Greyhound Puppies and Dogs

Elegant. Fast. Graceful.

These best describe the racehorses in the dog's world; Greyhounds are heralded as the second fastest runner in the animal world.

Traces in History
Greyhound dogs' first evidences were found engraved in the tombs of the Pharaohs and African tribal leaders dating back to 4000 BC. These showed that greyhound dogs appear quite similar with the modern day breed- only differing on some physical profile.

Not only did the Egyptians honor the antiquity of this breed, but Alexander the Great also owned one named Peritas. Argus, Odysseus’ dog is also a greyhound. The gods and goddesses of the ancient mythology were normally portrayed with images of this breed. Shakespeare, in his writings also referred to these dogs.

Ovid, a great Roman writer in 43 BC-14 BC also wrote down in his works about greyhound dogs, differing only in his description of the coat as compared with the modern day breed.

Kings like Henry VIII of England and Charles V of France were known to have the images of these dogs engraved on their coats of arms. Greyhound dogs had become the status symbol in the Great Britain within the early 11th century and only the nobles had the privilege of owning them.

General Characteristics
The greyhound puppies and/or dogs are intelligent. They are quite easy to train (more info on training). However, once they have set their eyes on prey, they will not easily respond to commands. This obviously shows their stubbornness and unwillingness to follow yet this stubborn streak is only shown frequently.

Greyhound dogs are acknowledged as the most athletic dog breed, they don't necessarily need to have rigorous exercise. 40 to 60 minutes of daily work may be enough. So if you have one or are planning to adopt this breed, you need to have a considerably high fence because they are excellent jumpers. Also, keep watch when you have your dog in public, as they may to race anything that moves, prey or not. Their maximum speed is about 40mph (64 km/hr).

From Greyhound puppy stage on up, they are very sociable indoors and they are known to have a low tendency for aggression. They also make an ideal family pet and are apt to enjoy companionship with children. What child wouldn’t ant to have a Greyhound puppy. They are well behaved and very affectionate with their families.

This breed can get along well with others but cat owners must exercise caution. These Greyhounds are fairly gentle and can be lazy at times but their natural instincts in hunting and racing are always present.

General Profile

The standard of the Greyhound profile is as follows:

The head must be narrow and long but the distance between the ears should be considerably wide. The jaws must be strong and the muzzle must have fairly good length. The teeth must be strong and not have any sign of disintegration while also having an even bite.

The ears should be generally small. In normal conditions, the ears must be set back and folded against the back of the head and neck. When the dog is alerted, the ears should be semi-pricked.

The neck must be muscular and long, but should not show hints of throatiness.

The chest area where the heart and lungs are located will be considerably more developed to accommodate their natural ability for racing and speed. Therefore, chest is wide and deep.

The back must be muscular and extensive.

The shoulders must be oblique and muscular but should not have the appearance of coarseness.

The forelegs must be perfectly straight.

The feet should have the resemblance to that of the hare; they must be close and hard.

The tail should be fine, long, and slightly tapered down the tip.

Its coat is generally short and smooth.

There are no exact descriptions as to color as this breed appears in a wide range of color and color combinations.

Ailments and Illnesses
Greyhound dogs can be very prone to injuries, especially leg injuries, due to naturally activity. They are sensitive to drugs, skin irritations, and esophageal complications.

Lifespan
On the average, greyhound dogs live up to 12 years old. But racers have an average lifespan of 7 years. The injection of steroids is pointed to as one of the factors leading to their short life span.

Grooming
Greyhound dogs are fairly easy to groom and maintain. An occasional combing of their coat is sufficient enough.

Feeding Requirements
Greyhound dogs do not eat much.

Greyhound puppies might be right for you but the price could make you think twice. However, with most all pure breeds, the price will be high. Another option could be adoption which may seem to be very ideal. As with other breed cases of adoption, the owner must be ready to exercise maximum care for his pet. Don’t let this avert you, some of the best dogs I have had were adopted. Most adoption centers will educate the prospective owner effectively for the successful future ownership of a Greyhound or other breed.

For more information on Greyhounds visit Greyhound puppies and dogs. Training your Greyhound or other dog will help both of you towards a more fulfilling relationship. See more information by going to Dog Training.