The Greyhound is the fastest breed of dog.

One of the ancient breeds that hunt by sight rather than by scent, the Greyhound is a gazehound, or sighthound. Today, most Greyhounds in the United States, are racing Greyhounds - or treasured family companions. Racing Greyhounds are registered with the National Greyhound Association, whereas less than 200 Greyhounds a year, are registered with the American Kennel Club.

One of the most celebrated owners of a Greyhound, in history, was General George A. Custer. One book reports that Custer's dogs were about to run a matched race the day before he left on his fatal expedition to Big Horn River in 1876. It was said he traveled with a pack of 40 or so, of his "coursing hounds," Greyhounds and "staghounds."

Without proper attention and exercise, Greyhounds will find other outlets for their energy, which may include chewing. Although they are the same breed, the two strains (racing Greyhounds and show/family companion Greyhounds) have been separated for decades and are rarely interbred. It is essential that Greyhound owners provide their dogs with soft places to rest and sleep as Greyhounds can develop pressure sores.

Greyhounds are very affectionate, but will not overly dote on you, their gentle nature makes him a good children's dog. Greyhounds are clean, with no doggy odor. They are not "barky," if they bark, it's for a reason. They are rarely a one-man dog, but instead like everyone - their temperaments range from sensitive to very outgoing.

The Greyhounds head is long and narrow and fairly wide between the ears. Their ears are small and fine in texture, thrown back and folded, except when excited, when they are semi-pricked. The Greyhounds eyes are dark, bright, intelligent and indicate spirit. The neck is long and muscular, without throatiness, slightly arched, and then widening gradually into the shoulder.

The Greyhounds coat is short, smooth and firm in texture, coloring is "immaterial," according to the Standard. Their coat is short, fine and has only a single layer (no undercoat) so very little grooming is needed ­ a quick wipe with a cloth, a light brushing and only an occasional bath and they are ready to go!

The Greyhound rarely licks (in affection) but instead, enjoys poking you with their long nose. They enjoy being "couch potato's," lying on the couch - with or without you - but greatly enjoy body contact. They are intelligent, independent thinkers. Many learn to open gates, garbage containers, etc.

They jump on people and tend to wrap their front legs over their "victim's" shoulder, all done in exuberant good nature. Greyhounds eat a lot. Most people think they are too skinny so they must not eat much. So wrong. They will out-eat any breed of comparable size. Greyhounds can be terrible thieves & steal clothes, Kleenex, children's toys, and bacon right out of the pan!

Their personal space is sometimes sacred to them - especially when sleeping. If suddenly disturbed they will occasionally snap in reflex, but rarely make contact. If it's a person disturbing them (not another dog) they are suitably ashamed of themselves. They have no qualms, however, about climbing on top of you while you are sleeping.

For more information on this treasured family companion, please contact the
Greyhound Club of America.