Greyhounds, often nicknamed “40 mph couch potatoes,” are one of the world’s oldest dog breeds. Originally bred for hunting, their speed and agility have made them racing icons. However, their true nature shines through in their calm and loving personalities.
A Brief History of the Greyhound
Officially, the documentation of Greyhounds is dated back to the time of Egypt and even the days of the Bible. Their metamorphosis from the hunting of hares and foxes to the thrill of racing on the track is proof of their speed and adaptability. Though the sport has evolved over the centuries, the Greyhound’s fundamental characteristics such as speed, agility, and focus have always remained the same.
The Appearance of the Greyhound
Greyhounds are fast animals thus they have a special sleek look. Their brawny bodies, broad breasts, and long legs are the best for their visual design for racing. They do not require as much time as other dogs, with a short, sleek coat that comes in a color palette that is varied.
Greyhound Personality
While their physical prowess is unrivaled, the Greyhounds are also extremely peaceful and gentle animals. Not only are they clever and obedient animals, but they also hope to live in a quiet home for the rest of their life. Despite their hunting background, they are not aggressive creatures and are very much the opposite. Like most dogs, they are a little energetic and then just want to relax the whole day.
Health Considerations
Greyhounds are usually healthy breeds, but just like any other, they have their own problems. Bone illnesses are a common feature of retired racing dogs due to their athletic build, which stresses the joints more than it should. On top of that, their deeper chests can make them more susceptible to bloat. One more important thing to keep in mind is the disease of the heart and cancer. In order to stay in good physical condition, regular health checks and a diet that is complete and free of supplements are mandatory.
The Greyhound as a Companion
The Greyhounds are of course brilliant companions because they easily entangle between their athleticism and love. At the same time, their calmness and good health make them most suitable for every different type of lifestyle. After they have finished their racing career, many of them find homes and adoption might be a good thing for someone.
If you’re thinking of adding a retired Greyhound to your family, be ready to love them, comfort them, and take them for a walk for a while. Nowhere else are they Fast, at home, though they only need a cozy couch to settle down and sleep on.
