Greyhound
Summary
The Greyhound is the fastest dog in the world, capable of reaching 69–72 km/h at top speed, and the archetype of the modern sighthound. With a history spanning thousands of years — representations of this silhouette appear in engravings from Ancient Egypt and classical Greece — it is a breed refined over centuries for speed competitions and hunting. Today it is also known as "the racing greyhound" and is widely adopted as a companion animal after the end of its sporting career, proving to be an exemplarily calm and affectionate companion.
Physical Characteristics
- Size
- Large
- Height (male)
- 71–76 cm
- Height (female)
- 68–71 cm
- Weight (male)
- 27–40 kg
- Weight (female)
- 25–34 kg
- Life Expectancy
- 10–14 years
- Coat
- Very short, smooth, dense, and slightly rougher to the touch; practically no undercoat
- Common Colors
- Virtually all colors — black, white, red, blue, fawn, brindle, dun, and their respective combinations
Temperament & Personality
The Greyhound is frequently described as "the cat of the dog world" for its independence and love of comfort. At home it is surprisingly calm, non-destructive, and rarely barks. With the family it is affectionate, gentle, and discreet; with strangers it is reserved but rarely aggressive. Despite being the fastest dog in the world, it is not a high-energy dog — it prefers rest interspersed with brief, intense bursts of speed. The chase instinct is very strong and it should never be let loose in open space without a fence.
Activity & Exercise
- Energy Level
- Moderate
- Recommended Daily Exercise
- 40–60 minutes
Grooming & Care
- Grooming Needs
- Very low
- Shedding
- Moderate
- Bathing Frequency
- Every 6–8 weeks
Health
- Common Health Issues
- Anesthesia sensitivity
- Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV — less frequent than in larger breeds)
- Hereditary polyneuropathy (linked to the NDRG1 gene — DNA test available)
- Osteosarcoma
- Physiologically atypical blood values (elevated red blood cells, low platelets, low T4)
- Post-surgical fibrinolysis syndrome (delayed hemorrhage)
- Recommended Health Tests
- Always inform the veterinarian that the Greyhound's normal values differ from standard references
- Genetic test for polyneuropathy
- Hip evaluation
Compatibility
- With Children
- Good
- With Other Dogs
- Excellent
- For First-Time Owners
- Recommended
