Common Questions About Greyhounds
- Can greyhounds climb stairs?
YES! All of the dogs that live with us prior to adoption are taught to climb stairs. They can master stairs in a matter of a day or two, and since they sleep upstairs with us, they go up and down the stairs many times a day.
- Do greyhounds need a lot of exercise?
No. Greyhounds tend to be less active than other breeds. A short daily walk, or a chance to sprint in the yard is sufficient. They are often called "40 mph couch potatoes."
- Are greyhounds outdoor dogs?
No. Greyhounds have less body fat than other breeds, and cannot tolerate heat or cold in the same way other dogs do. Greyhounds appreciate a warm sweater for winter walks. They also need a soft bed or crate pad to sleep on.
- Do greyhounds make good guard dogs?
Generally, no. Greyhounds are sweet and gentle by nature and love being around people. They are rarely aggressive.
- Do greyhounds shed?
Yes, but generally less than other breeds. A greyhound has a short coat and needs only a quick brushing once or twice a week. They rarely have a "doggie" odor. Some owners say that their greyhound's feet smell like Fritos. Many people with allergies find that they can tolerate greyhounds quite well.
- Do greyhounds bark a lot?
Generally, no. Some greyhounds learn to bark from their interactions with other dogs.
- What is the average life expectancy of a greyhound?
Twelve to fourteen years!
- Why are racing greyhounds tattooed?
Racing greyhounds are purebred dogs that are registered with the NGA. The left ear tattoo contains the greyhound's registration number; the right ear tattoo contains their birth date. The greyhound racing data website contains detailed information about every dog's pedigree and racing history.
- Are greyhounds hard to house train?
No. Racing greyhounds are crate trained and generally learn not to potty inside very quickly. A 48" long crate is recommended for a retired racer.
- Can I let my greyhound run loose?
NO!!!! Greyhounds are capable of attaining great speed in seconds. They have little experience with cars. All responsible dog owners need to keep their greyhounds in a securely fenced area or on a leash at all times. Chaining a greyhound to a tree or dog run is dangerous. Invisible fences are cruel and ineffective.
- Do greyhounds have any health problems?
Retired racing greyhounds are athletes and tend to be healthy. Some older greyhounds suffer from arthritis, and benefit from glucosamine supplements. Some greyhounds develop tartar on their teeth. A good brushing several times a week can help tremendously.
- I have a cat. Can I adopt a greyhound?
Yes! While some greyhounds have a high prey drive and should not be around cats or other small animals, many low prey drive greyhounds get along fine with small creatures.
- All greyhounds are gray, right?
WRONG! Greyhounds were named not for their color, but for their slim build (gracillis in Latin means slender). Greyhounds come in a variety of colors, including black, brindle, white with spots, fawn, red and blue (gray).
Contact Kim at adoptagrey@ncweb.com for more information on adopting a retired racing greyhound.
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