Greyhound
This article is about the breed of dog; other articles cover the bus company, the cocktail, the cargo plane, the airline company, the British naval ships, and the standardbred horse.
| Greyhound
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| Alternative names
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| Country of origin
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| Egypt
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| Classification
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| FCI: | Group 10 Section 3
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| AKC: | Hound
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| ANKC: | Group 4 (Hounds)
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| CKC: | Group 2 - Hounds
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| KC(UK): | Hound
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| NZKC: | Hounds
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| UKC: | Sighthounds and Pariah Dogs
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| Breed standards (external links)
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This ancient canine breed traces its origins back to ancient Egypt where a bas-relief depicting a greyhound was found in a tomb built in 4000 BC. Historically, greyhounds have been used primarily for hunting in the open where their keen eyesight is a distinct advantage. It is believed that they were introduced to England in the 5th and 6th centuries BC by the Celts during their invasions. Changes in public opinion regarding blood sport has relegated the modern greyhound to parimutuel stakes racing.
Greyhounds are the fastest running of all dogs, with their long legs and lanky frames. They are commonly known for their use on the racetrack, where they can reach speeds up to 45 mph (72 km/h). The conditions under which racing greyhounds are kept are considered by some people to be inhumane. In the late 20th century many greyhound adoption groups began taking greyhounds from the racetracks when they could not compete and placing them in adoptive homes. Before this, most retired greyhounds were killed, some still are.
Some greyhounds never race either because they are too slow, have physical defects or do not have the required temperament. Most finish racing between two and three years of age.
Although Greyhounds are extremely fast dogs, they are not high energy dogs. They are sprinters and do not require much exercise once they leave the track. They are quiet, gentle animals. Greyhounds are often referred to as "Forty-five mile an hour couch potatoes."
Greyhounds make good pets because of their mild and affectionate character. They can get along well with children and family pets, including cats. Greyhounds are generally very loyal, tractable dogs with developed intellects. Their talents include sighting and hunting. They do not have undercoats and are considered "hypoallergenic."
Male dogs are usually 28-30 inches (71-76 cm) tall and weigh is around 65-80 pounds (29-36 kg). Females tend to be smaller with shoulder heights ranging 27-28 inches (68-71 cm) and weights 60-68 pounds (27-31 kg). Greyhounds have very short hair which is easy to maintain. There are approximately thirty recognized colors of which variations of white, brindle, fawn, fallow, black, gray, white, red, and blue can appear uniquely or in combination. Given their extremely low body mass index, these canids rarely require bathing. A gleam can be added to the coat by rubbing with a chamois cloth occasionally.
It is wise to keep them on a leash because their hunting background has instilled a strong desire to chase things. Greyhounds can live in an urban setting but require moderate exercise on a regular basis. They enjoy walking and running outside.
Closely related breeds include the Whippet and the Italian Greyhound.
See also Greyhound racing.
External Links
