What's the inside story on greyhounds as pets?

They’re wonderful dogs, and absolute couch potatoes.

Remember that that they’re trained to chase small furry things; we’ve seen 2 at our hospital that have died instantly by running into a tree while chasing a squirrel (sight hounds are not known for their intelligence). Rescues are temperament tested for coexisting with cats, but I always worry about a momentary slip if the cat is running.

As far as health issues go, budget for a 1–2 times a year dental prophy. For some reason, greyhounds have horrible dental issues, but they can be controlled. And like all deep chested breeds, they are prone to bloat (Gastric dilatation and volvulus syndrome), but the risk can be minimized with a surgical tack.

Overall, I’d say “Go for it!”. They are wonderful, sweet dogs.

I agree with @syz – I have a friend who has a retired racer as her own dog, and who raises (foster-home sort of) other racers who have retired from racing.

She absolutely adores this breed. Friendly, laid back, long legs.

My friend has 3 and loves them greatly!

I own a rescued racing greyhound that I adopted.

First, because of the relationships that they have to maintain with the trainers, the rescue groups are racing neutral so don’t go bad mouthing racing in front of the rescue group.

Second, the dogs are like aliens when they come off the track. They have never been in a car (don’t know how to jump in the backseat), never been on stairs, never seen a glass door (ours walked right into one right after we first got him). Most especially, they are not used to large spaces (back yards and neighborhoods). All of that will take some adjustment. It might help your dog to sleep in a crate when you first get him or her.

They are very loving to people, but have not been exposed much to children. I would never leave a greyhound alone in a room with a baby.

The rescue groups do not tell you that approximately 40% of the dogs never lose their high prey drive. This means they cannot be around cats or small dogs. (or rodents) They will kill them. This is true of our dog sadly.

You will be richly rewarded if you adopt one. They can be very funny and real characters. They are truly affectionate.

If you have any questions, you can PM me.

My sister has 2 and she loves them. Sounds like fluther is filled with greyhound experts!

They’re great house pets, easy to wind up for fun and quick to slow down. Keep them warm.

Personal experience – the best. At least if you don’t mind sharing the couch.

Two retired greyhounds who lived with a rabbit, cats, conures. Without incident. My SO says they followed the rabbit around like it was a pez dispenser.

Happy dogs, low maintenance, loyal, friendly.

Current cohabitor: Greyhound/German Shepherd cross. The perfect dog. Dog’s gift to man.