Greyhounds: Not What You May Think Quiz

Answer: True

There are approximately 30 recognized color forms, of which variations of white, brindle, fawn, black, red and blue (gray) can appear uniquely or in combination. Greyhounds are also a short hair breed which makes their coat easy to maintain and groom. There are 18 "official" colors.

Answer: To prevent injury to other greyhounds

Greyhounds, contrary to popular belief, are not naturally aggressive animals. The main reason for muzzles to be work during racing is to prevent injuries to other dogs. Greyhounds have the tendency to nip at the other dogs during racing and periods of excitement. Since they have very thin skin and minor cuts will require stitches, and probably time away from racing.

Answer: No reason. They don't require it.

Contrary to popular belief, adult Greyhounds do not need extended periods of daily exercise,(20 minutes twice a day should suffice for most dogs) as they are bred for sprinting rather than endurance. A very common misconception regarding Greyhounds is that they are hyperactive, but this is far from the truth. They sleep close to 16 hours per day. Not much need for exercise there.

Answer: Dogs are trained to be in small crates for long periods of time

Since greyhounds spend a good portion of their lives in a kennel before they are adopted, they are usually crate trained. At some race tracks, greyhounds are kept in crates for upwards of 20 hours per day, and most know of nothing else. Crate training a retired greyhound in a home is generally extremely easy because it's already been done by the prior owner.

Answer: Their care may require specialist knowledge of the breed

Due to the unique makeup of greyhounds, a veterinarian who understands the issues specific to the breed is generally needed when the dogs need treatment, particularly when an anesthetic is required. Greyhounds cannot tolerate certain anesthesia, because they have lower amounts of specific enzymes in their livers. Greyhounds also have unusual blood chemistry, which can be misinterpreted by veterinarians not familiar with the breed.

Answer: Yes

Greyhounds live most happily as pets in quiet environments. They do well in families with children, as long as the children are taught to treat them properly. They have a sensitive nature, and gentle commands work best as training methods. In fact, due to their calm temperament, they can make good "apartment dogs".

They are generally not barkers, which is helpful in neighborhood environments (nothing worse than a barking dog when you're trying to sleep), and they are usually as friendly to strangers as they are with their own family.

Answer: Greyhound Adoption and Rescue Groups

Greyhound adoption or greyhound rescue programs focus on finding homes for Greyhounds who are no longer needed for racing. In some countries they live in kennels at the track. Most greyhound adoption programs are based in the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the United States. Greyhound rescue is a critical aspect of the career of a racing dog. Retired racers that do not find adoptive homes are usually put down and that is sad.

Answer: False

Greyhounds have very thin skin and very short fur. Combined with their low body fat, coats or sweaters are required when outside in cold weather. Some owners even put boots on their greyhounds in very cold temperatures. The lack of an undercoat also makes a greyhound more susceptible to extreme temperatures so, for this reason, it is best to house them indoors.

Answer: Hunting and Coursing

Until the early 20th century, greyhounds were principally bred and trained for hunting and coursing, which is the pursuit of game. They would typically course animals such as rabbits, hares, foxes, jackrabbits, and even coyotes. In the British Isles and in Europe, there was coursing of deer. Later, they also specialized in competition hare coursing. During the 1920s, modern greyhound racing was introduced into the United States and England as well as Ireland.

Answer: Soft bedding such as pillows

The greyhound's physique makes it difficult and uncomfortable to sleep on hard surfaces. They are prone to develop painful skin sores if there is no soft bedding available. The dogs enjoy resting on beds and sofas, often sleeping or dozing 16 hours a day or more.

They often create a pile of bedding material such as blankets that can cushion their deep rib cage, but that can make it difficult for them to get comfortable so owners of greyhounds generally provide soft bedding.