Hound Group
Greyhound
Champion Pedigree
Gentle
Swift
Sighthound
One of the fastest dog breeds on earth, capable of reaching speeds over 40 mph, the Greyhound is an ancient sighthound bred for coursing game by sight. Despite its racing reputation, the breed is famously gentle and low-energy at home, earning the nickname "45-mph couch potato."
Lifespan
10–13 years.
Did You Know?
Retired racing Greyhounds are often surprisingly low-energy house pets, content with a couple of short walks and long naps in between.
Breed Traits
Size
27–30 in. tall, 60–70 lbs.
Energy Level
Low to moderate at home — a sprinter, not an endurance athlete; needs a securely fenced area to run occasionally.
Coat & Grooming
Very short, smooth coat; low grooming needs but limited protection from cold.
Good With Families
Gentle and affectionate; typically calm with children and often good with other dogs.
Registry Record
Also Known As
Greyhound
Origin
Ancient origins traced to the Middle East and North Africa, refined in England.
Typical Litter Size
6 to 8 puppies.
Club Recognitions
AKC, FCI, KC (UK), NGA
Disposition
Gentle, quiet, and undemanding at home; strong sighthound prey drive means recall off-leash is unreliable around small animals.
Coat Colors
Any color, including brindle, fawn, black, red, blue, and white.
Working Roles
Historically a coursing hound; widely used in competitive racing through the 20th century, now increasingly retired to adoption.
Health & Wellness
A generally healthy breed, though bloat and a sensitivity to anesthesia (shared among sighthounds) are worth understanding.
Notable Greyhounds
Racing Champions
Historic racing Greyhounds set numerous speed records throughout the 20th century.
Adoption Success Stories
Greyhound adoption groups have successfully rehomed tens of thousands of retired racers as companion pets.
Ancient Depictions
Greyhound-like dogs appear in Egyptian tomb art dating back thousands of years.
Related Reading
Greyhound Gifts
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