Should I Adopt a Greyhound? 🏠

By Dr. Duncan Houston BVSc

Hello—I’m Dr Duncan Houston BVSc, veterinarian and Ask A Vet founder. Greyhounds are often retired race dogs who make loving, low-key family pets. If you’re considering adopting one, here’s everything you need to know:

1. Temperament & Personality

• 🐶 Gentle & calm retired racers are used to being handled, crate-trained, and calm at home.
  
  
• 📏 Low aggression & quiet, Greyhounds rarely bark or show aggression, including around children and strangers.
  
  
• 🐕🦺 Velcro dogs—they stick close, crave companionship, and enjoy gentle affection.
  
  
• 🏃Prey-driven—fast chase instincts, so manage carefully around smaller pets.

2. Exercise & Activity Needs

• ⚡Burst speed, low endurance—capable of 40+ mph sprints but prefers lounging.
• 🚶Minimal daily exercise—usually happy with a 30–40 min walk plus short runs.
• 🛋️20+ hours of rest—they love downtime and napping.

3. Home Preparation Essentials

• 🛏️ Soft bedding & crate—retired greyhounds are used to cozy crates and soft surfaces.
  
  
• 🌡️ climate comfort—thin coats make them sensitive to hot and cold; use sweaters or coats as needed.
  
  
• 🦴Veterinarian familiar with breed—they have specific anesthetic and blood-test sensitivities.
  
  
• 🔗 Secure fencing and leash walking—prevent escapes or chasing of small animals.

4. Health & Lifespan Considerations

• ❤️ Generally healthy—though watch for breed‑specific issues like osteosarcoma, gastric torsion, corns on paws, and anesthetic risks.
  
  
• ⏳Average lifespan ~11–12 years—with good care, they enjoy long, happy retirements.

5. Adoption Path & Integration

• 🏁 Generally retired at 3–5 years old.
• 📘 Adoption preparation—many groups recommend “Retired Racing Greyhounds For Dummies” for owners.
• 🐾 Meet-and-greet process—include other pets, children, and foster time to assess fit.

6. Life with a Greyhound: Owner Insights

• 😴 Low maintenance lifestyle—won’t help you get fit—you won’t move, they’ll nap!
• 🦷 Sleep startle caution—can snap if disturbed suddenly while sleeping; educate children accordingly.

📌 Final Vet Thoughts

Adopting a retired racing Greyhound can be a sweet, low-stress addition to your family, especially if you’re looking for a gentle companion who loves lounging and brief walks. They require breed-specific care and secure living spaces, but in return, offer an affectionate and calm presence. With proper prep and understanding, they thrive as delightful apartment or house pets. 🐾❤️