Breed History: 

The English Greyhound is one of the oldest and fastest dog breeds in the world, with a history spanning over 4,000 years. Although its exact origins remain uncertain, the modern breed was refined in Great Britain, where it became highly valued by nobility for coursing deer, hare, and other game. The breed's remarkable speed, keen eyesight, and graceful movement made it one of the finest sighthounds.

Over the centuries, Greyhounds were selectively bred for speed, endurance, and agility. They later became famous in the sport of greyhound racing while continuing to excel in lure coursing and companion roles. Despite their athletic ability, Greyhounds are well known for their calm and gentle temperament at home.

Today, the English Greyhound is admired worldwide as an affectionate companion, accomplished athlete, and one of the fastest land mammals.

If you want to learn about other sighthound breeds, check out our page "Different Sighthound Dog Breeds".

Size – Medium-Large

Life Expectancy: 10-12 years

Breed Appearance: 

The English Greyhound is a tall, elegant, and exceptionally athletic dog with a streamlined, aerodynamic build.

The breed commonly features:

• Long, narrow head
• Strong, elongated muzzle
• Dark oval-shaped eyes
• Small, folded rose ears
• Deep chest
• Long, graceful neck
• Long, powerful limbs
• Long, tapering tail

Its coat is short, smooth, fine, and close-fitting.

Common coat colours include:

• Black
• White
• Blue
• Fawn
• Red
• Brindle
• Black and white

Many combinations of these colours are also common.

The breed's sleek physique and powerful hindquarters reflect its heritage as one of the world's fastest running dogs.

Breed Type – Sighthound:

The English Greyhound is a gentle, intelligent, and athletic hunting breed.

It is known for being:

• Loyal and devoted
• Gentle
• Calm
• Intelligent
• Affectionate with family
• Quiet

The breed forms close bonds with its family and is generally friendly while maintaining a relaxed nature indoors.

Training:

The English Greyhound is intelligent and willing to learn but has an independent streak.

Training should focus on:

• Early socialisation
• Positive reinforcement methods
• Basic obedience training
• Reliable recall in secure areas
• Controlled exposure to people and environments
• Consistent leadership

The breed excels in:

• Lure coursing
• Racing
• Agility
• Therapy work
• Companion activities

Because of its strong prey drive, recall training should always be practised in safely enclosed areas.

Health & Care:

The English Greyhound is generally a healthy breed but may be prone to several health concerns, including:

• Gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat)
• Hip dysplasia
• Hypothyroidism
• Osteosarcoma
• Heart conditions
• Sensitivity to anaesthesia

Routine veterinary care, responsible breeding, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight help support long-term health.

Living Conditions:

The English Greyhound adapts well to indoor living when provided with regular exercise.

Ideal environments include:

• Houses with secure yards
• Spacious apartments with sufficient daily exercise
• Active families
• Experienced or first-time dog owners willing to meet the breed's exercise needs

The breed thrives when living indoors with its family and appreciates a quiet, comfortable environment.

Exercise:

The English Greyhound has moderate exercise requirements.

Recommended activities include:

• Daily walks
• Short running sessions in securely fenced areas
• Lure coursing
• Interactive play
• Mental enrichment activities

Although capable of incredible speed, the breed is generally relaxed indoors after regular exercise.

Grooming:

The short coat requires minimal maintenance.

• Brushing once per week
• Occasional bathing
• Routine ear cleaning and nail trimming
• Regular dental care

The breed sheds lightly throughout the year.

Advantages:

• Gentle and affectionate temperament
• Exceptionally fast and athletic
• Low-maintenance coat
• Generally quiet indoors
• Adaptable to apartment living with sufficient exercise
• Loyal and devoted to family

Disadvantages:

• Strong prey drive
• Sensitive to cold weather due to low body fat
• Requires secure fencing when off leash
• Prone to certain health conditions such as bloat and osteosarcoma
• Can be reserved around unfamiliar people
• Needs regular exercise and mental stimulation