Start your adoption journey

Excited to welcome a greyhound into your life? You’re in the right place. Our application process is simple and designed to help us get to know you, so we can find the greyhound that’s the best fit for your home and lifestyle. Whether you’re after a quiet companion, a playful mate for the kids, or a laid-back walking buddy, we’re here to guide you through the process. Just fill out the form below to get started — and take the first step toward finding your new best friend.

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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.

Available

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Harris

3 years old

Talk about a big softie! This lovely boy is such a sweetheart, he leans into you pats and looks up to you with his big eyes. He can be a little shy in new environments but soon bounces back to his joyful self! We think he may suit many households as long as there is a nice yard for him to relax and explore in.

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Bobby

3 years old

Bobby is a lovely young man, just look at his beautiful light-coloured eyes, they seem to stare into your soul. Bobby is a social, friendly and affectionate boy who is keen to move into his furever home. He may suit living with or without a canine pal of similar size and children aged 10years and older.

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Available

Willow ARP

3 years old

Meet Willow, the charming and affectionate greyhound who's looking for a forever home. This sweet girl has a strong desire to please and loves people, but she's still working on her manners - she can get a bit excited and jump up on people. With patience and training, Willow will thrive and become a loving companion. Willow may be suited to a home with kids aged 10+ and active adults who will appreciate her playful and loving nature. She's looking for a household where she's the only dog, and due to her energy levels, Willow requires a home with a secure yard and no apartments, please. She's also looking for a home with no old or frail people. Willow may be suited to live with a cat if introduced properly. If you're an active and patient family who can provide the right environment, Willow might be the perfect fit!
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Diesel

3 years old

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Meet Diesel, the handsome and charming greyhound who's looking for a forever home. This friendly boy has a bit of an independent streak, but loves treats and will warm up to you in no time. Diesel is a big boy with some rough edges, and he's looking for an experienced owner who can help him polish up his manners. Diesel may be suited to a home with kids aged 10+, who will appreciate his friendly and independent nature. He's looking for a household where he's the only dog or with a compatible medium to large dog friend. Due to his size and energy, Diesel requires a home with a secure yard and active owners who can provide the right environment - no apartment dwellers or elderly individuals, please. If you're an experienced owner looking for a loyal companion with a bit of character, Diesel might be the perfect fit!
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Shiny

4 years old

Meet Shiny, the sparkling gem of a greyhound who's sure to brighten up your life! This quiet and gentle soul is a sweet and affectionate girl who loves people and adores treats. Shiny's a laid-back companion who'll fit right into your daily routine, bringing joy and calm to your home. Shiny may be suited to a household with kids aged 5+ and for a home with either no other dogs or a male canine companion that gets along with her gentle nature. She also might be a great fit for elderly owners or apartment living,as she's low-maintenance and doesn't require a lot of space. And, surprisingly, Shiny might even live harmoniously with a cat! If you're ready for a loving and gentle companion, Shiny might be the perfect fit for your family.

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Trixie

3 years old

Trixie is full of tricks! Well not yet but we know she is a smart cookie that will pick up on things very quickly, maybe even get up to some mischief if she catches you napping on the job of Greyhound Servant! We think this beautiful, affectionate and sweet little girl may be ok for families with children 10 and over and another male canine companion of any size, she may even suit living with a feline friend! Go Trixie!

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Ravioli

2 years old

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This delicious girl has her eyeliner on and is ready to hit the streets and show off her glamourous looks! Maybe even stopping for a bite to eat at your favourite Italian spot! Miss Ravioli is not only beautiful, she is sweet, kind and affectionate. She can be a little reserved at first but soon warms up and leans in for a cuddle. We think she may suit living with children10 and over and maybe even another medium or larger male canine for company. We also think she would be best off in a home that has a yard as she is still only young and can take her time to adjust to new environments.

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Shell

2 years old

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This sweet little girl is Shell, and she is one that will need to come out of her “shell” a little when she goes into her forever home. But she will blossom as a sweet, puppyish girl that is excitable and bubbly when she is comfortable. We think she may suit living as an only dog or with another medium to large male canine companion and somewhere

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Harriet

6 years old

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Meet the gorgeous Harriet, or affectionately known as "Harry" for short. She has a beautiful soft and healthy coat; you'll want to pat and cuddle her all day long. We think she may have the softest belly we've ever come across here at GAP - it's like velvet! She is as beautiful on the inside as she is on the outside, she loves people more than anything! Harriet is a placid girl once she gets her 5 minutes of energy out, and she says that a daily walk is a must! Harriet may suit living with or without a canine pal of similar size and will need a home without children. Harry really is such an affectionate little girl who can't wait to shower you with love. Harry would also love to show you her awesome abilities to sit!
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Bort

5 years old

Bort is one of our not so brave soldiers here at GAP. He is still finding his feet and things are a bit scary at the moment. Dont let that fool you though, he loves people and will come and lean on you for pats and cuddles and really wants to be the bravest boy he can be. We think a nice quite home that has the patience to let him explore the world at his pace will be the perfect match for him and one without children as loud noises are a bit overwhelming. We also think he may suit living with another dog of any size that can show him that the world isnt so scary! Will you be Bort's home in shining armour? We know the best is yet to come with his handsome man.
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