Read About Grey Hound

Grey Hound is the fastest dog in the world and is often used for racing, but they also make good house pets. Here's everything you need to know about this dog breed.

Grey Hound - Dog Breed Facts

1. AKC Group:

   Hound Group.

2. Size & Weight:

   27-30 inches tall; 60-70 lbs in weight.

3. Coat:

   Short and close. Firm in texture.

4. Head & Muzzle:

   Narrow and long head with long muzzle and wide top skull. The eyes are dark and the ears are small.

5. Body:

   The shoulders very slanting followed by deep chest and straight forelegs. The ribs are well sprung and the loin is well muscled. Tail is long and tapering finely. It curves upwards slightly towards the end.

6. Colors:

   All colors including black, red, fawn, white, mixed or solid are allowed.

7. Life Expectancy:

   10-12 years.

8. Popularity:

   Their popularity as a family pet is very slow to pickup. AKC rank: 134

9. Habitat:

   They are suited for small yards at least. But can do just fine in apartments so long as necessary exercise is provided.

Grey Hound - Dog Breed Origins

1. Country of Origin:

   Egypt

2. Lineage:

   They can be traced back to their ancestors of very ancient Egypt.

3. Date Admitted to AKC:

   1885

4. Historical Information:

   Evidence show these dogs had existed since 2900 B.C in Egypt. They were used to hunt deer, fox and elk. These are the fastest dogs in the world and are nowadays used in dog racing apart from as watch dogs and household pets. They came to America as early as the 1500 AD.

Grey Hound - Dog Breed Defining Characteristics

1. Training Ease:

   Medium to difficult. These dogs can be sometimes difficult to train unless trained from young. And it is better to follow a single routine. Early socialization is a must.

2. Temperament:

   These dogs are gentle and loyal. Intelligence is inborn and so is the hunting instinct. Early socialization will prevent timidity and aggression towards small creatures. They are lively and love to run. They are gentle and usually well behaved.

3. Child Friendly:

   Well trained dogs are tolerant of children, but are not suited for young children.

4. Behavior:

   They do not bark often and tend to be inactive indoors.

5. Habits:

   These dogs instinctively chase anything that runs or moves fast.

Grey Hound - Dog Breed Concerns

1. Health Issues:

   Hemophilia, eye problems are common issues.

2. Feeding:

   Large meals will cause bloating. Feed 2-3 smaller meals instead.

3. Exercise Needs:

   Establish a regular routine, for these dogs prefer routines. Allow them to run in open space apart from daily walks.

4. Grooming Needs:

   Very simple grooming needs. Brush and comb with a firm bristle regularly. Bathe only when needed. Clip the nails regularly. Use chamois to give the coat bright shine.

5. Special Household Needs:

   Regular dog needs are enough.

6. Travel Needs:

   Carry water flask and water pan along.

7. Getting Along With Other Pets:

   Do not let smaller pets near him. Proper training can make him tolerant of home pets, but always supervise.

Grey Hound - How to Choose your Dog Breed

1. What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:

   Check the parent's certification as hereditary diseases are likely. The temperament should never be aggressive. The pups too like to run around.

2. What you will Need for a New Puppy:

   Usual puppy needs like brushes, balls, beds, etc.

3. Puppy-Proofing your House:

   Block corners where they may get stuck behind furniture, etc. They are sensitive to insecticides, so take extreme precaution in that matter.

4. How to Make your New Puppy Feel at Home:

   Do not handle the pup too much. Always be attentive to its behavior and let it settle on its own.