Top 10 Reasons to Adopt a Greyhound

Gentle, low maintenance and endlessly affectionate, these gorgeous hounds make wonderful companions for almost any lifestyle, from busy young professionals to families with kids to retirees looking for a quiet companion. Here are our top ten reasons to consider a greyhound for your next family member, plus what to expect once you bring one home.

1. They're the ultimate couch potato

Despite their reputation as racing dogs, greyhounds are famously lazy at home. Known affectionately as  70 kilometre an hour couch potatoes, most greyhounds are happy to spend the majority of their day snoozing on a soft bed or lounge. One short walk a day, around 20 to 30 minutes, is usually all they need to stay content and healthy.

This makes them a lovely match for people who want the companionship of a dog without the demands of a high energy breed. Many new owners are surprised at just how much of the day their greyhound is happy to spend curled up nearby, often taking up far less space on the couch than you would expect for a dog their size.

2. Gentle and affectionate by nature

Greyhounds are known for their calm, sweet temperament. They form close bonds with their people and love nothing more than curling up beside you for a cuddle. Their gentle nature makes them a lovely addition to many households, and they are often described by new adopters as surprisingly soft, both in coat and in personality.

It is common for greyhounds to lean into their people for affection or rest their head in your lap. Many owners say their greyhound quickly becomes the most affectionate pet they have ever owned, forming a strong bond with every member of the household.

3. Great with families and other pets

Many greyhounds are wonderful with children and get along beautifully with other dogs. At GAP, every greyhound is assessed before adoption, and our team will help match you with a greyhound whose temperament suits your household, whether that includes kids, cats or other four legged friends.

We take the time to understand your family, your home and your existing pets so we can find a greyhound whose personality is the right fit. Our team is also on hand after adoption to support you through the settling in period and answer any questions as your new family member finds their feet.

4. Low maintenance grooming

With their short, sleek coats, greyhounds are a breeze to groom. A quick brush now and then is usually all it takes to keep their coat looking glossy, and they shed far less than many other breeds, a bonus for anyone who prefers a tidier home.

There is no need for regular trips to the groomer or complicated coat care routines. Greyhounds also tend to have less of that distinctive dog smell than many other breeds, making them a great option for people who want a low fuss pet.

5. Perfectly suited to apartment living

Don't let their size fool you. Many greyhounds adapt beautifully to apartments and smaller homes thanks to their naturally low energy. As long as they get their daily walk, greyhounds are content to relax in a compact space.

Their calm indoor temperament means they are far less likely to pace, scratch at doors or disturb neighbours than many smaller, higher energy breeds. This makes them a popular choice among city dwellers and renters looking for a low impact pet.

6. Already well mannered

Having spent lots of time around people throughout their racing careers, many greyhounds come to GAP with lovely house manners already in place. With a little patience and consistency, most settle into home life quickly and happily.

Basic routines such as walking on a lead, being handled and spending time around other dogs are usually already familiar to them. This head start can make the adjustment to home life smoother for both greyhound and owner alike.

7. They're incredibly loyal companions

Greyhounds form deep bonds with their families and often become devoted shadows, following you from room to room. Their quiet loyalty and affectionate nature make them wonderful companions for singles, couples and families alike.

Many adopters describe their greyhound as their constant companion, always close by whether you are working from home, relaxing on the couch or pottering around the garden.

8. A gentle, quiet nature

Greyhounds aren't known for excessive barking, they tend to be a quiet, easygoing breed. This makes them a great option for those who value a peaceful home or live close to neighbours.

Their calm demeanour extends to most everyday situations, and many greyhounds take visitors, new environments and everyday household noise in their stride once they have had time to settle in.

9. Adopting comes with peace of mind

Every greyhound adopted through GAP is vaccinated, microchipped, desexed and health checked before going to their new home, and our team is on hand with support and advice for life. Adoption fees help GAP continue its work finding loving homes for greyhounds across Victoria.

You will also receive guidance on everything from muzzle use and introductions to other pets, through to nutrition and settling in tips, so you feel confident and supported from day one.

10. You'll be giving a happy hound a well earned retirement

Adopting a greyhound means welcoming a gentle athlete into the next exciting chapter of their life, a career change from the track to the couch. Watching a greyhound settle into home life  and enjoy simple everyday joys is one of the most rewarding parts of adoption.

There is something special about being the family that gets to show a greyhound what life outside racing looks like, from their first proper sleep in, to their first walk in the park, to the first time they realise the couch is theirs too.

Is a greyhound the right fit for you?

Greyhounds suit a wide range of homes and lifestyles, but like any pet, they are a better fit for some households than others. A greyhound could be a great match if you:

• Enjoy a relaxed pace at home and are happy with a couple of short walks a day rather than intense exercise
• Want a calm, affectionate companion who loves being close to their people
• Live in an apartment, townhouse or smaller home with limited outdoor space
• Are looking for a low grooming, low shedding breed
• Can provide a warm, comfortable spot indoors, as greyhounds feel the cold due to their low body fat and thin coats

If this sounds like your household, our team would love to help you find a greyhound whose personality matches your lifestyle.

Frequently asked questions

Do greyhounds need a lot of exercise?

No. Most greyhounds are happy with around 20 to 30 minutes of walking a day, split across one or two outings. They are sprinters rather than endurance athletes, and the rest of their day is typically spent relaxing at home.

Are greyhounds good with children?

Many greyhounds are wonderful with children, particularly when introductions are supervised and the household is a calm, gentle environment. Our team assesses each greyhound's temperament and will help match you with a dog suited to family life.

Do greyhounds get along with cats and small pets?

It depends on the individual greyhound. Some greyhounds are cat tolerant and can live happily alongside cats and other small pets with the right introductions and management, while others are better suited to homes without small animals. GAP assesses each greyhound and can help match you accordingly.

What does the adoption process involve?

Our team will chat with you about your lifestyle and household, help match you with a suitable greyhound, and support you through the settling in period. Every greyhound is vaccinated, microchipped, desexed and health checked before adoption.

Ready to meet your new best friend? Browse our adoptable greyhounds or get in touch with the GAP team on (03) 5799 0166 to start your adoption journey today.