30 Things to Think About Before Adopting a Greyhound

Thinking of getting a Greyhound? These sleek, gentle dogs come with a few quirks, but if you understand their needs, they can be one of the most rewarding breeds to live with. We've had our fair share of experience with Greyhounds through fostering and helping others adopt retired racers, and here’s what we’ve learned — the real stuff you need to know before bringing one home.

What Greyhounds Are Really Like

Greyhounds are often misunderstood. People assume they’re hyperactive because they’re racing dogs, but the truth? They’re total couch potatoes. Yes, they can sprint like lightning, but they’ll happily lounge for the rest of the day. If you’re into short jogs and long cuddle sessions, a Greyhound might just be your perfect match.

They’re gentle, affectionate, and surprisingly low-maintenance — but only if you understand their unique needs.

The Good Stuff

• Easy to live with: Greyhounds are quiet, clean, and typically don’t bark much. They’re polite in the house and aren’t destructive when properly exercised and not left alone too long.
• Low grooming needs: That short, sleek coat sheds a bit but is easy to manage with weekly brushing. They rarely smell, so baths are minimal.
• Not needy eaters: They’re surprisingly light eaters for their size. Feeding them good-quality food twice a day won’t break the bank.
• Great for apartment life: Despite their size, they don’t need a yard. Two decent walks a day and some zoomies at a fenced dog park are more than enough.

Things You’ll Need to Work On

• Socialization matters: Especially with retired racing dogs, who may not have been around small dogs, cats, or even many people. Early and positive introductions are crucial.
• Prey drive is real: Off-leash freedom is a no-go unless you're in a fully fenced area. These dogs will chase anything that moves.
• Cold-sensitive: Greyhounds have very little body fat and thin skin, so they get chilly easily. Cozy beds and warm dog jackets in the winter are a must.
• Separation anxiety: They love their people and don’t enjoy being alone for long. If you’re gone all day, this might not be the right breed unless you can provide company (another dog, dog walker, etc.).

Good with Kids and Other Pets?

Yes, but with some caveats:

• Kids: They're generally gentle, but like any dog, they need to be treated respectfully. Teach children how to interact calmly.
• Dogs: They usually get along well with others, especially if well-socialized.
• Cats: It depends. Some Greyhounds do great with cats, others see them as prey. If you’re adopting, look specifically for a “cat-safe” Greyhound and always do a slow, supervised introduction.

Health and Vet Care

Greyhounds are generally healthy, but they have a few breed-specific concerns:

• Anesthesia sensitivity: Always alert your vet before any surgery.
• Bloat: Like many deep-chested breeds, they’re at risk. Feeding smaller meals and avoiding heavy activity right after eating helps.
• Thin skin: They’re prone to scrapes and cuts. We’ve had to keep a doggie first-aid kit on hand more than once.

They can live 12–15 years with good care — that’s a solid lifespan for a big dog.

Cost and Adoption Tips

• Buying from a breeder? Expect to pay $1,500–$2,500. Make sure the breeder screens for health issues and provides proper socialization.
• Thinking of adopting? Please do. There are so many retired racing Greyhounds looking for homes. Rescues usually test them for compatibility with cats, kids, and other dogs.

Final Thoughts

Greyhounds aren’t for everyone. If you’re gone all day, don’t have a safe place for them to run, or want an off-leash hiking buddy — this probably isn’t your breed.

But if you want a calm, sweet, elegant companion who’s happy lounging at your feet (or on your couch), and you’re willing to give them a little extra care and patience during the adjustment period, then a Greyhound could be one of the best dogs you’ll ever have.

And if you’re able to adopt a retired racer? Even better. Giving one of these dogs a second chance is incredibly rewarding — they’ve worked hard and deserve a soft place to land.

Let us know if you do bring one home — we’d love to hear your story.