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Greyhounds

Jacque Lynn Schultz, C.P.D.T., Companion Animal Programs Adviser. National Outreach

Every year more people are discovering the joys of sharing their lives with retired racing greyhounds. The numbers have consistently climbed from 3,500 adopted in the early 1990s to over 18,000 just last year thanks to the efforts of over 200 greyhound adoption and rescue groups nationwide. The racing greyhound's adaptability has been the key to its success in the transition from athlete to household companion. The following information should make it easier to decide if a retired racer is the dog for you.

While most greyhounds have never lived in a home before, the average greyhound is housebroken within two weeks due to a life at the track which included a consistent turn-out schedule and kenneling in between exercise periods.
Physically large dogs (weighing 55-75 lbs.), most retired racers have already been trained to walk calmly at their handler's side and are a pleasure to take for a stroll.
An exercise regimen that can get them to a dog run or other fenced area for an aerobic work-out 2-3 times a week, beyond the three daily outings on-lead, will handily meet their exercise needs.
Their sleek physique built for speed does not allow for excess body fat, so they will need a coat to keep them warm in the winter and soft bedding (or upholstered furniture) to sleep on year-round.
Minimal body fat also puts them at heightened risk around herbicides, insecticides, and certain types of anesthesia. Consult with your veterinarian before exposing your dog to these potential dangers.
While life at the track did prepare them for crating and walking nicely on lead, it did not expose them to windows, patio doors, stairs or slippery floors. Dogs coming straight out of track adoption centers or rescue kennels may need help conquering these challenges from their new caretakers.
Greyhounds are sighthounds which means that if something catches their eye, they are apt to pursue it--at 35 MPH. Due to their speed and intense desire to chase, they must never be allowed off-lead unless the property is totally fenced.
Strong chase instincts can mean trouble for small animals. If you live with rabbits, cats or toy-sized dogs, make sure the greyhound you have chosen has been safety-tested around small animals. Always introduce a greyhound to other pets while the dog is wearing a racing muzzle and do not leave it alone with other small pets until you are 100% sure the greyhound is reliable.
Most greyhounds are terrific with respectful children. If your kids are young and boisterous, adopt a stable, unflappable dog. Avoid shy, sound-sensitive dogs.

Make a friend for life...
Adopt a greyhound