Adopting a Greyhound sounds romantic—like rescuing a misunderstood runway model who just wants a warm couch and a second chance at life. And sure, that’s part of it.
But here’s the truth no one puts in the adoption brochure: Greyhounds are weird, delicate, sleep-loving aliens. They are unlike any dog you've ever met. If you're a first-time dog owner, or even just a “regular dog” person, you need to ask better questions than “Is she house-trained?”
Because behind those soulful, almond-shaped eyes is a high-speed introvert with trust issues, thin skin, and no clue what a mirror is.
This is your no-fluff, totally human guide to what you actually need to ask before bringing one home.
1. “Has This Dog Ever Lived in a House Before?”
Many retired racing Greyhounds have never lived inside a home. No carpet. No mirrors. No ceiling fans. No idea what a glass door is.
So if you're imagining a smooth transition into apartment life, think again. Some Iggies and Greys will stare at the stairs like they’re an alien invention. Others will pee on your couch because “inside” means nothing to them.
📌 If the answer is no: Be prepared for patience, confusion, and a lot of baby gates.
2. “Does This Dog Have Separation Anxiety?”
Greyhounds are clingy. Like, follow-you-into-the-bathroom clingy. Many have never been alone—they’ve either been kenneled with other dogs or lived around-the-clock with handlers.
Leaving them home alone can lead to panicked pacing, howling, and destructive chewing.
🐾 Ask specifically: Can the dog be left alone? How long? What signs of stress have they shown?
📌 Pro tip: If you're a 9-to-5er and live alone, this is the dealbreaker question.
3. “What’s This Dog’s Prey Drive Like?”
Greyhounds are sight hounds. That means they chase anything that moves fast—including squirrels, cats, or that plastic bag blowing across the sidewalk.
Not all of them, but many have a very high prey drive, especially ex-racers who spent years chasing lures.
📌 If you have cats, small dogs, or tiny children who act like squirrels: You must know this upfront.
4. “Is This Dog Okay With City Life—or Is It a Country Dog?”
Some Greyhounds are surprisingly chill in cities. Others hear one honk and melt into the sidewalk.
If you live in an apartment near traffic, construction, or just… the sounds of modern life, ask whether the dog has been exposed to:
-
Elevators
-
Sidewalk grates
-
Skateboards
-
Loud trucks
📌 If they’ve only known the quiet of a foster farm: You may be in for a sensory-overload meltdown.
5. “What Kind of Diet and Digestion Issues Should I Expect?”
Greyhounds are sensitive eaters. Their stomachs are drama queens. Switch the food too fast and you’ll learn what a Greyhound really thinks of your rugs.
Ask what the dog’s currently eating, what treats they tolerate, and whether they've had any GI issues. Diarrhea is common during the transition.
📌 Reality check: You may become very familiar with boiled chicken and rice. And pumpkin. Lots of pumpkin.
6. “Is This Dog More Couch Potato or More Athlete?”
Greyhounds are lazy… until they’re not.
Some are 23-hour nappers. Others are anxious pacers who need daily bursts of zoomies or they implode. You need to know if you're adopting a retired sprinter or a retired soul-searcher.
🐾 Ask their foster: How often does the dog get the zoomies? Are they restless without a walk?
📌 If you're sedentary or high-energy, make sure the dog matches your vibe—not your fantasy.
7. “What Weird Habits or Quirks Should I Know About?”
Greyhounds are full of surprises.
Some refuse to walk on tile floors. Others obsessively collect socks. One I met wouldn’t go outside if the grass was damp. Another one peed every time a man looked at her.
📌 Don’t just ask about the basics—ask for the quirks. It’s the only way to prepare for life with a sensitive drama noodle.
🐾 Final Thought: Love Is Not Enough—But Preparation Is Everything
Greyhounds are heartbreakingly gentle, fiercely loyal, and gloriously weird. But they are not plug-and-play pets.
Ask the weird questions. Dig deeper than “Is he cute?” Know what you’re walking into—because when you commit to a Greyhound, you're not adopting a dog. You're welcoming in a skittish, sleepy philosopher who will change your life in ways you didn’t even know you needed.
And if you’re ready to do the work? You’re about to meet the love of your life.
No comments:
Post a Comment