How do they adapt?
Greyhounds love
people, in fact more than most breeds, and tend to be quite sociable.
They have been handled a great deal during their early years by dog
walkers, trainers, veterinarians and others. Many trainers are
women who bring their children to work, so the dogs frequently have been
exposed to children of all ages.
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What is their demeanor?
Generally greyhounds are quizzical, sometimes shy, very
sensitive and surprisingly gentle. They possess superior
intelligence, and can exhibit a quiet but surprising independence.
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Are they nice?
Greyhounds are used to traveling and adapt quickly to riding in
cars. Greyhounds do not typically bite but sometimes show
affection as a wolf does with mouth agape, gently grasping. They
will lick your hand, too. They show affection with their whole
body and may rub up like a cat or lean against you.
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The Greyhound's Physical Characteristics
Greyhounds have no fat layer on their bodies which makes them
sensitive to winter cold or rain. If outside for more than a short
time in bad weather, they should be protected with a coat. No dog
should be left outside in the cold. They are not barkers by
nature, but will bark if excited or trying to tell you something like
needing to go out.
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8000 Years
Animal anthropologists generally agree that the Greyhound-type
dog is one of the seminal canine breeds from which virtually all
domestic dogs descend. They can be traced back over 8000 years
through early cave drawings and decorative artifacts. The
distinguishable modern Greyhounds are descendants of an ancient
identifiable breed that goes back to the Egyptians and Celts.
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Greyhounds Worshipped
The Egyptians worshipped Greyhounds as a god and frequently
showed them on murals in the tombs of kings. In old England -
You could tell a gentlemen by his horses and his Greyhounds.
Old paintings and tapestries showing hunting feasts frequently included
Greyhounds.
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Greyhound Legend
Legend has it that Cleopatra had coursing Greyhounds and Greyhounds
are the goddess Diana's hunting hounds. Modern history has been
replete with famous Greyhound owners including Frederick the Great,
Prince Albert, and Generals Von Steuben and Custer.
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Given their past lives, how long do
they take to bond with people?
Greyhounds are very friendly and thrive on human companionship.
Bonding is usually accomplished in a matter of days.
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Do they housebreak easily?
The greyhounds crated life is conducive to easy housebreaking
because they are accustomed to being let out to relieve themselves
several times a day. Almost all ex-racers are "kennel trained" - they do
not "mess" where they live.
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Are Greyhounds good with other
pets?
Greyhounds are friendly by nature and socialize well as a result of
their exposure to other greyhounds at the racing kennels. However,
common sense must be exercised during the introductory period and with
regards to food, treats, bones or special toys. Feeding separately is
always recommended in any multi-pet household.
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How about cats?
At least 90% of track greyhounds can be
placed with cats and live peacefully together. It is important, however,
to follow the advice of your adoption counselor.
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Why do greyhounds have to
remain on a leash?
Every responsible dog owner keeps his dog on a leash,
regardless of breed, near roads or moving hazards.
Since greyhounds are "sight hounds", and can see almost 1/2
mile away, they may quickly run after something you cannot
distinguish. With speeds over 40 miles an hour in a matter
of seconds, it would be quite easy for them to get lost.
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Are females
better pets?
NO! Males and females make equally good
companions and housetrain equally fast. The females are
generally much more independent and the males are somewhat
more affectionate; but, if you speak with other greyhound
owners, they will confirm there is not a lot of difference.
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Do
greyhounds require a lot of exercise?
They enjoy but are not dependent
on moderate exercise. They can make good jogging partners
after proper conditioning. In most households, the shared
experience of a brisk walk is enough to keep both the walker
and the greyhound fit and healthy.
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Are
greyhounds hyperactive?
NO! The most common
misconception about greyhounds is that a dog which is
capable of great athletic skill is a dog who must be in
perpetual motion. In reality they are quite lazy and enjoy
lounging with the family. (Does the term "Couch Potato"
explain it better?)
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