Living in an Apartment with a Greyhound

Despite their long legs and racing background, greyhounds are famously well suited to smaller homes. They are sprinters, not endurance athletes, and most of their day is spent resting rather than roaming. Here is what apartment life with a greyhound actually looks like, and how to set both of you up for success.

Why greyhounds are better suited to apartments than you'd expect

It seems counterintuitive that a dog this size could thrive in a one or two bedroom apartment, but greyhounds are built differently to most large breeds. Bred for short bursts of speed rather than sustained activity, they are naturally low energy indoors and happy to spend long stretches of the day sleeping on a soft bed.

Their quiet, easygoing temperament also works in their favour. Greyhounds are not known for excessive barking, and their calm nature means they generally settle well into smaller spaces, provided their exercise and comfort needs are met.

Setting up your apartment for a greyhound

A few thoughtful touches can make a big difference to how comfortable your greyhound feels in a smaller home.

• A well padded bed away from draughts, doorways and cold flooring, as greyhounds have very little body fat and feel the cold more than most breeds
• Non slip mats or rugs on floorboards or tiles, since their narrow paws and lean build can make slippery surfaces tricky to navigate
• A quiet, low traffic corner where they can retreat and settle without feeling underfoot
• Enough floor space for them to stretch out fully when lying down, greyhounds love a good sprawl

None of this requires a large footprint. Most greyhounds are perfectly content with a cosy bed and a calm corner to call their own.

Exercise needs without a backyard

Greyhounds do not need a big backyard to stay happy and healthy. Three or four short walks a day, around 10 to 30 minutes each, is typically enough to meet their exercise and toileting needs. Consistency matters more than distance. A predictable walking routine helps your greyhound settle into apartment life and gives them the outlet they need without relying on space you don't have.

Being a considerate neighbour

Apartment living means sharing lifts, hallways and common areas, and a little preparation goes a long way. Pet greyhounds in Victoria are not required to be muzzled in public, but they must always be kept on a lead, including in off leash areas. Many owners choose to keep a muzzle on for the first few weeks while their greyhound settles in, which can also help put other residents at ease when passing in tight spaces.

Practising calm lift and stairwell manners, keeping your greyhound on a short lead in communal areas, and being mindful of toileting spots will help you and your greyhound become popular members of the building community rather than a source of noise complaints, which greyhounds rarely are thanks to their quiet nature.

Toileting routines in a smaller home

Without a backyard for on demand access, a consistent toileting routine becomes especially important. Regular walks at similar times each day, along with a designated toileting spot nearby, will help your greyhound settle into a predictable rhythm.

Most greyhounds are naturally clean dogs and pick up apartment routines quickly once a schedule is in place.

Renting with a greyhound

If you are renting, Victorian law is on your side. Under the Residential Tenancies Act 1997, a landlord cannot unreasonably refuse a tenant's request to keep a pet. You will need to submit a written request using the Consumer Affairs Victoria pet request form, after which your landlord has 14 days to apply to VCAT if they wish to refuse. If they do not act within that window, consent is taken to have been given.

It still helps to make your case well. Having information on hand about your greyhound's temperament, size and quiet nature can ease any concerns your landlord may have, and our team is always happy to provide adoption details to support your application.

Frequently asked questions

Can greyhounds really live happily in an apartment?

Yes. Greyhounds are naturally low energy indoors and adapt well to smaller homes, provided they receive regular short walks and a comfortable place to rest.

Do greyhounds bark a lot?

Generally, no. Greyhounds are a quiet breed and are not known for excessive barking, which makes them a considerate choice for apartment living close to neighbours.

How much space does a greyhound actually need?

Less than you might think. A greyhound needs enough floor space to stretch out fully when resting, along with regular walks. A large backyard is not required for their day to day wellbeing.

Can I leave my greyhound alone in an apartment during the day?

Many greyhounds settle well and rest quietly while their owners are at work, particularly once they have had time to adjust to their new home. It is important to remember though that any longer than eight hours without access to a toilet is unfair on the dog, so if you work full time you’d need to arrange for someone to come in during the day to pop your dog out for a toilet break. Our team can help match you with a greyhound whose temperament suits your routine.

Thinking a greyhound could be the right fit for your apartment? Get in touch with the GAP team on (03) 5799 0166, we would love to help you find a greyhound whose personality matches your lifestyle.