Greyhounds as pets.......
Contrary to popular belief greyhounds make very good pets. They do not need huge amounts of exercise They love a good run if the opportunity arises but will happily walk on the lead, if not.
If you are thinking of adopting a dog please consider a greyhound
Some reasons to choose a greyhound:
- The average age of a retired greyhound is around 4 years old although we often have very young dogs who have not made the grade at all. Greyhounds often live into their teens. Middle aged dogs make great pets for retired people
- Temperament wise they are docile, laid back and very gentle
- They do not pull on the lead
- Two twenty minute walks (on the lead) a day are enough. They require less exercise than the average dog a
- Because they are tall and short haired they tend not to get very muddy. They require little grooming
- Greyhounds can and do live with other pets, including cats
- Greyhounds make wonderful lapdogs!
Frequently asked questions:
How old are greyhounds when they start to race?
A greyhound starts to trial for racing approx 16-20mths old
What is the life expectancy of a greyhound?
They live between 13-15 years
How big do greyhounds grow?
They can vary from24-30 inches to the shoulder
What do greyhounds eat?
A greyhound has been fed a diet of raw meat and vegetables during their racing career. While in the care of Greenfields they are converted over to a dry dog food so the protein level is dropped to about 18-20% and it is divided into two meals per day
Are greyhounds suitable to live with children?
Most greyhounds that have raced have had limited exposure to children, though they are a very gentle breed. Due to the inability of young children to understand dog safety Greenfields do not home with children under 5years old.
Why do greyhounds race with a muzzle on?
The muzzle stops any altercations during the race. There are eight dogs running who are unfamiliar to each other, this combined with the thrill of the chase, could lead to unpleasant encounters. The muzzles get placed on the greyhound from a young age so he soon gets used to wearing it.
How do greyhounds cope with cold or wet weather?
Greyhounds have very little fur so they will need a blizzard coat for wet or winter conditions.
Can greyhounds swim?
Yes, they can swim but it depends on the dog if he likes water or not. Many don't but sometimes you get a real water baby who just loves to splash around!