Greyhounds Make Great Pets!

The Lodge at Belmont, encourages greyhound adoptions because we want all adoptive age dogs to go to loving homes. If you are interested in adopting a Greyhound, there are a few things you should know about taking care of this special breed.

The Greyhound is one of the fastest moving mammals and can run up to 40 mph at top speed. They also have one of the sweetest dispositions and, in most cases are good with children as pets. They are usually two to four years old and weigh between 50 and 85 pounds depending on gender. With proper care they have a life expectancy of 15 years.

Exercise:

It is important to keep a Greyhound on a leash so they cannot run into traffic or too far from home. Walk your Greyhound three or four times a day on soft surfaces such as grass or dirt. The greyhound’s pads are not used to hard surfaces yet and will need time to adapt. Let the dog run freely at least once a week in a fenced area.

Do not tie up a Greyhound on a rope or chain. They are not used to it and may get tangled or injure themselves chasing something they see.

Bedding:

Because Greyhounds have little body fat and only a thin coat of hair, they must sleep indoors to protect themselves from extreme weather. Crates with soft bedding are recommended for beds since they are accustomed to an intimate area.

Other Animals:

If you have other pets, check with your adoption representative about the best way to acquaint the animals. Greyhounds have good socialization skills with other dogs. However, as with any new pet, you may want to feed your animals separately at first in case of jealously.

Food:

Greyhounds eat approximately four to six cups of food a day. Some dogs prefer dry meal mixed with canned dog food to form a stew. They should be fed at the same time twice each day.

To Adopt:

There is a tax-deductible adoption donation required which includes the dog’s neutering or spaying, teeth care, worming, Heart Worm test, and shots (DHLPP, Rabies, Bordatella and Corona vaccinations), all done before going home with you. Each dog is supplied an I.D. tag, a safety collar and matching leash.

Greyhounds are not accustomed to being a “house” dog and it will take them time to adjust to their change in lifestyle. Some leniency must be given at until the dog is comfortable in its new surroundings. This should take no more than a few days to a few weeks. Love and patience will assure a successful transition.

For further questions about adoption or greyhounds in general, please call: Greyhound Pets of America, Central New Hampshire Chapter