Sleek, Silent & Super Fast: Meet the Greyhound: A Perfect Family Pet

When it comes to speed, grace, and a gentle nature, few dog breeds can match the Greyhound. As the fastest dog in the world, these elegant hounds can reach speeds of up to 72km/hour, yet they're famously known as 'couch potatoes' who need less exercise than most dogs. That’s right - they're built for speed but are surprisingly calm and mellow indoors.

Why Greyhounds Make Great Family Pets

Greyhounds are non-aggressive and have a calm temperament. They'd rather walk away than snap or growl, making them excellent companions for families. Their gentle nature and quiet demeanor make them ideal for households with children and other pets. 

Perfect for Aussie Homes

Despite their impressive size, Greyhounds are surprisingly adaptable. They're great for apartments and urban living, thanks to their low exercise needs and quiet nature. They also require minimal grooming, making them a practical choice for busy Australians.

Greyhounds are known to sleep most of the day, and they're excellent with families. Whether you're living in a city or the suburbs, a Greyhound can easily become a special member of your household.

Greyhound Origins and Traits

Greyhounds are the oldest, purebred, domesticated dog breed, with a history dating back over 8,000 years. They’ve been depicted in ancient Egyptian art and even mentioned by William Shakespeare in more than 11 of his plays. They have also been referenced in Greek and Roman mythology and are the only dog breed mentioned in the Bible.

Male Greyhounds stand 76 cm tall and weigh between 27–31 kg, while females are slightly smaller, standing 71 cm tall and weighing 27–29 kg. They come in a wide variety of colors - with 18 recognised colors as well as a combination of these.

Essential Items for Greyhound Owners

While Greyhounds are low-maintenance in terms of exercise, they still need the right gear to stay comfortable and safe. Here are some must-have items for any Greyhound owner:

- A martingale collar: A great choice for Greyhounds due to their slender necks. It tightens slightly when they pull, preventing them from slipping out, while still being gentle and comfortable. Look for a soft, adjustable martingale collar made from breathable materials for everyday use like this one here and here.

- Soft, Supportive Bed: Greyhounds love to nap and they can sleep up to 18 hours a day! Invest in a plush or orthopedic dog bed that supports their joints and provides comfort. A memory foam or cushioned bed is ideal for their long legs and sensitive joints. We love the Snooza Calming Cuddler here and the Ultra Comfort Lounge here for our Grey.

- Grooming Essentials: Although Greyhounds have short coats and can require minimal grooming, a soft brush and pet wipes can help keep them clean and fresh. A deshedding tool may also be useful during shedding season. We have a great  range here

- Comfortable Clothing: Some Greyhounds enjoy wearing dog sweaters or jackets, especially in cooler weather. Look for breathable, lightweight options that allow for freedom of movement. As your dog ages, you may also find greyhound specific boots become useful to support their sensitive feet during walks. 

Greyhound Adoption in Australia

Many retired racing Greyhounds in Australia are now finding loving homes. A number of adoption agencies exist who can help begin the process of bringing a greyhound into your home. The process is a thorough one, ensuring the right dog ends up with the right family.

Whether you're considering adopting a Greyhound or just curious about this amazing breed, there's no doubt they're a unique and fascinating addition to any home. Reach out to us if you have any questions. Our greyhound has been with us for nearly 7 years and we are more than happy to share the highs of owning one of these beautiful dogs.