An Ancient Lineage
The greyhound is one of the oldest dog breeds known to man. Archaeological findings suggest that dogs of a similar type were kept by the ancient Egyptians over 4,000 years ago. Highly prized by royalty and nobility throughout history, these elegant sighthounds were bred primarily for hunting game over open ground, relying heavily on their keen eyesight and incredible bursts of speed.
During the Middle Ages in Europe, greyhounds were associated exclusively with the aristocracy; in fact, there were times when commoners were strictly forbidden from owning one. Today, they are beloved worldwide both as companion animals and athletic competitors.
The 45-MPH Couch Potato
Despite their reputation as the fastest breed of dog--capable of reaching speeds of up to 45 mph--greyhounds are incredibly docile and laid-back in a home environment. Because of their calm and gentle nature, many owners lovingly refer to them as "45-mph couch potatoes."
They typically enjoy lounging on soft beds or sofas for the majority of the day. A daily walk and a short sprint in a safely enclosed area are often all the exercise they require to stay perfectly happy and healthy.
Temperament & Personality
Greyhounds possess a sensitive, gentle, and quiet personality. They are incredibly affectionate with their families, though they can sometimes be slightly aloof with strangers. They rarely bark, making them unexpectedly great apartment dogs despite their large size.
Due to their strong prey drive (an instinct bred into them over millennia), extreme care must be taken around small animals. However, with proper introductions and training, many greyhounds live peacefully alongside cats and small dogs.
