10 Reasons to Adopt a Greyhound
#1 You can choose your ‘perfect’ pet
#2 Greyhounds don’t need much exercise
#3 Greyhounds don’t need much space
#4 Greyhounds are a purebred
#5 Greyhounds require minimal grooming
#6 Greyhounds are fashionable
#7 Greyhounds are just like other dogs (only better!)
#8 You will develop a new vocabulary
#9 You will become a member of an exclusive club
#10 You will become a crazy Greyhound person!
#1 You can choose your ‘perfect’ pet
Regardless of your requirements, there is a Greyhound to suit you. Because you’re adopting a dog rather than a puppy, they have already developed their individual personality and traits. Due to this, when you adopt a greyhound, you can select or be matched with a dog who meets your requirements, whether those requirements be based on your living environment, family structure, other pets, or activity level.
#2 Greyhounds don’t need much exercise
Due to their athletic reputation, many people (wrongly) assume Greyhounds need a lot of exercise. In general, greyhounds need very minimal exercise and are satisfied with a daily 30-minute walk or a few zoomies in the backyard or fenced area. If you do wish to go for longer walks or runs, their endurance can be built up over time.
#3 Greyhounds don’t need much space
Yes, Greyhounds are big, tall dogs. They also have the ability to curl up into a much smaller size. As they’re generally calm and easy-going indoors they take up less space than you may think. So long as you have room for a large dog bed or are willing to share your couch and/or bed, you have room for a greyhound! The same goes for outdoor space, Greyhounds don’t need a backyard. As long as you have somewhere to exercise, they have no problem with spending all their time indoors.
#4 Greyhounds are a purebred
Greyhounds have been selectively bred for hundreds of years. A greyhound’s bloodline can be traced back many generations and only the best examples of the breed are used for breeding purposes. As a result, Greyhounds are considered a healthy, robust breed that experience few of the health issues which affect other large dog breeds
#5 Greyhounds require minimal grooming
Greyhounds have a short coat that is easily groomed with a weekly brush and the occasional bath. Make sure you use mild dog shampoo and rinse thoroughly to stop any skin irritation. During winter don’t forget to give your dog some time without a coat or jumper to reduce skin dryness. They also don’t take on a strong doggy odour like other breeds.
#6 Greyhounds are fashionable
If you’re looking for a model or fashion accessory, you can’t go past a Greyhound. Their long legs and lean bodies not only make them model material, but they also mean that Greyhounds need clothes made specifically to suit their figures. Clothes are not just a fashion statement, they are also a necessity in cooler weather as Greyhounds have a short coat, no undercoat and very little body fat to insulate them in cooler weather.
#7 Greyhounds are just like other dogs (only better!)
Yes, your Greyhound may have had a different life experience than other breeds of dogs however they are still just a dog: loyal, affectionate, devoted, playful, sensitive and loving. They are used to being surrounded by their pack, whether that be their littermates or other dogs they train with. Your Greyhound will adopt you as their ‘pack’ and you will have a faithful friend for life!
#8 You will develop a new vocabulary
Unique dogs require unique descriptors for their quirks and eccentricities.
Starter kit for new adoptees:
- Roaching – some dogs impersonate a dead cockroach when they are relaxing or sleeping, lying on their backs with all four legs sticking up. When your hound assumes this position, take this as a compliment as it means they’re relaxed and trusting. Read more here.
- Zoomies – sporadic bursts of activity in the form of 40km/h hot laps, spinning, figure eights or leaping about. These sudden bursts of activity are short-lived and are usually followed by a long rest.
- Kennel butt – officially known as Greyhound-pattern baldness. Greyhounds are not overly hairy however they can get ‘worn’ patches which may never grow back even in the most comfortable home. Predominantly situated on the chest, rear end or backs of thighs. Also known as baboon butt or bald thighs syndrome.
#9 You will become a member of an exclusive club
Owning a Greyhound is your ticket to an exclusive club: The Greyhound Owners Club. People who adopt Greyhounds love meeting and talking to other Greyhound owners as well as trying to convince anybody who doesn’t have a Greyhound to adopt a Greyhound (or two)! If you have a question or concern there are lots of owners willing to share their knowledge, experience and understanding and you can connect with fellow Greyhound lovers online or in person.
#10 You will become a crazy Greyhound person!
Once you fall in love with a Greyhound you will always have a special place in your heart for these unique hounds. Other (non-Greyhound owners) may not understand or appreciate your obsession but other fellow crazy Greyhound people will understand completely! Each Greyhound has a unique personality and needs but all Greyhounds need a loving home and will be forever grateful for you providing that.