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Are Greyhounds Good for First-Time Owners? Read Before You Get One

Nicole Cosgrove Profile Picture

By Nicole Cosgrove

two greyhound dogs at home

Many people are drawn to Greyhounds for their gentle and loving nature. They are often thought of as the perfect first pet for someone who has never owned a dog before. While they do make excellent companions, there are some things potential owners should be aware of before taking the plunge.

With some patience and effort, a first-time dog owner can have a great experience with a Greyhound. Read on to learn more!Divider 4

General Temperament

One thing that makes Greyhounds good dogs for first-time owners is their temperament. Greyhounds are very loyal to their family and make great companion dogs. They are gentle souls who love nothing more than snuggling on the couch. Although they do enjoy going for walks and running around in the yard, they are just as content lounging around the house.

Greyhounds have a laid-back personality. They are not hyper or yappy like some small breeds of dogs. They are also very calm indoors, which makes them ideal for apartments or houses with limited space. Greyhounds are also very intelligent and easy to train.

greyhound dog with the female owner outdoors
Image Credit: Spaskov, Shutterstock

Overall Size

When it comes to size, Greyhounds are unique in that they are one of the few breeds that come in such a wide range. This is due to the fact that they were originally bred for hunting purposes and needed to be able to take down a variety of prey, from rabbits to deer.

The typical adult male Greyhound stands between 27 and 30 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between 65 and 70 pounds. Females are typically between 25 and 28 inches tall and 55 and 65 pounds. Some male Greyhounds can reach up to 36 inches tall and weigh as much as 80 or 90 pounds, but this is not the norm. Most racing Greyhounds fall into the medium category, with some on the larger side and some on the smaller side.

Exercise

It’s no secret that dogs need exercise, but how much do different breeds need? For example, a small dog like a Chihuahua might only need 20 minutes of exercise a day, while a large dog like a Greyhound can require up to two hours.

So how much exercise does a Greyhound need? Ideally, they should get around 30 to 45 minutes of moderate exercise every day. This could include a leisurely walk or some playtime in the backyard. If you’re short on time, you can break up their exercise into two or three shorter sessions throughout the day.

While Greyhounds are bred for racing and have lots of energy, they’re actually quite lazy when it comes to everyday life. So as long as they get some form of exercise each day, they’ll be happy campers.

You should also be careful of letting them off-leash in an unenclosed area. Even if they are well trained, they may see something that looks like prey and take off after it. If you are not careful, your Greyhound may end up injured or lost.

male runner running with dog greyhound on leash city race
Image By: sportpoint, Shutterstock

Lifespan

The average lifespan of a Greyhound is 10–12 years, although some may live up to 15 years. They are relatively healthy dogs with few genetic health problems. Some common health problems include arthritis, hip dysplasia, and intestinal parasites. Greyhounds that are well-cared for and have regular veterinary check-ups can often live longer than those that do not.

Diet is also an important factor in a Greyhound’s lifespan. Proper nutrition is important for Greyhounds as they are susceptible to weight gain, which can put a strain on their joints and muscles. Greyhounds should be fed a high-quality diet that is designed specifically for them. They also need regular exercise to keep them healthy and fit.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, Greyhounds make excellent first-time pets. They are gentle, loving, and low-maintenance dogs that are perfect for families or individuals who are looking for a laid-back companion. If you are considering adding a Greyhound to your home, be sure to do your research and adopt from a reputable source.


Featured Image Credit: EmForry, Shutterstock

Nicole Cosgrove Profile Picture

Authored by

Nicole is a lover of animals of all sizes but is especially fascinated with the feline variety. She’s the proud mom of Baby, a Burmese, and works every day so he can relax in the sunshine or by the fire. She’s always had a cat in her home and has spent countless days with others, observing behaviors and softening up even the grouchiest of the lot. Nicole wants to share her kitty expertise with you so you and your cat ...Read more

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