Can Greyhounds Live with Cats and Other Pets?

Plenty of greyhounds happily share their lives with other pets, but it does take the right match and a thoughtful start. Here is what multi-pet households need to know before welcoming a greyhound home.

Greyhounds are social, easygoing dogs who are used to the company of other greyhounds during their racing careers. Many settle into a home with furry housemates beautifully, and some even prefer it. At the same time, greyhounds are sighthounds who have been bred for thousands of years to chase, so the key to a happy multi-pet home is finding a greyhound whose personality suits the animals already in your family.

Can greyhounds live with cats?

Yes, some greyhounds are great with cats. GAP refers to these dogs as cat tolerant greyhounds, and with careful introductions, patience and ongoing sensible management, many go on to share a home with a cat very happily.

It is not true of every greyhound, though. Some have a stronger chase instinct and may not be safe in a home with cats. That is why it is so important to tell the GAP team if you have a cat, so they can suggest a greyhound who is likely to be a good fit. Even a cat tolerant greyhound is not necessarily cat safe in every situation, so supervision and a safe retreat for your cat matter, especially in the early weeks.

For a step by step guide to introductions, read our resource Introducing Your Feline Friend.

What about other dogs?

Many greyhounds love canine company, and plenty live happily with another greyhound or a friendly dog of a similar size. Individual dog profiles on the GAP website often include a note about the sort of companion each greyhound suits. Some are keen on a canine friend, some are happy as the only dog, and some do best with a calm medium to large dog who respects their space. It pays to read the profile closely when you browse.

Our resource Introducing Your Home Dogs covers how to manage meetings with a resident dog.

Greyhounds and small dogs

Small dogs deserve a special mention. Greyhounds can have limited experience with dogs that look and move very differently to them, and some can become very excited when they meet one. All GAP greyhounds are temperament tested and assessed for predatory behaviour towards small dogs, and some individual dogs are listed as being suited to living with small dogs while others are not.

A greyhound that is relaxed with the small dog at home may still react to an unfamiliar small dog at the park, so it pays to stay alert out and about. Our resource Understanding and Managing Prey Drive explains what to look for.

If you have a very small dog, for example a Chihuahua, it is safest to adopt a cat tolerant greyhound. 

Rabbits, birds and other small pets

Small animals such as rabbits, guinea pigs, birds and chickens can be more of a challenge, because a greyhound's chase instinct is triggered by quick, small movements. If you have small pets, keep them in secure enclosures well out of reach, never leave them alone with your greyhound, and chat to the GAP team before you adopt so they can talk through your set up.

How GAP helps you find the right match

This is where GAP makes all the difference. Every greyhound is temperament assessed, and the team matches each dog to the right home based on your lifestyle, living situation and the pets you already have. You can also meet suggested dogs and see how they get along with you, which gives you a real feel for the fit before you commit. Be open about your household, because the more the team knows, the better the match.

Good things come to those who wait

Greyhounds who are suited to homes with cats or small dogs are always in high demand through GAP, so there can sometimes be a bit of a wait for the right dog to come along. It is well worth it. Finding the right greyhound for your home, and your pets, sets everyone up for a happy, settled life together. In the meantime, keep in touch with the GAP team, keep an eye on the available dogs on the GAP website and let them know your preferences, so they can think of you when a suitable greyhound is ready.

Setting up a happy multi-pet home

A few simple habits help everyone settle:

• Go slowly: Give your greyhound and your resident pets time to get used to one another, rather than rushing to a big meet and greet.
• Use the provided muzzle during the three week settling in period. 
• Create safe spaces: Baby gates, elevated spots for cats and separate beds and feeding areas let every pet relax.
• Supervise: Keep interactions supervised until you are completely confident everyone is safe and comfortable together.
• Keep the greyhound on lead: Use a lead during early introductions, and keep your greyhound on lead whenever you are out in public.
• Watch the body language: Fixed staring, stiffness, trembling or lunging are signs to calmly increase distance and ask for advice.
• Expect a settling in period: A greyhound may behave differently once their true personality emerges after the first few weeks.

Support when you need it

Adopting through GAP comes with lifetime support as part of the $100 adoption fee. If you are unsure about an introduction or notice any warning signs, call the GAP team on (03) 5799 0166 and they will be happy to help.

Frequently asked questions

Can I adopt a greyhound if I have a cat?

Often, yes. Some greyhounds are assessed as cat tolerant, and the GAP team can help you find one who suits your household. Careful introductions and supervision are important.

How long will I wait for a cat tolerant greyhound?

Greyhounds suited to homes with cats or small dogs are in high demand, so there can sometimes be a wait. The right match is well worth it, and the GAP team can keep you updated and let you know when a suitable dog becomes available.

Do greyhounds get along with other dogs?

Many do. Some enjoy a canine companion, others prefer to be the only dog, so it is worth reading each dog's profile and chatting with the GAP team.

Can greyhounds live with small dogs?

Some can. All GAP greyhounds are assessed for predatory behaviour towards small dogs, but it is a snapshot in time, so good management and supervision matter.

Are greyhounds safe with rabbits or other small pets?

Small animals need secure enclosures and careful supervision around any greyhound. Talk to the GAP team before adopting if you have small pets.

Is a second greyhound a good idea?

Many greyhounds enjoy the company of another greyhound, and some households find a pair works beautifully. It is not a requirement, and the GAP team can help you decide whether it suits you.

Ready to start your greyhound adventure?

If you have pets at home, a greyhound could still be the perfect addition. Tell the GAP team about your furry family and let them help you find the right match. Call (03) 5799 0166 to start the conversation. We are always happy to help.