The Greyhound is a popular and well-known breed. Its long and lean body are its trademark. It also has an elongated head and muzzle. The ears are smaller than average and fold backward. The breed’s chest is deep and broad. Like most of the body, the neck is also elongated and extends into a wide back that slopes slightly from the neck and is more level at the tail. Its tail is long and curls upward. The coat is smooth and lies very close to its body.


The Greyhound is unique in its appearance and has a unique personality to match. The breed is loyal and loving to its family, but does not extend the same feelings to strangers. Once they get to know a guest and see that its family accepts them, they are more apt to exhibit friendly behavior. The breed is large, but is actually a great companion for children. Owners with cats in the home may have to watch to see how the Greyhound gets along it them since it is not typically fond of felines. The breed is smart and loves training exercises. If training is too physical it may become tired if the training lasts for an extended period of time.

Height and Weight

The Greyhound is an average of 27-30 inches tall and weighs an average of 60-70 pounds.

Health Problems

The Greyhound is a very healthy breed. There are no serious conditions associated with this breed. The dog may experience digestive problems, so it is better that it not eat large meals. Feeding the dog small meals several times each day is recommended. Other minor conditions that some types may develop include gastric torsion, cancer, and esophageal achalasia.

Ideal Living Conditions

Despite its size, the Greyhound is suitable for indoor living conditions. The key to the breed living successfully indoors is that it obtains sufficient opportunities for exercise. The breed is more content in temperatures that are not very cold.


The Greyhound requires a significant amount of exercise. Although they are fine indoors, they tend to be more inactive. The breed cannot handle long periods of exercise. It is better to take it for a short walk several times each day or one long walk.

Life Expectancy

The Greyhound lives an average of 10-12 years.

Litter Size

The Greyhound has an average of 8 puppies.


Very little maintenance is required for the Greyhound. To keep the coat smooth, brushing a couple of times is all that is necessary. The nails should also be clipped on a regular basis.


The Greyhound has a long history. It is believed to have originated more than 4,000 years ago in Egypt




There are a variety of colors that are acceptable for the Greyhound. These colors include, solid red, black, light yellow, and white. The coat may also be a combination coat of red and black. White markings are acceptable on the coat.