Gentle and Calm

Despite their speed, Greyhounds are known for their quiet, gentle temperament and tend to be very laid-back in the home. 

Low Grooming Needs

Their short, smooth coat requires minimal grooming, making them low-maintenance in terms of coat care. 

Good for Apartments

Greyhounds are surprisingly well-suited for apartment living due to their calm nature and low indoor activity level. 

Affectionate Companions

They form strong bonds with their families and are generally affectionate and loving pets. 

Exercise Needs

While they don’t need constant activity, Greyhounds do require regular, short bursts of exercise, such as running in a safe, enclosed space. 

Thin Skin and Coat

Their thin skin makes them sensitive to extreme temperatures, so they need protection from the cold and heat. 

Prey Drive

Many Greyhounds, especially ex-racing dogs, have a strong prey drive, which may make them unsuitable for homes with small pets like cats or rabbits. 

Separation Anxiety

Greyhounds can become anxious if left alone for long periods, as they are social animals that enjoy companionship. 

Exercise Needs

Greyhounds are sprinters by nature and enjoy short bursts of intense exercise, such as running in a safe, enclosed area. Despite their athleticism, they are low-energy indoors and only require moderate daily exercise. 

Walks

A couple of short walks per day, along with opportunities to run in a secure area, are sufficient to meet their exercise needs. 

Training

Greyhounds are intelligent but can be independent, so training requires patience and consistency. Positive reinforcement works best. Ex-racing Greyhounds may need extra training to adjust to home life, such as learning to climb stairs or understand basic commands. 

Purchase Price

$300 - $1,500 AUD for retired Greyhounds; purchasing from breeders may cost more. 

Initial Setup

Around $500 AUD. (crate, bed, toys, etc.)

Food

Approximately $800 - $1,200 AUD per year, as their size means they require more food than smaller dogs. 

Grooming

Minimal grooming costs, typically around $100 - $200 AUD per year, as they require only occasional baths and regular brushing. 

Vet Bills

Initial vaccinations, microchipping, and desexing can cost around $500 - $1,000 AUD. Ongoing annual check-ups and preventive care could be around $300 - $500 AUD per year. 

Total Lifetime Cost

Over a 10-14 year lifespan, the total cost of ownership can range from $20,000 - $30,000 AUD. 

Size and Weight

Greyhounds are tall, lean dogs, typically standing 68-76 cm (27-30 inches) tall and weighing between 27-40 kg (60-88 lbs), with males generally being larger than females. 

Coat

They have a short, smooth coat that is easy to care for. While they shed, it is relatively light compared to other breeds. 

Colour Options

Greyhounds come in a wide variety of colours, including black, white, fawn, blue, brindle, and various combinations of these. 

Temperament

Greyhounds are known for their gentle, calm demeanour. They are typically friendly, affectionate, and enjoy lounging around the house, although they can be shy or reserved with strangers. 

Good with Children

Greyhounds are generally good with children due to their gentle nature. However, as with any breed, supervision is recommended around young children, particularly due to the Greyhound’s size. 

Socialisation

Early socialisation is important, particularly for ex-racing Greyhounds, to help them adapt to home life and become comfortable with new environments and people. 

Indoors vs. Outdoors

Greyhounds prefer to live indoors with their families. Due to their thin coat and lack of body fat, they are sensitive to both heat and cold, so they should not be left outside for extended periods. 

Apartment Living

Greyhounds are surprisingly well-suited to apartment living due to their low indoor activity levels. They are quiet and generally well-mannered indoors but need access to outdoor space for regular exercise. 

Time Alone

Greyhounds can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. They do best in homes where someone is around much of the time or with another dog to keep them company. 

Common Health Issues

Greyhounds are generally healthy dogs but are prone to certain issues, including hip dysplasia, bloat (gastric torsion), arthritis, and dental problems. They also have thin skin, which makes them prone to cuts and scrapes. Special care is needed for their teeth, as they can be prone to periodontal disease. 

Guarding Ability

While they may bark to alert their owners, Greyhounds are not natural guard dogs due to their gentle and friendly nature. 

Affectionate Nature

Greyhounds are affectionate and enjoy being close to their families. They often enjoy lounging on the couch and cuddling with their owners. 

Suitability for Dog Parks

Greyhounds can get along well with other dogs, but care should be taken with small dogs due to their prey drive. Supervised play in enclosed areas is recommended. 

Climate Adaptability

Due to their thin coat and lack of body fat, Greyhounds are sensitive to extreme temperatures, particularly the cold. In colder weather, they will need coats or blankets, and in hot weather, they should be kept cool with plenty of water and shade. 

Ethical Breeding and Adoption Considerations

Many Greyhounds available for adoption in Australia are retired racing dogs. Adopting a retired Greyhound is a popular and ethical option, as these dogs often make excellent pets. Make sure to adopt from a reputable rescue organisation that provides proper care and rehabilitation.