Greyhound
An Elegant Dog With Ancient Heritage

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Background and Description

The Greyhound is a sleek and graceful dog with the sharpest vision of all the sighthounds and a keen intelligence. Knowledgeable sources date the origins of the breed to about 8,000 years ago, through the discovery of cave paintings depicting their likeness.

Some later evidence - about 4,000 years ago - revealed very similar dogs found in Egyptian tombs.

Ultimately, it is believed that the dogs made their way to England with the help of the Celts during the early 11th century. Arrival in America came around 1500.

The Greyhound was originally used in the sport of coursing hares and there are stories that Cleopatra kept greyhounds for such use.

Today, this breed, considered by many to be the fastest dog in the world, is involved in racing. These beautiful dogs make wonderful pets and many are available through adoption organizations.

Appearance:

Height: 18-20 inches Weight: 48-55 lbs.
Color variations: Double-coated in gray with black tips, although it can be just gray or black, with the latter being quite rare.

Coat and Care:

Owners who don't grooming part of dog care, will enjoy the easy maintenance of this short, dense coat which just needs some routine brushing and an occasional bath.

Personality and Traits:

This dog is a gentle soul with a lot of dignity. If they are adopted after a life on the racetrack, they may appear more reserved as a result of being raised with a pack of dogs - usually in a kennel. Likewise, if they have become accustomed to living in a pack "order", they will be looking for their leader, or "alpha dog". If you don't take on this role, they will by default!

Personality among these hounds may vary - some more outgoing than others, but in general they are very loyal and loving and bond with their owners quite strongly. They are known to have high intelligence and housetraining is not normally a problem, but because they are also sensitive in nature, a gentle approach works best.

Activity Level:

Obviously this hound likes to run. In fact, this breed needs regular daily exercise and if you happen to be a jogger, you've got the ideal buddy. If, not try to find some open space where you can exercise this magnificent dog.

Space Needs:

Not fussy about space - apartment or house will do. Back yard or access to outdoor area ideal.

Children:

The Greyhound has a reputation for getting along very well with most children. As with any dog play involving children, supervision by an adult is always recommended.

Elderly:

Very loyal dog and would be a good companion for the elderly, if they can provide some daily exercise.

A Tribute To Jenni

Jenni, my caring neighbor, passed away November 11, 2007, in the prime of her life. She was a strong supporter and member of the Greyhound Rescue. Her own rescued dog, Derick, that was so beloved by her, died shortly before Jenni's health challenges began.

What a joyous reunion Derick and Jenni must have had at the Rainbow Bridge before they happily crossed over together. God bless them both.

Footnote: Today many organizations are trying to help change the sad plight of Greyhounds involved in the racing industry. Others are doing their best to find homes for as many retired dogs as they can. You may wish to learn more about this at www.greyhounds.org.

Book Recommendation:

A great book for those seriously "into" the breed. Covers their history in ancient Greece and Rome; connections to the courts of royalty; resurgence of popularity in modern times; activity in the show ring; and about the breed as a companion.






Those who adopt an ex-racer have spared an intelligent, elegant dog from either immediate destruction or eventual destruction in a research laboratory, but if the adopter does not know how the dog was trained, fed and cared for during its track life, and how to modify or change these practices, then the result will be an unhappy owner. This book covers everything you need to know to have a successful adotpion and having fun with your new dog. Also includes a list of all the Greyhound adoption centers nationwide.

Share Your Dog Pictures

A great way to share photos of this gentle and elegant dog
as well as all your family photos.
Give it a "free" try - you'll be glad you did!

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