The first sighthound reported in Europe, and a likely ancestor of the Greyhound was thought to have originated with the Celts of Eastern Europe or Eurasia. In 1974, systematic archaeozoology in Britain deemed out the occurrence of a real greyhound-type in Britain prior to the Roman conquest; Greyhound Dog Breed, a finding that was later validated in 2000.

Written evidence from the early time of Roman occupation shows that the invading troops from European Countries either had or knew about the vertragus and its hunting use in the North of England. Since its inception as a hunting type and breed, they enjoyed a certain level of popularity and description in Literary works, iconography, and sculpture as the most graceful or aristocratic partner and predator of the animal kingdom.

The contemporary lineage Greyhounds are descended from Greyhound stock that was first recorded and registered in private studbooks in the 18th century, then in public studbooks in the 19th century, and finally with the United Kingdom’s coursing, racing, and kennel club authorities. Historically, these sighthounds were mostly used for open-air hunting, where their speed of pursuit and excellent eyesight were critical.

They were mostly bred and trained for hunting and coursing until the early twentieth century. Greyhound racing was established in the United States during the 1920s, England (1926), Northern Ireland, Scotland, and the Republic of Ireland (1927). Australia has a thriving racing culture as well.

Greyhound Dog Breed Physical Appearance

They are a breed of sighthound that is tall, muscular, smooth-coated, “S-shaped,” and has a long tail and robust feet. Greyhound Dog Breed are dolichocephalic, meaning they have a long head compared to their width and an elongated muzzle.  They are distinct from other sighthounds that are related to them, such as the Italian greyhound. The breed is a friendly and clever breed that can reach average race speeds thanks to its long, muscular legs, deep chest, flexible spine, and slender body.

Males typically stand 71 to 76 centimeters tall at the withers and weigh 27 to 40 kilos on average. Females are typically shorter, with shoulder heights ranging from 26 to 28 in and weights ranging from 55 to 75 lb, though weights can vary significantly. Greyhounds have a short coat that is easy to care for. White, brindle, fawn, black, red, and gray are among the approximately 30 identified color variants, with variations of white, brindle, fawn, black, red, and gray appearing singly or in combination.

Behavior

Greyhounds are popular pets because of their loving temperament and delight of being in the company of humans or other dogs; however, how well a Greyhound tolerates the presence of other small animals such as cats is dependent on the personality of the particular dog. They are known for chasing small animals, although those with a low ‘prey drive’ can get along with toy dog varieties and cats. They thrive as pets in peaceful situations. They do well in households with children as long as the youngsters are taught how to treat the dog with respect and courtesy.

Training and Caring

Anyone unfamiliar with the genetic underpinnings of the breed disposition may find training a Greyhound to be a frustrating experience. Small animals and children should be introduced to a Greyhound at a young age. Because the Greyhound is often bored, keep training sessions short and sweet. He requires a gentle, never harsh, approach to training due to his meek, sensitive demeanor. Aside from frequent baths and weekly grooming, the Greyhound’s short, smooth coat takes little care.

Health

They are a breed that is known for being healthy and long-lived, and hereditary sickness is uncommon. Esophageal achalasia, gastric dilatation-volvulus, also known as bloat, and osteosarcoma have all been reported in this breed. Because the slender build of the breed makes it unsuitable for sleeping on hard surfaces, owners of racing and companion Greyhounds typically give soft bedding; without bedding, Greyhounds are prone to painful skin sores. They live for 10 to 14 years on average.