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Greyhounds are the oldest, purebred dog, dating back to the Pharaohs of Ancient Egypt. Paintings inside the tombs of the great Pyramids depicted greyhounds. In England at one time, it was forbidden for 'commoners' to even own a greyhound.
Greyhounds are the fastest breed of dog, reaching top speeds of 40 miles per hour!
Many people who are allergic to dogs are NOT allergic to greyhounds, due to their short, sleek coat and skin type, which has more oil to it, thus less dandruff.
A retired racing greyhound will return the love and affection you give him by 110%. Few things in life are quite as satisfying as adopting one of these lovely greyhounds and being rewarded with never-ending love!
Greyhounds are very tolerant, and are generally very good around children. However, these are not the 'rough and tumble' playmates that many other breeds would be. These are also large dogs that usually have 'happy tails', which could easily knock a toddler or small child down. Although they are unfamiliar with other dog breeds, greyhounds are very social and usually will get along well with other canines or household pets. However, it is important that adoptive homes with cats or other small animals ensure that they are not getting a 'high prey' greyhound, as these small animals would be at risk. Even a greyhound that has been determined to be 'low prey' or 'cat-friendly' should be carefully introduced and supervised (on a leash and wearing a muzzle) during the first few weeks, or as long as it takes to ensure that the dog is trustworthy. Generally, greyhounds are very quiet. However, if they are unhappy they will announce it by howling. Multi-greyhound homes are sometimes serenaded by a group chorus, or 'rooing', just for the sheer joy of it.
Greyhounds are NOT guard dogs. Being bred specifically to be even-tempered and good natured, they are inherently well socialized. For this reason they LOVE everyone.
There are many myths and misconceptions about the true nature of greyhounds. The most common ones relate to their racing career, and their subsequent ability to adapt to life as a house pet. Greyhounds are very gentle, sweet-natured creatures who love their new life as 'retirees', and become almost instant "40 mile-an-hour couch potatoes." They bond very closely and quickly with their new family members, and will follow from room-to-room just to be in close proximity to them. Greyhounds are house dogs, and do not do well being isolated from their human pack. They are not usually 'demanding' of attention, but love to receive it.
Strangers will often find greyhounds to be reserved or ever aloof. This is also a very intelligent and adaptable breed that for the most part can make the life changing adjustment from racing kennel to loving home with relative ease. Although in their former lives they did not enjoy the creature comforts afforded most canine pets, greyhounds quickly adapt to the joys of squeaky toys, the luxury of a cozy bed, and the pampering of a loving family. Understandably, there is an adjustment period that each dog will go through, as they are unfamiliar with such things as climbing stairs, walking on shiny floor surfaces, and windows, having never encountered these things previously.They also have some quirky, but endearing traits. Greyhounds like to 'collect' such unlikely household items as placemats, alarm clocks, or anything else that catches their interest and is within their grasp. Usually these 'treasures' are taken to their crate or bed. Many greyhounds sleep with their eyes 'open.' In order to prevent startling it, the dog's name should be called before approaching, to ensure that it is awake.
Greyhounds are the ONLY canine mentioned in the Bible by James. (King James version, Proverbs 30:29-31)
President Abraham Lincoln had a greyhound on his family coat-of-arms.
The mythical Greek Goddess Diana is usually pictured with a greyhound at her side.
There is an Irish greyhound named Master McGrath, who has been memorialized in poetry and song for his winning the English Waterloo Cup race.
Greyhounds can see CLEARLY for a distance of a half-mile.
