The Greyhound - the fastest four-legged friend with a lot of love
A four-legged friend that can go like the wind (uh, dog) on one side and can also be a cuddly companion on the other? The Greyhound is often underestimated due to its former sole use as a racing dog on the racetrack.
What the dog breed →Greyhound brings in terms of character traits and special features in training and care, we explain to you here.
The Greyhound in Portrait
Origin: Great Britain
Size: 68-76 cm
Weight: 25-34 kg
Life expectancy: 10-14 years
Character: sporty, affectionate, balanced
The Greyhound as a Racing Dog
Since the Greyhound is one of the fastest animals in the world, it is hardly surprising that it has been used for dog racing as an attraction since the 16th century. Later, with the help of the oldest dog breed in the world, a whole industry developed that was worth billions and still attracts many interested parties today.
However, the focus on optimized speed in breeding becomes a curse for this special four-legged friend: those who show declining performance in old age are sorted out, and the killing of Greyhounds is even legal in some countries. Therefore, organizations and associations that specialize in the rescue and placement of those Greyhounds that retire after a successful racing career are all the more important.
Character and Nature
Due to its friendly, loving, and loyal nature, it is hardly surprising that the Greyhound is finding its home with more and more families rather than on the racetrack. As much energy as it displays as Speedy Gonzales running through the woods, it is equally relaxed and content with its family on the sofa.
Its balanced nature allows the Greyhound to enjoy many hours of sleep during the day. However, once it is in sprint mode, its tendency for movement comes to the fore. It is extremely sociable with people and animals.
Training and Care
Although the four-legged friend is more than satisfied with its favorite people around, the urge for movement should not be underestimated. Especially in its younger years, the Greyhound is drawn to fields and meadows, where it would love to run freely. Since hardly anyone can keep up with it in terms of speed, it is advisable to let it run only in fenced areas, on a →long leash, or when the furry friend has been →well trained. During training, the Greyhound is a very cooperative companion and can be trained very well with sufficient endurance and calm.
The agile furry friend is a versatile dog and adapts to various living and life situations - it is therefore also perfect for families with children. However, due to its affectionate nature, it can be challenging to leave it regularly alone for extended periods.
