreciated by dog lovers everywhere. Those willing to put in the effort to locate responsible breeders can also find greyhound puppies for sale.
With their regal yet sweet nature, greyhounds stand out as a top choice amongst medium-large sized breeds ideal for families or singles. Their short grey coat and unmistakable build sets them apart as one of the most dignified and recognizable dog breeds around.
