Greyhounds are known for their gentle nature, loving disposition and snoozing expertise. But that’s not all; every hound is an individual, with different characters, likes and dislikes and varying activity levels. Whether you’re looking for a calm companion or a playful family member, there is sure to be a greyhound for you.
There are, however, some important things to know about when considering adoption.
Living in a home – what’s that?
Your home is most likely to be the first your greyhound has ever seen. Things like the TV, hoover, fridge, stairs, glass doors – indeed, almost everything, will be new and your new companion will need time to learn and adjust. Understanding and patience from you are key as they navigate their new world.
Do I need a Garden?
Yes. Only in exceptional circumstances will we home a greyhound to a property with no garden. You don’t, however, need a large garden, just a secure one. With boundaries that your greyhound can’t jump or get through, even if it sees a squirrel waving at it.
Home alone?
We home our dogs to be companions and members of your family. Time alone should be built up very slowly once the dog has settled into its new environment to prevent separation anxiety. Greyhounds love routine and company – if you work, you will need to consider coming home at lunchtime or finding a family member or dog walker to provide some attention and a toilet break.
Is that a cat?
Greyhounds are trained to chase, so anything small and furry is likely to get their immediate attention. Some can live with cats, but many cannot. Even if they can, you will need patience and diligence to make the situation work.
What about children and other dogs?
Whereas some hounds prefer a quiet life, others will be happy to be part of a busier family or multi-dog household. Children need to be old enough to understand what they can and can’t do around the new family member; never disturbing a sleeping dog, never attempting to take a toy away, and never teasing are key lessons. Making sure simple rules are followed is very important.
While some ex-racing greyhounds haven’t been around children or other breeds of dogs in their racing career, they are generally very adaptable and sociable.
How long will house training take?
Greyhounds are naturally clean dogs, so not long. Early accidents in the house are usually due to stress about being in a new place. The kennel team will provide you with information on how to housetrain quickly and easily.
Time for a walk?
Yes, please – every hound is different, but at least two 30-minute walks per day will suit most. Younger or livelier hounds will be happy to do more and join you on fun days out. We advise that all greyhounds be on a lead unless in a fully enclosed, fenced area, such as a garden or dog exercise field. Do not use extendable leads and make sure the dog wears a muzzle until you are confident of its behaviour around other dogs, cats and wildlife.
Is dinner ready?
Two meals a day fed in a raised bowl will keep your hound happy, along with tasty and healthy treats! Feed the best quality diet you can afford. We sell our own grain-free food and will provide advice on feeding amounts and other recommended foods. It’s essential to keep your hound at a healthy weight and maintain clean teeth.
I am over 70. Can I adopt?
Age isn’t an issue for adoption; it is about whether you can give the greyhound the loving and secure home it needs and provide enough exercise and fulfilment.
I live in a flat. Can I adopt?
If it’s a ground-floor flat with a private garden or access to a communal garden space, we will consider it.
I rent. Can I adopt?
Yes – with written permission from your landlord.
Anything else I need to know?
If you have any specific questions, please contact us. We have homed over 2600 greyhounds since we started, so we will likely know the answer!
Owning a greyhound is a joy, but like all new experiences, it takes time for things to feel natural and easy. We are here to help at every stage. Time invested in the first few weeks of ownership pays huge rewards in the months and years that follow. So be kind, establish routines that your greyhound can learn, and be consistent. You will be well rewarded.
