Greyhound
The fastest dog in the world is also a big couch potato at home: the Greyhound is gentle, calm and very affectionate.
History and origins
The Greyhound is a very old British sighthound, bred to course hare by sight and later for greyhound racing.
Many retired racing Greyhounds are now adopted as companion dogs.
Temperament
Calm, gentle and quiet, the Greyhound spends much of the day asleep. It is affectionate and usually good with children.
Its chase instinct can be strong around small animals; it responds well to gentle training.
Health
This is a fairly robust breed. Like all sighthounds it is sensitive to some anaesthetics and carries little body fat, so tell your veterinarian. Bone cancer and dental problems are also reported.
Regular veterinary follow-up is recommended.
This is general information. For any question about your dog's health, consult a veterinarian.
Feeding
Good-quality food in two meals suits it; it should stay lean.
Avoid running straight after meals.
Exercise
It needs daily walks and, ideally, a few sprints a week in a fully enclosed area.
It tires quickly and enjoys resting.
In winter it needs a coat and a soft bed. Calm indoors, it can live in an apartment if walked daily and allowed to run safely from time to time.
Grooming
Its very short coat needs only a weekly rub with a grooming mitt.
Its thin skin is prone to scrapes and feels the cold.
