As you are already browsing around this site it is a reasonable assumption that you may be interested in having an ex-racing greyhound as a pet. This page is aimed at those people who are interested in adopting a greyhound into their family.
A very undemanding pet; they are suitable for many people from families to older people.
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Do they need a lot of Exercise?
No. A couple of 20 minute walks per day or one walk of 30-40 minutes depending on your circumstances. Don't expect these walks to be fast - once settled in to a routine a walk with your greyhound is best described as a 'leisurely stroll'. |
| People have told me they are aggressive and that's why they wear muzzles - is that right?
No, greyhounds wear muzzles as part of the rules of racing. Once a greyhound is a pet then it no longer needs to wear one (unless local bye-laws exist). We provide a muzzle with any greyhound that we home for a number of reasons. We recommend that you keep your dog muzzled out on walks until it has settled in and you understand your dog. If introducing your dog to new situations / other dogs a muzzle is advisable. Also, when you first leave your dog on its own it may become stressed and want to chew. This advice would be true for any dog that you adopted not just greyhounds. Muzzles aren't cruel - they are just a sensible precaution. |
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Can they ever live with a cat?
Some can, but some can't. If you have a cat then please let us know and we can work with you to find a greyhound that is cat 'trainable' and give you plenty of relevant advice. |
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Are they very different from other breeds of dog?
No, but like any breed of dog they have their own characteristics. If you understand this and that they have lived a very different life in racing kennels so need time to adjust, you should be fine. |
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What are your homing policies?
The only 'hard and fast' rules we have are that you must be over 18 years old, have any appropriate permission and not be banned from keeping animals. Other than those we judge each situation on its own merit. Our prime consideration is that the greyhound is safe, well cared for and loved. If you have a concern about an aspect of your life then either call or email us to talk things through. We also do a home visit for all potential adopters which is an opportunity for you to discuss practical issues and for us to offer advice. |
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I work long hours can I still have a greyhound?
We don't recommend that any dog is regularly left for more than 4-5 hours. If you have a reliable and trustworthy neighbour or friend who could spend some time with your greyhound then that may be an option. There are also companies around who will provide dog walking services on a professional basis. |
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Can I ever let a greyhound off the lead?
Greyhounds are 'sight hounds' whose sense of chase has been encouraged as part of their racing training.When running at full speed they can be oblivious to your vocal commands and more importantly, to surrounding dangers such as a road or barbed wire fence. For that reason we recommend that they are only let-off the lead in a safe and secure area. It is also important to remember your responsibilities as a dog owner, and be aware of any local by-laws and the laws relating to the control of your dog. |
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Are they good with children?
It is essential that when introducing any dog into a home where babies and small children are present, special care is taken. There is no exception with a greyhound. Children and babies should never be left unattended with the dog. Children must be educated to be calm and gentle with the dog and have respect for its needs and its bed. An escape place is an excellent idea so when the dog has had enough, it can retreat to its own space.
Greyhounds are people orientated, gentle, placid and docile but all breeds have a breaking point when taunted by children. Please teach children respect for your dog and soon they will be best of friends. Never let a child disturb a dog when it is asleep. |
