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Toileting Problems in Greyhounds
Many greyhounds are very ‘clean’ when it comes to their toileting habits, but others may take a little time to learn not to mess in the house.
Many racing greyhounds have only ever lived in a kennel environment, with regular ‘let-outs’ for a run and toilet break during the day. Some greyhounds never receive any formal toilet training, and for a few of them, all the world is one big concrete toilet!
Research has shown that dogs that are toilet trained are more likely to be included in family life and activities, and less likely to be shut outside on their own. For this reason greyhounds in foster care are all given lessons in toilet training – similar to training a young puppy. When you adopt your greyhound, it may have already started to understand what is expected, but they may be still a ‘work in progress’, so it is important that you don’t expect perfection, and work hard to continue to teach your greyhound good toilet habits.
So how do dogs learn what is a toilet and what isn’t?
Puppies actually start learning about what is a toilet and what is not when they are still with their mother. At 3-4 weeks of age they start leaving the nest to toilet, and quickly learn what surfaces to use. Hopefully, the breeder of your greyhound provided a different surface to the bedding so that the pups could learn what is called ‘substrate preference’.
For puppies that have been raised on one surface only, such as newspaper or concrete, there is less difference between bed and toilet, and these dogs can be harder to toilet train because to them the whole world is a toilet! Often small breeds of dog and those from pet stores or kennels fall into this category.
Set yourself up for success
Before you even bring your greyhound home it is important to decide where you would like it to go to the toilet. Some people are happy as long as the greyhound goes outside, others are very specific about where outside the dog should be going.
When your greyhound first comes home it is really important to try to establish a routine straight away. In those first few days, if you can get a schedule of feeding, exercise and toileting started, toilet training becomes a little easier, and mistakes are far less likely to happen.
Your greyhound should have set meal times if possible, as what ‘goes in’ on time, usually ‘comes out’ on time. With young dogs and puppies, it is not uncommon for them to use their bowels after a meal. Each time they eat, their bowel will become active and not long after this meal he will probably want to pass a stool. Older dogs may vary from this, but you will soon learn when your dog is likely to toilet.
My greyhound is not great with the toilet training…..
If your greyhound is still learning his toilet manners, you will need to treat him in the same way as you would a little puppy. Every time he wakes up, the first thing you should do is head straight for your toileting area. You do not want him to get distracted or wander into the wrong room, so the best method is to pop him on the lead and quickly walk him outside to the area you want him to use. You can then reward him with a food treat and some praise when he has ‘performed’.
As we have already discussed, after meals is another time the greyhound should be escorted to the toilet. Other times include after a game, before bed or confinement, and any other time when it has been a while since the last puddle. Most greyhounds are used to toileting on leash, so you should not have any problems with this aspect of the process.
What if your greyhound makes a ‘mistake’?
When you find a puddle (or worse) inside, it is important to think of it as an error that could probably be prevented if you had managed the dog a bit better – rather than get angry at your greyhound. Usually a mistake occurs because you were not watching the dog, and did not see the warning signs that he needed to toilet (sniffing, circling), or there is an impediment stopping the dog reaching the correct toilet area (such as a closed door!)
In any case, you will have to re-think the way you manage your greyhound. There is no point scolding or punishing the dog as usually by the time you find the mistake/puddle quite some time has elapsed and any yelling or scolding will not be associated with the act of toileting. Instead you need to think about why the mistake occurred and do what you can to prevent it happening again.
Maybe you needed to confine your greyhound so it does not wander about the house where you cannot supervise. Maybe you should have taken the dog to the toilet earlier, or maybe you should be watching more closely.
Regardless of the cause of the error, you will need to thoroughly clean the area so that the greyhound is not attracted back to this area by the smell. Avoid products that contain Ammonia or ammonium as when these products breakdown they smell just like another animal’s urine. Instead look for enzymatic cleaners, or products designed for cleaning up after puppies. Your vet may be able to recommend an odour neutraliser to further remove the evidence.
I have heard that crate training can help with toilet training…
Crate training, where the dog is confined when it cannot be supervised, is a great adjunct to toilet training. Most dogs instinctively avoid soiling their own bed, so by having them confined in a crate, they are more likely to try to hold on until they get out of the crate. Being confined to a crate also stops them from wandering unsupervised around the house. The crate becomes a comfortable rest area with a warm bed and some toys for the puppy to play with or chew on. As soon as the dog is released from the crate, he is taken straight to the toileting area on the leash, and encouraged to toilet. Your greyhound should never be confined to his crate so long that he needs to relieve himself in there.
My greyhound wants to go out at night, do I have to get up and take him?
Many newly adopted greyhounds are not used to having to ‘hold on’ right through the night. Making sure that the last thing that you do before your greyhound is put to bed is take him to the toilet can help, along with avoiding exciting games that are followed by a big drink of water just before bedtime. If your greyhound is in a crate or confinement area over night, it is important that you get up and take him to the toilet if he is restless. This can be very tiring for you, but it is worth it in the long run as the greyhound will soon learn to hold on.
It is important that you do not teach your greyhound that 2am is a good time for a game or a quick zoomie around the yard. Night-time toilet trips should be all business. Simply hook on the lead, walk him to the toilet and stand there waiting for him to go. Do not play or pet your greyhound. Once he has finished relieving himself, you can reward him with a food treat or a quick pat, and it is back to bed.
Some people choose to confine their greyhound to a room such as the laundry over night, and put paper down for them to use as a toilet. This is fine, but it does slow the learning process as the greyhound is still learning that toileting in the house is acceptable. It also adds another step to the training sequence as you have to later teach them not to use the paper.
I let my greyhound out to go to the toilet, but when he comes back in he piddles just inside the door. What am I doing wrong?
Often owners just put their greyhound outside the back door and expect it to head off to the toilet on its own. After five or ten minutes they assume the dog has relieved himself and let the dog back in, only to find he immediately piddles on the floor. Sometimes the reason the owner does not want to go outside is that it is cold, dark or rainy.
This is a problem of supervision. If it is cold, dark or rainy the greyhound probably does not want to go out into the weather either! The owner assumes the greyhound has emptied out, but in fact he might have sat at the back door wanting to get back inside, and as soon as he does, he remembers he needs to go to the toilet.
The answer is to escort your greyhound to the toilet – regardless of the weather. This way you can be sure that he has actually been to the toilet before he is allowed back inside.
Simply pop the lead on, grab a coat, jacket or umbrella and head outside to the doggy toilet with your dog. This way the toilet trip can be completed successfully and you can all return inside.
When should I expect my greyhound to be trained?
At the age that most greyhounds are adopted, they do have the physical ability to hold-on, unlike little puppies who may not have full bladder control.
Some greyhounds seem to take longer to toilet train than others, often due to the lack of early substrate preference learning. These dogs can take months to really get the idea that the toilet is outside – but patience is the key. Of course upset tummies, and the stress of changing homes can lead to some accidents, as can some medical problems such as bladder infections. If you are doing everything right and your greyhound is still having problems, a trip to the vet may be in order. This is also true of dogs that have been very reliable, and suddenly seem to lose their training.
The other problem that some owners face is when their male greyhound decides to ‘mark’ (lift their leg) inside the house. These boys may need to be reminded that the toilet is outside, and that marking is fine for trees, but not allowed inside on the leg of the dining room table. Once again supervision is the key.
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Meet our dogs ready for adoption
All greyhounds adopted from GAP are de-sexed, vaccinated, microchipped, wormed and health checked.
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Zoodles ARP
John
Rose
Muffin ARP
Muffin is a delightful burst of joy wrapped in a pretty greyhound package. Sweet, friendly, and wonderfully outgoing, she approaches life with bright enthusiasm and a wagging tail that never seems to stop. An affectionate and personable girl, Muffin loves making eye contact and clearly wants to please, forming quick and meaningful connections with everyone she meets. Her puppyish nature shines through in her playful antics and excitable spirit, making her an absolute delight for those who enjoy a lively and affectionate companion.
Muffin would thrive in a home that can match her energy and embrace her extroverted personality. She may suit living with or without a robust, playful canine companion of similar size and would do well with children aged 10 years and older. With her love of running and playing, Muffin will be happiest in a home with a backyard where she can stretch her legs and burn off her joyful energy. For anyone seeking a fun-loving, devoted, and engaging companion, Muffin is ready to fill your days with laughter and affection.
Muffin is a part of our Assisted Rehoming Program (ARP). We have behavioural and healthassessed this lovely dog, and they will remain with their racing owners untilthey find an adoptive home, at which point they are brought back into GAP. Thismeans that should you be interested in adopting this dog, we are bringing thedog into GAP on the understanding that you will be adopting this particulardog, and no other dogs currently in our care.
Dudley ARP
Dudley is a handsome and gentle boy with a quiet, thoughtful nature. A true introvert at heart, he prefers to take his time getting to know the world around him—but he always tries his best, showing a lovely, personable side as his confidence grows. Sweet and affectionate in his own way, Dudley enjoys calm companionship and will happily share his company once he feels comfortable. While he can be a little strong on the lead at times, with patience and guidance he is sure to develop into a wonderful walking partner.
Dudley can be a little unsure around other dog breeds, particularly smaller ones, but with calm, gradual introductions and ongoing support, he has the potential to build his confidence and feel more at ease. He may suit living with or without a calm, placid canine companion and would be best matched with children aged 10 years and older who can respect his gentle nature. Dudley will likely thrive in a home with a backyard where he can relax and feel secure, making him a delightful companion for someone who appreciates his quiet charm and is willing to help him continue to blossom.
Dudley is a part of our Assisted Rehoming Program (ARP). We have behavioural and healthassessed this lovely dog, and they will remain with their racing owners untilthey find an adoptive home, at which point they are brought back into GAP. Thismeans that should you be interested in adopting this dog, we are bringing thedog into GAP on the understanding that you will be adopting this particulardog, and no other dogs currently in our care.
Sava ARP
Sava is a truly lovely greyhound with a calm and easygoing nature that makes him a pleasure to have around. Quiet and laidback, he takes life in his stride while still being friendly and gently outgoing when meeting new people. Sava has a warm, personable charm and enjoys sharing his affectionate side with those he trusts, whether that’s relaxing by your side or joining you for a peaceful stroll.
With his adaptable temperament, Sava may suit a variety of homes. He could live happily with or without a canine companion of similar size and is likely to do well with children aged five years and older. Thanks to his calm and quiet nature, he may even be well suited to apartment living. Sava is a sweet, steady companion who will bring a sense of calm and comfort to his forever home.
Sava is part of our Assisted Rehoming Program (ARP). We have behavioural and healthassessed this lovely dog, and they will remain with their racing owners untilthey find an adoptive home, at which point they are brought back into GAP. Thismeans that should you be interested in adopting this dog, we are bringing thedog into GAP on the understanding that you will be adopting this particulardog, and no other dogs currently in our care.
Eloise Bridgerton ARP
Miss Eloise Bridgerton is a delightful young lady of charm and lively spirit, quite impossible to overlook in any social setting. Pretty as a portrait and brimming with personality, she is a social butterfly who greets the world with a wagging tail and a prancing step that would turn heads at any promenade. Sweet, friendly, and wonderfully outgoing, Eloise displays a confident and affectionate nature, always eager to make new acquaintances and shower her companions with playful devotion.
True to her spirited and somewhat “puppyish” disposition, Eloise thrives in a home that can embrace her energetic and excitable zest for life. She may suit living with or without a canine companion of any size and would happily share her affections with children aged five years and older. While she is endlessly entertaining, her lively enthusiasm means apartment life would not be her calling—this young lady deserves room to prance, play, and let her joyful personality shine.
Eloise 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 untilthey find an adoptive home, at which point they are brought back into GAP. Thismeans that should you be interested in adopting this dog, we are bringing thedog into GAP on the understanding that you will be adopting this particulardog, and no other dogs currently in our care.
Cooper ARP
Cooper is a handsome and charismatic greyhound who wins hearts wherever he goes. Friendly, outgoing, and full of confidence, he has a wonderfully personable nature that makes him a joy to be around. Cooper loves being part of the action and is always ready to share his affection, whether it’s through a wagging tail, a playful bounce, or leaning in close for cuddles. His playful spirit brings a light and happy energy to any home lucky enough to welcome him.
Cooper would suit a variety of family setups, including homes with children aged five years and older, and he may be just as content living with a canine companion of similar size or as your one-and-only. Due to his lively and playful personality, he would be best suited to a home with some space rather than apartment living. With his loving nature and zest for life, Cooper is sure to make a fun and devoted companion.
Cooper is a 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.
Kenworth ARP
Kenworth is a striking young greyhound who rolls into life with all the confidence and charm of a top-of-the-line rig. With his handsome looks, cool markings, and standout white socks, he’s impossible to miss—like a classic Kenworth cruising down the highway. Sweet, friendly, and full of puppyish enthusiasm, Kenworth loves to connect with his people and isn’t shy about jumping up for a cuddle when he’s excited. His outgoing nature makes him a fun and engaging companion who’s always ready to brighten your day.
Kenworth is best suited to a home with a bit of space to match his lively personality, as apartment life wouldn’t quite suit his energetic style. He may be happy living with or without a canine companion of a similar size and would do well in a home with children aged 10 years and older. With the right guidance and love, Kenworth will cruise straight into your heart and become a loyal, affectionate co-pilot for life’s adventures.
Kenworth is part of our Assisted Rehoming Program (ARP). We have behavioural and healthassessed this lovely dog, and they will remain with their racing owners untilthey find an adoptive home, at which point they are brought back into GAP. Thismeans that should you be interested in adopting this dog, we are bringing thedog into GAP on the understanding that you will be adopting this particulardog, and no other dogs currently in our care.
Pandora ARP
Pandora is a truly lovely mature greyhound with a gentle soul and a heart full of quiet affection. Calm, polite, and incredibly sweet, she carries herself with grace and ease, making her a pleasure to be around in any environment. Pandora’s friendly nature shines through in her soft interactions, and she forms bonds quickly with those who offer her kindness. She is also very easy to handle and walks beautifully on the lead, making daily outings relaxed and enjoyable.
With her adaptable temperament, Pandora is suited to a wide variety of homes. She may do well living as an only dog or alongside dogs of any size and is considerate around children aged five years and older. Her calm and undemanding nature also means she could comfortably settle into apartment living. Whether she’s quietly lounging by your side or joining you for a gentle stroll, Pandora is a devoted and affectionate companion ready to bring warmth and tranquillity into her forever home.
Pandora is a part of our Assisted Rehoming Program (ARP). We have behavioural and healthassessed this lovely dog, and they will remain with their racing owners untilthey 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.