Some facts about Greyhounds
Greyhounds come in a variety of colours: black, white, red, blue, fawn, fallow, brindle or any of these colours broken with white.
Males are usually bigger and slightly taller than the females - the typical height of a dog measured at the shoulder is between 28"-30", bitches are around 27"-28". They are a pedigree breed and normally stay fit and healthy into their teens.
In terms of temperament, there is little to choose from between the genders. The breed is typically intelligent, gentle, affectionate and even-tempered. They are quite laid back and docile, yet despite possessing remarkable stamina and endurance need only two twenty minute walks each day. They are often described as 'couch potatoes', requiring less exercise than average dogs. Most greyhounds walk quietly on a lead without pulling.
Because their coats are short and smooth, they don't get too dirty and can come back from muddy walks relatively clean, generally requiring little grooming.
Greyhounds get along with children, the elderly and often live happily with other pets, including cats.
A short history of the Greyhound
It is interesting to note that the Greyhound is one of the oldest breeds in existence and has been traced back thousands of years to the early cave drawings. It is also the only dog mentioned in the Bible.
The greyhound was the dog of the pharaohs in Ancient Egypt, the dog of the kings of Ancient Greece and of the landed gentry and nobles in England. According to H Edward Clarke, greyhounds can be traced back 4000 years. Originating in Southern Arabia, the greyhound was introduced to Britain via the Romans.at least that is what is believed to have happened.
An illustrated manuscript in the British Museum dating to the 9th Century, depicts a chieftain and his huntsman with two greyhounds.
Greyhound racing is believed to have begun in 1876 in Hendon North London.
Greyhounds were introduced to the United States in the mid 1890's primarily to control jack rabbits on the mid-western farms.