Why greyhounds make amazing pets
Greyhounds are becoming an increasingly popular pet option for a number of reasons and it’s easy to see why. With their gentle nature, low-maintenance lifestyle, and surprising love for lounging, greyhounds make wonderful companions for people from all walks of life.
Greyhounds: The ideal pet for modern life
More and more Australians are becoming aware that greyhounds not only boast a placid nature, but they are excellent companions that don’t require a lot of exercise and are happy to spend most of the day sleeping. An increasing number of people living in and around Melbourne’s CBD are adopting greyhounds as pets as they are extremely adaptable and can suit almost any home environment. GAP is committed to ensuring that all of its greyhounds are adopted into homes that are well suited to the greyhound and the new owners.
While GAP will always strive to achieve a perfect match from the outset, all adoptions are subject to a three-week trial period. This means that if the greyhound is not a good fit for the home, the greyhound can be returned to GAP. Further to this, GAP provides a lifetime return policy, which means that any GAP greyhound can be returned to GAP any time during its life should the adopter not be able to keep it. So if you are thinking about getting a pet dog, please consider giving one of our beautiful retired greyhounds a home.
Why greyhounds make great pets
Thinking about adopting a greyhound? You’re not alone - more and more people are discovering just how well these graceful dogs fit into family life. They’re relaxed, loving, and incredibly easy to live with. Here are just a few reasons why greyhounds make such wonderful companions:
Surprisingly low-maintenance
With their short, sleek coats, greyhounds barely shed and only need occasional grooming - making them an easy choice for those who’d rather skip the vacuuming and spend more time cuddling. Add in their calm nature and simple exercise needs, and you’ve got yourself a pet that fits seamlessly into daily life.
Calm, quiet and gentle
Greyhounds are famously quiet dogs who rarely bark, making them ideal for households that value peace and calm. Their placid, affectionate temperament means they get along beautifully with people of all ages - including kids - and they’re quick to settle into new routines.
Laid-back loungers with a love for naps
Despite their athletic background, most greyhounds are champion nappers who are perfectly content snoozing for up to 20 hours a day. They only need a short daily walk - often just 15 minutes - and then they’re back to enjoying their favourite hobby: relaxing in a sunny spot or curled up on the couch beside you.
Graceful souls, golden years
Greyhounds make wonderful companions at any age - but there’s something truly special about adopting a senior. With their calm, settled nature and years of love to give, older greyhounds are often the perfect match for those seeking a more relaxed, low-key companion.
Their adaptability and gentle temperament mean they transition easily into home life, often with impeccable manners and a deep appreciation for the comforts of family living. If you're after a loyal friend to share the quiet moments, a senior greyhound might be your perfect match.
Frequently asked questions
Adopting a greyhound is an exciting journey and it’s only natural to have a few questions along the way. Here are some of the most common questions we hear from future adopters and the answers that’ll help you feel confident every step of the way.
1
What is the process of adopting a greyhound?
The process of adopting a greyhound typically involves several steps. First, you will need to fill out an application form that provides information about your living situation, experience with pets, and your preferences for a dog. After your application is reviewed, you may be contacted for an interview to discuss your application in more detail. Once approved, you will be invited to meet the greyhounds available for adoption. This is a crucial step as it allows you to find a dog that matches your lifestyle and personality. After selecting a greyhound, you will complete the adoption paperwork and pay any associated fees.
Finally, you will receive guidance on how to transition your new pet into your home, including tips on training and care.
2
What should I consider before adopting a greyhound?
Before adopting a greyhound, it's important to consider several factors. Greyhounds are known for their gentle and calm demeanor, but they do require regular exercise and mental stimulation. Ensure you have a safe space for them to run and play. Additionally, consider your lifestyle and how much time you can dedicate to a new pet. Greyhounds can adapt to various living situations, but they thrive in homes where they receive love and attention. It's also essential to think about any other pets you may have and how they will interact with a new greyhound.
Lastly, be prepared for the financial responsibilities of pet ownership, including food, veterinary care, and other supplies.
3
Are greyhounds good with children?
Retired racing greyhounds are very tolerant with children. If a child becomes overbearing, the dog will usually walk away rather than snap or growl. As with all breeds of dogs, small children should never be left unsupervised with your greyhound. It’s also vitally important that you teach your children to respect the dog. Children poking dogs, falling on them or pulling tails should NEVER be allowed. Children should also be taught to respect the dog’s space around food and bedding. Homes with young children should also provide the greyhound with a “time out” area – this is a quiet space where the greyhound can get away from the children for a rest. Children should be taught that this area is off limits.
4
What is the average lifespan of a greyhound?
The average lifespan of a greyhound is typically between 10 to 14 years. Like all breeds, their lifespan can be influenced by various factors, including genetics, diet, and overall health care. Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and proper exercise can contribute to a longer, healthier life for your greyhound. It's essential to be aware of common health issues that may affect the breed, such as bloat and hip dysplasia, and to take preventive measures.
By providing a loving and supportive environment, you can help ensure your greyhound lives a full and happy life.
5
Do retired greyhounds require a lot of exercise?
No. Greyhounds are sprinters and as such, tire very quickly. They enjoy, but are not dependent on, moderate exercise. In most homes, the shared experience of a short brisk walk once a day is enough to keep both the adopter and the adoptee in good physical health. They can make good jogging companions, but only after they are properly conditioned for long distances.
6
Are greyhounds good with other animals?
It depends on the dog. While some greyhounds are not suitable for homes with small animals such as cats and rabbits, a lot are. At GAP we behaviourally assess our greyhounds very thoroughly to ensure that a correct match between greyhound and adopter is achieved. Care should be taken when introducing your new greyhound to your other animals and they should never be left alone together until you are sure there are no problems.
7
What is the average size of a greyhound?
Male greyhounds are larger than females, weighing from 30 to 45kg and standing from 65 to 75cm at the shoulder. The females can weigh from 25 to 35kg and stand from 60 to 70cm at the shoulder.
8
Do females make better pets than males?
No. There is little difference between males and females, except that the males are larger. Female greyhounds tend to be more independent and stubborn, while males are generally more affectionate and easy going.
9
Why do greyhounds make good pets?
Greyhounds are quiet, well mannered, and very easy to live with. They are friendly, affectionate, lazy, calm, clean, loving, trusting and good-natured.
10
What happens if things don't work out?
All adoptions should be undertaken with the expectation that your new pet will be with you for life. However, GAP will always reclaim greyhounds should your situation change or in the unlikely event that you are unhappy with the dog.
11
What colour are greyhounds?
The most common colours are black, brindle and fawn. Other colours include blue and white, and a combination of these colours (e.g. black and white). It is important to note that GAP does not select dogs by colour.
12
Are the greyhounds for adoption house-trained?
Most of our dogs are house-trained before being adopted. Greyhounds are intelligent, clean animals who learn very quickly. As they are already kennel trained, house-training is usually quickly learnt. You should, however, expect some accidents until a routine has been established.
13
Can greyhounds be let off lead?
In public places, absolutely not! It is both illegal and extremely dangerous to allow a greyhound to run off lead. This includes off leash dog parks. Greyhounds are one of the fastest land mammals, with speeds reaching 67 kph. Horses, by comparison, have been known to reach 70 kph. If you think that you will simply run and catch your greyhound if he bolts, consider this: a sprinting man can run only 44 kph. Therefore, catching a running greyhound is only slightly less difficult than catching a running horse – impossible. Greyhounds have been bred for thousands of years for one thing: speed. In the case of retired racers, the situation is more acute because they have had the speed and chase mentality reinforced in them from the moment they were born. Once a greyhound spots something in the distance, they will be off to investigate and more times than not they won’t come back. Greyhounds also have no road sense and can easily run out on the road and get hit by a car. Due to the speed at which they run, greyhounds can quickly get lost or seriously injured or killed should they step in a pot hole, hit a stick or fence or slip on uneven ground.
14
Do greyhounds make good guard dogs?
No. Greyhounds are placid, friendly animals who are not protective about their property or people. They tend not to bark, and rarely alert owners to the arrival of strangers at their home.
15
Do greyhounds have to be muzzled in public?
The Victorian Government approved changes to the greyhound muzzling laws and effective 1 January 2019, retired greyhound owners can choose to have their greyhounds muzzle free in public. Note: Greyhounds who successfully pass the GAP program will continue to undergo a thorough temperament assessment to ensure they are safe around small dogs and okay to be muzzle free in public.
16
Do retired racing greyhounds adjust quickly to life as a pet?
Yes. Greyhounds are fostered by GAP for around one month to expose them to as many new things as possible, and the dogs are quite settled in a family environment well before the foster time is through. Greyhounds thrive on human companionship and bond very quickly. Bonding usually only takes a matter of days, and becoming accustomed to a new routine and environment generally only takes a few weeks. The older greyhounds tend to be better mannered from the start while the younger dogs are generally more curious and active.
Meet our dogs ready for adoption
All greyhounds adopted from GAP are de-sexed, vaccinated, microchipped, wormed and health checked.
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Lucy
Angel ARP
Angel is a lovely female greyhound with a sweet, friendly nature and an outlook that’s as sunny as her name suggests. She is outgoing and confident, greeting people with warmth and charm, and she adores human affection. Angel enjoys being part of the action, whether that’s following you around the house or leaning in for pats —she’s a true people-dog who thrives on connection and companionship.
Angel maybe suited to a home with adults or families with children aged 10 and over who can return her affection respectfully. She may be ok to live as an only dog, soaking up all the love, or along side a compatible medium to larger male canine companion. With her affectionate personality and easy confidence, Angel is ready to bring joy, love, and gentle fun to her forever home.
Angel is part of our Assisted Rehoming Program (ARP). We have behavioural and health assessed this lovely dog, and they will remain with their racing owners until they find an adoptive home, at which point they are brought back into GAP. This means that should you be interested in adopting this dog, we are bringing the dog into GAP on the understanding that you will be adopting this particular dog, and no other dogs currently in our care.
Ben ARP
Listen up! Ben is on the hunt for his forever home! Whilst he is still young and lacking a little bit of confidence in the world, we have no doubt he will shine as a pet in the right home. Due to his quiet and cautious nature we think he will be better suited to a home with teens or just adults, eithe by himself or another calm, respectful and polite dog of any size to show him the ropes and a backyard to relax in is a must. Are you sweet Ben's new family!?
This dog is part of our Assisted Rehoming Program (ARP). We have behavioural and health assessed this lovely dog, and they will remain with their racing owners until they find an adoptive home, at which point they are brought back into GAP. This means that should you be interested in adopting this dog, we are bringing the dog into GAP on the understanding that you will be adopting this particular dog, and not other dogs currently in our care.
Peter
Alice
Rocky ARP
How pretty is Rocky? He has the whole world in his paws with hat adorably cute head tilt! Rocky is a very friendly, outgoing and confident boy who loves treats and is happy to hang out with his people. He can be enthusiastic at times when playing with other dogs so he may be better suited to a home with a robust medium or large canine companion, or may even suit living as an only dog. He may be happy living with children aged 10+ and full time workers.
This dog is part of our Assisted Rehoming Program (ARP). ARP dogs are kept with their racing owners until they find an adoptive home, at which point they are brought back into GAP. This means that should you be interested in adopting this dog, we are bringing the dog into GAP on the understanding that you will be adopting them. As such, you will not be able to meet any other dogs, as you otherwise would be able to.
Paddy ARP
Meet Paddy, a handsome male greyhound with a polite, gentle manner and a friendly, personable nature. He is a calm and thoughtful boy who enjoys human company and greets everyone with quiet charm. Paddy is affectionate without being demanding and has a lovely way of making people feel at ease, whether he’s leaning in for a pat or simply relaxing nearby. His easygoing temperament makes him a pleasure to have around.
Paddy would be well suited to a home with adults, elderly adopters, or families with children aged5 and over who can interact with him kindly and respectfully. He can live happily as an only dog or with a compatible medium to large canine companion.With his calm energy and good manners, Paddy may also suit apartment living,provided his exercise and comfort needs are met. He’s ready to settle into a loving home where he can relax, enjoy companionship, and be cherished.
This dog is part of our Assisted Rehoming Program (ARP). ARP dogs are kept with their racing owners until they find an adoptive home, at which point they are brought back into GAP. This means that should you be interested in adopting this dog, we are bringing the dog into GAP on the understanding that you will be adopting them. As such, you will not be able to meet any other dogs, as you otherwise would be able to.
Josie ARP
Josie’s has just come back from a vacation far away and ready to settle into her new forever retirement home! We think she may suit living with other male dogs medium or larger and children 10 and over. She may also suit living as an only dog and with full time workers.
This dog is part of our Assisted Rehoming Program (ARP). ARP dogs are kept with their racing owners until they find an adoptive home, at which point they are brought back into GAP. This means that should you be interested in adopting this dog, we are bringing the dog into GAP on the understanding that you will be adopting them. As such, you will not be able to meet any other dogs, as you otherwise would be able to.
Bessie ARP
Little brindle gal Bessie is now in the market for her new forever home! She isn’t really fussy about what she needs as she is a quiet, easy going and sensible little lady but she would love some people to dote on her till the end of her days at the very least. We think she may suit homes with children 10 and over and maybe another male canine companion of any size. She may even like to live in an apartment or with an elderly person! Like we said, she is pretty easy going!
This dog is part of our Assisted Rehoming Program (ARP). ARP dogs are kept with their racing owners until they find an adoptive home, at which point they are brought back into GAP. This means that should you be interested in adopting this dog, we are bringing the dog into GAP on the understanding that you will be adopting them. As such, you will not be able to meet any other dogs, as you otherwise would be able to.
Winx ARP
Meet Winx, a beautiful female greyhound with a calm, polite nature and a heart full of sweetness. She is gentle and personable, taking her cues from the people around her and doing her very best to please. Winx can be a little anxious in new situations, but reassurance and kind guidance go a long way—once she settles, her affectionate and thoughtful personality truly shines. She enjoys quiet companionship and will happily be by your side, soaking up the comfort of a predictable routine.
Winx would do well in a home with adults, elderly adopters, or families with children aged 10 and over who can respect her sensitive side. She would be happiest as an only dog, or with a compatible medium to large canine companion who matches her calm energy. With patience, love, and a peaceful home, Winx will reward her people with loyalty, grace, and a gentle presence that makes every day a little brighter.
This dog is part of our Assisted Rehoming Program (ARP). ARP dogs are kept with their racing owners until they find an adoptive home, at which point they are brought back into GAP. This means that should you be interested in adopting this dog, we are bringing the dog into GAP on the understanding that you will be adopting them. As such, you will not be able to meet any other dogs, as you otherwise would be able to.