Spanish Greyhound
Summary
The Spanish Greyhound — _Galgo Español_ — is an Iberian sighthound of great antiquity, probably descended from Sloughis brought to the Iberian Peninsula during the Muslim conquest, crossed with Celtic sighthounds already present in the region. Historically it was the breed of Spanish nobles and hunters, used primarily for hare coursing. It is distinguished from the Greyhound by a different conformation: higher hindquarters than forequarters, flatter musculature (adapted for endurance), and a narrower and longer head. It exists in two coat varieties: smooth and rough (wiry coat).
Physical Characteristics
- Size
- Medium to large
- Height (male)
- 62–70 cm
- Height (female)
- 60–68 cm
- Weight (male)
- 25–30 kg
- Weight (female)
- 20–27 kg
- Life Expectancy
- 12–15 years
- Coat
- Two varieties accepted by the FCI — smooth (short, fine, dense) and rough/wiry (similar to rough hair); the smooth variety is the most common
- Common Colors
- All colors accepted — fawn, brindle, black, brown, red, cinnamon, white, and their respective combinations with white markings
Temperament & Personality
The Spanish Greyhound is a dog of gentle character, affectionate with the family and naturally reserved with strangers. It has more energy and a more playful spirit than the racing Greyhound, being also more curious and active. At home it is calm and discreet; outdoors it is an enthusiastic runner and chaser. Due to its history of frequent neglect and abandonment in Spain (a cultural reality that rescue organizations actively combat), adopted galgos may need time for adjustment and rehabilitation.
Activity & Exercise
- Energy Level
- Moderate to high
- Recommended Daily Exercise
- 30–60 minutes
Grooming & Care
- Grooming Needs
- Low to moderate
- Shedding
- Low to moderate
- Bathing Frequency
- Every 12–16 weeks
Health
- Common Health Issues
- Anesthesia sensitivity
- As an endurance breed
- Generally very healthy (working breed)
- Muscular injuries
- Osteosarcoma
- Spanish Greyhounds have good longevity when well cared for
- Recommended Health Tests
- Always inform the veterinarian of anesthesia sensitivity
- Cardiac and hip evaluation in breeding stock
Compatibility
- With Children
- Good
- With Other Dogs
- Excellent
- For First-Time Owners
- Recommended
