Does Anyone Have Any Information On Greyhound Dogs? Do They Shed? Micro Chipping A Good Idea?

Question

Does Anyone Have Any Information On Greyhound Dogs? Do They Shed? Micro Chipping A Good Idea?

Answer 1

As an owner of a greyhound and a volunteer in a greyhound rescue group, let me try to answer.

Greyhounds are short-haired dogs, but they will shed, especially in seasonal changes.  When they first come off the track they typically have a "kennel coat" which will shed once they're domesticated (i.e. not at the track).  

Micro-chipping is highly recommended.  Greyhounds have prey drive of varying degrees; since a hound only needs a few inches of open door to escape (and once out, they can easily hit 40-45mph very quickly while in pursuit of prey), it's highly recommended.  Think of it as buying a lo-jack; something you hope you never need.

As to the seperation anxiety issue- while greyhounds at the track are kept in crates along with other dogs, there is no scientific evidence that shows a direct link between seperation anxiety and greyhounds.

Each hound is unique in their own way; some hounds will do very well while left alone, while others less so.  There are numerous books and training tips to deal with this; one highly recommended book is "I'll Be Home Soon".  

As to what kind of a home they do well in...greyhounds are used to being on a fairly set schedule (turnout, feedings, walks, etc.).  Each hound has a level of activity that they prefer; some are more active, and some (like my boy hound) sleep 23 hours a day.  They do not need rigorous exercise; they need a couple short to moderate walks a day (for turnout/business).

Greytalk (Y!A rules prohibit links, so just google that term) is a great website; the user boards are a wealth of information about anything related to greyhounds.  

Answer 2

Greyhounds are a short haired breed, but they do shed.  Microchipping had been suggested up until recently, but because greyhounds have 16% body fat as compared to other breeds' 26% body fat, chips have been floating.  Microchipping greyhounds is under some debate.

Retired racers have ear tattoos.  One ear has the birth month and year along with a letter which signifies order of tattooing.  The other ear has the litter registration number tattooed in it.  All adoption groups for ex racers keep track of these tats so they can identify lost hounds and reunite them with their owners.

These dogs are amazing.  They're gentle souls who love their people and love retired life.  80% of them get along with little animals; you just have to let the adoption group know that you have little critters and they will find the perfect hound for you.  They're the only dog with a 270 degree sight range, as compared to other dogs' 180 degree sight range.  They can hit their top speed of 45mph faster than a Mercedes(clocked and documented).  They must always be on a leash if not in a fully contained area.  They're built for short burst speed but are the laziest dogs ever!  And they need homes so badly.

Nancy - who has adopted 7 greyhounds (so far)

and fostered 60 greyhounds (so far)

Answer 3

you dont need to micro chip,most greyhounds have there ears tatoued

Answer 4

Grey Hounds are great dogs, b ut usually best in families where people are always home most of the day (like retirees or families with kids). They are an extremely attached breed who stresses and gets anxiety when left alone too long. If you rescue one you should probably also not have any small animals as it's their instinct to attack them. Yes they shed but not a big problem with regular bathes and brushing. Micro chipping is always good too.

Answer 5

Greyhounds shed very very little.

It is always a good idea to micro chip any kind of dog!

Answer 6

Greyhounds are cool dogs.  They are really laid back and gentle.  However, they are always up to a good run.  Yes, they shed.  All dogs do but to varying degrees.  Microchipping is a good idea.  Greyhounds are sight hounds which means they want to chase things that run (i.e. cats, squirrels) and he may get lost.  It is never a good idea to let your Greyhound off-leash unless you are in an enclosed area.

Answer 7

Of course they shed, all dogs shed, and yes micro chipping is a good idea!