Greyhound

The Fastest Napper in the World
Also Known As -
The Greyhound is a sleek, sensitive, and graceful companion known for its gentle demeanor and lightning-fast speed. Despite their athletic build and racing history, Greyhounds are surprisingly low-energy indoors and are true couch potatoes at heart. Their quiet nature and affectionate temperament make them an excellent choice for first-time dog owners.

New Owner

Great for quiet households, apartment living, or anyone wanting a gentle, affectionate companion without extreme exercise needs.
Activity Needs
Average
Average
Average
Average

Greyhounds enjoy daily walks and short bursts of running in secure areas, but they’re otherwise calm and low-maintenance.

Trainability

Greyhounds respond well to gentle, positive training. They can be sensitive, so harsh corrections are counterproductive.

kid compatability
Kids
Kids

Generally excellent with children, especially when raised with them. Their calm demeanor makes them a steady presence.

grooming needs
Low
Low
Low

Short, sleek coat requires minimal grooming. Weekly brushing with a soft mitt is usually enough.

noise level

Greyhounds rarely bark and are one of the quietest dog breeds. Ideal for apartment dwellers or sensitive neighbors.

Good for Allergies
No
No

No—while they shed minimally, Greyhounds are not hypoallergenic and still produce dander.

About the

Greyhound

The Greyhound is a tall, slender breed developed for coursing game and, more recently, for racing and companionship. Known for its speed and streamlined build, the Greyhound is among the fastest land animals, capable of reaching speeds over 39 miles per hour in just a few strides. This is made possible by its long legs, deep chest, flexible spine, and aerodynamic physique.

Despite their athleticism, Greyhounds are not high-energy dogs. They are sprinters, not endurance runners, and are known for their calm and restful nature. Short daily walks and occasional opportunities to run are generally sufficient to meet their exercise needs. This combination of speed and calm demeanor has earned them the nickname “forty-five mile per hour couch potatoes.”

The breed is known for its gentle temperament and quiet disposition. Greyhounds tend to be even-tempered, affectionate with family members, and tolerant of other dogs. Historically bred to race and hunt in groups, they are typically non-aggressive and sociable, though caution is advised around smaller animals due to their strong prey drive.

Greyhounds have a short, fine coat and are typically lean in build, requiring a soft place to rest. They adapt well to home life and are often found resting in comfortable spots for much of the day.

Similar Breeds: Whippet, Italian Greyhound, Saluki, Borzoi

What It's Like To Own One

Living with a Greyhound feels like adopting the world’s most graceful couch potato. They’re calm, clean, and affectionate in the most soothing way—offering quiet companionship rather than constant excitement. While they do have bursts of energy (zoomies are real and majestic), most of the day is spent lounging like royalty, draped over furniture or curled up in a blanket cocoon.

They’re sensitive dogs who bond deeply with their people. Greyhounds don’t smother you with affection—they lean in gently, follow quietly, and make you feel like the center of a serene little universe. They’re polite, peaceful, and incredibly easy to live with, provided their need for softness, stability, and a few walks a day is met.

Whether you’re a city dweller with a calm lifestyle or someone who just appreciates a dog with elegance and empathy, a Greyhound brings a unique mix of grace and goofiness that quietly steals your heart.

Tail Of The Tape

Trait
Low
High
Height
27
in
30
in
Weight
60
lbs
70
lbs
Lifespan
10
yrs
10
yrs

Personality Snapshot

  • Extremely low body fat—sensitive to cold
  • Prefer soft bedding
  • Often require muzzles in off-leash settings due to prey drive
  • Lean body makes them prone to pressure sores
  • May startle easily from loud noises

Breed Embodiment

Tilda Swinton
Unconventionally elegant and quietly magnetic—Swinton embodies the Greyhound’s poised grace and inner strength.

Dating Profile

Hey. I’m a Greyhound. Yes, I used to run fast—but now I’m more into soft beds, slow strolls, and snacks I don’t have to chase. I’ll love you gently, follow you like a quiet shadow, and charm your guests with my elegant vibes and excellent lounging form. I’m sensitive, soulful, and surprisingly low-maintenance. If you’ve got a warm home, a little patience, and an appreciation for long naps in sunbeams, we’ll get along just fine. Don’t let the speed fool you—I’m built for calm.

Fictional Owners

Amélie Poulain (Amélie)
Whimsical, gentle, and quietly observant—Amélie shares the Greyhound’s charm and understated spirit.
Atticus Finch (To Kill a Mockingbird)
Measured, principled, and calm—Atticus would appreciate the Greyhound’s steady presence and soulful eyes.
Mr. Darcy (Pride and Prejudice)
Stoic yet affectionate once bonded—Darcy reflects the quiet devotion and reserve of a Greyhound.

Where They Want To Live

Greyhounds are surprisingly well-suited to urban living and peaceful homes. Despite their athletic build, they’re quiet, low-energy dogs who thrive in cozy apartments, small homes, or any space with soft bedding and a sense of calm. They adore creature comforts—warm blankets, padded furniture, and a predictable daily rhythm.

They don’t need acres of land—just short walks, light play, and a safe space to relax. A home without chaos suits them best, especially for retired racers who may be adjusting to life off the track. Whether you live in a city high-rise or a quiet neighborhood, a mellow, nurturing home is where a Greyhound truly stretches out—literally and emotionally.

🐾 Bringing home a

Toy dogs can bring big challenges.
Start with puppy socialization tips for your 
Greyhound
to build confidence early.
And make sure to check out, Help! I Got a Puppy, a complete guide for new dog parents to raise a great pup without losing your mind.
Small dogs can bring big challenges.
Start with our puppy socialization tips for your 
Greyhound
to build confidence early. And make sure to check out, Help! I Got a Puppy, a complete guide for new dog parents to raise a great pup without losing your mind.
We’ve got you covered with
first 48-hour tips for your
Greyhound
puppy to start off right.
To prep for the wild ride ahead, grab Help! I Got a Puppy, the first book every new dog owner should read.
Big pups grow fast. Get ahead of the curve with
puppy proofing tips for your new  
Greyhound
puppy and make your home safe from day one. Then dive into Help! I Got a Puppy, a step-by-step handbook for everything you’ll need (and didn’t know to expect).
Start with this
Puppy 101 for your new  
Greyhound
to build habits before that little giant grows up.
And don’t miss Help! I Got a Puppy— the Google Maps of puppyhood and your sanity-saving handbook for the first year.

Things To Know

• Needs a coat in cold weather

• Secure fencing for off-leash play

• May not be cat-safe—prey drive varies

• Regular dental care is important

• Lean body = soft surfaces preferred

Gear Guide

• Soft-bristle brush or grooming mitt

• Sweater or jacket for winter walks

• Orthopedic or padded dog bed

• Martingale collar

• Enclosed space for running (if possible)

Health Watch: Common Breed Risks

Greyhounds are generally healthy but have some breed-specific considerations:

• Sensitivity to anesthesia and certain medications (due to low body fat)

• Dental disease (common in retired racers)

• Osteosarcoma (bone cancer risk)

• Hypothyroidism

• Pressure sores or thin skin injuries from hard surfaces

• Cold intolerance

Routine care and soft bedding go a long way in keeping them healthy and happy.

Coat Types & Color Variety

Sleek and low-maintenance, their coat is part of their signature style:

• Short, smooth, single-layer coat

• Common colors: black, fawn, blue, white, brindle, or any combo

• Very low shedding

• Requires minimal grooming—weekly brushing is enough

• Needs jackets or sweaters in cold weather

They’re easy-care on the outside—just bundle them up when it’s chilly.

Diet & Nutrition Needs

Greyhounds benefit from a light, high-quality diet tailored to their metabolism:

• Feed a lean-protein, easy-to-digest kibble

• Monitor weight—some Greyhounds are naturally thin, others prone to gain post-racing

• Split meals to prevent bloat risk

• Add joint and skin supplements, especially for seniors

• Avoid high-fat treats or sudden dietary changes

Think “clean and consistent” when it comes to feeding.

Health Care Tips

To keep a Greyhound healthy and content, focus on comfort, calm, and routine:

• Provide cushioned bedding to protect their bony frame

• Brush teeth regularly—dental issues are common

• Keep nails trimmed short to avoid foot strain

• Use harnesses instead of collars to protect their delicate neck

• Limit rough play with other dogs to avoid skin tears

A relaxed, protected Greyhound is a quietly joyful one.

Bottom Line

The Greyhound is a soulful minimalist—graceful, quiet, and all about the simple joys: soft bedding, a steady routine, and someone to lean on. They’re low-maintenance in the best way: clean, calm, and content with short walks and long naps. With gentle training and a peaceful home, a Greyhound becomes a devoted companion who’s always nearby—but never in your way. For anyone who wants a loyal, low-key dog with a quiet presence and a gentle heart, the Greyhound is a dream on four legs.

Additional Resources