Greyhound insurance and breed information

Greyhounds are generally calm and well-mannered dogs. They can be a good companion for first-time dog owners, but make sure you consider the following:

Temperament – Greyhounds can have a high prey drive. This means they can chase smaller pets and animals. They are often best on a lead when in public.

Sensitivity – their sensitive nature lends them better to stable and quieter homes.

Buy or adopt - there are lots of retired Greyhounds looking for forever homes. Shelters can often help you find a Greyhound that suits your household. This is useful for first-time owners.

Greyhounds have a calm and gentle disposition and are good with older children. Young children can be more unpredictable and a little intimidating to them. They are happiest in quiet and calm homes.

Greyhounds can chase smaller pets, such as cats. If you are rehoming a retired Greyhound, they will have been socialised from a young age. This means they should be fine with humans and other Greyhounds. They may be wary of other breeds.

Greyhounds are not typically noisy dogs. It’s good to note that Greyhounds can learn very quickly. If you give them affection or food when they bark, they could associate the two.

Excessive barking could be a sign of pain or discomfort.

Greyhounds are typically bred for racing. Once they retire, they can often be found in rescues.  Adopting a Greyhound is a great way to give a dog a loving home. They often retire between the ages of 2 and 4, so you are still getting a young dog.

It is possible to buy Greyhound puppies from reputable breeders.  Greyhound puppies are high-energy, especially when compared to their adult selves.

Greyhounds have an independent nature and can be quite happy for a reasonable amount of time. It’s not recommended you leave any dog more than four hours at home alone. A bored or lonely Greyhound could become destructive.

Greyhounds love company, but it’s not always possible to be home with them. Learn the signs of separation anxiety and read our guide on keeping your dog happy when they’re at home alone.

Yes, Greyhounds can sit, but it can be uncomfortable for them due to their muscular legs. Training your Greyhound to ‘stay’ or go into a ‘down’ is often better for them.

Greyhounds need about an hour of exercise per day. As they prefer to use their energy in smaller bursts, a couple of shorter walks can work best. You can also play games with them at home.

Greyhounds are intelligent and independent which can lead to stubbornness. They can respond well to positive reinforcement when training.

Spend time on training recall with your Greyhound as they are prone to give chase. Due to their high prey drive, it’s best to keep your Greyhound on a lead unless in a secure fenced area.

Greyhounds need adequate exercise, but often like to snuggle up at home. If you can commit to their exercise routine, they can be happy in smaller homes and gardens.

Greyhounds can become destructive without enough mental and physical stimulation.