Origin:
The Greyhound is an ancient breed with carvings of them depicted in Egyptian tombs dating back as far as 2900 BC.
It is believed that the breed has descended from the Arabian Sloughi and over time has been traded and moved around the world from England to America and even used by Spanish explorers. They were officially recognised in America in 1885.   
The origin of their name remains unknown however it is believed it comes from the Old English words of ‘grei’ and ‘hundr’ which mean ‘dog’ and ‘hunter’.  
 
Purpose:
The Greyhound was bred for hunting. Being the fastest breed in the world, catching prey was never a challenge for them. Over history they have been used for hunting all types of animals from rabbits and hare to fox, deer and wild boar. Along with their speed, they also have fantastic eye sight, making them the perfect hunter.
As of today, Greyhounds are most popular for racing dogs. There are now two accepted line of breeding amount the breed, show line and racing line. The show lines meet the breeding standard and are suitable for entering the show ring with the racing line be bred purely to be the fastest on the track.

Coat care:
Grooming for this shorthaired breed is almost non-existent. They can be brushed as needed especially during times of shedding and really don’t require to be bathed. It is better for their skin to avoid bathing as much as possible to avoid dry skin and allow their natural oils to protect their skin and coat.


Health & Temperament:
Contrary to everything we know about the Greyhound, pet Greyhounds are very much a relaxed and easy going dog. They enjoy a daily walk and should only ever be let off leash in a safe and very secure space. Chasing small animals is in their blood so caution should always be taken around smaller animals. Aside from this, they are, in general, a very easy breed to keep.
Once their exercise needs are met, the Greyhound will happily lounge around the house (on the couch is preferred) and make great companions for the elderly. Sadly, many Greyhounds from the racing industry, when no longer winning races, are destroyed. Thankfully there are a number of Greyhound Rescue and Rehoming groups that help to rehome these dogs. Even if they have been raised as racing dogs, they still make amazing family pets and adjust well and easily to a home lifestyle with time and love. They enjoy the company of others dogs and will love a good play with other breeds.
They are a breed that is prone to bloat so it’s important all Greyhound owners are well educated on this and take appropriate precautions around meal and exercise times. You can read more on bloat HERE.  They live anywhere between 10 – 12 years on average. 

Have you ever wondered what an assistance dog does when they are off duty? Solo is happy to fill you in! 

As we arrive home and walk in the door, Solo follows me into my office to take off his uniform. He heels, we take off his harness and then collar is removed—oh sweet bliss after a big day at work! Now, ‘dog mode’ kicks in: firstly, food. Thirty seconds later, now it’s playtime as he races around and says g’day to my wife and son with a trusty Kong stick in his mouth.

Later, it’s cuddle time. As I recline in my chair, he curls up between my legs for some good one-on-one time before bed. Solo’s favourite thing to do when I’m not working is to simply snuggle, he’s such a softy and I love that about him so much.

Weekends and daytime at home, he loves to play and follow people around—he’s such a sticky beak, always needing to know what everyone’s up to!

But he always makes sure to keep a watchful eye on me. So much more than a Guide Dog or mobility tool, Solo is a true family member.”
​
– Tony, Guide Dog Handler

We all know the amazing work that the team at Guide Dogs Australia do.
Want to know more or how you can help? Support for groups such as Guide Dogs Australia is not just limited to donations. You can be involved in being a puppy raiser or even volunteer your time. You can find out more ways you can get involved HERE!