Greyhound
The Greyhound is said to be the oldest pure breed in existence today. Records dating back from 4000 to 7000 years depict the Greyhound much as it is today. The breed originated in the Middle East and traveling nobles brought the dogs with them as gifts of esteem. In this way, the breed spread throughout the European continent and the Orient long before Christianity. The breed's main function was as a sporting and hunting dog. It was used to hunt stag, fox, gazelle, and hare. In Britain, in 1858, the National Coursing Club was formed, and the Greyhound was one of the main contenders in the sport. Shortly after, Greyhound racing became popular in England, the States and Australia and was seen as a more humane sport, as the dogs chased a mechanical lure as opposed to a live hare. While the breed is not suited to confined living conditions, it makes an excellent family member. It still maintains its original instincts to run and hunt, therefore regular, supervised outdoor runs are required. In the States, adoption programs exist for racing Greyhounds who have passed their peak and need retirement homes.
Height: 28 - 30" (71.1 - 71.1cm) for dogs, 27 - 28" (68.6 - 68.6cm) for bitches
Weight: 65 - 70 lbs (29 - 29 kg) for dogs, 60 - 65 lbs (26.8 - 26.8 kg) for bitches
Coat Type: The coat is short, smooth and close. It is firm in texture. All colors and markings are acceptable. Some common colors include black, white, red, blue or buckskin. A regular rubdown keeps the coat shiny and healthy.
Temperament: The Greyhound is intelligent, sensitive, loyal, brave and makes a good family pet.
Health Problems: Greyhounds tend to get pressure sores if they only have a hard surface to lie down on.
Special Interest: The world's most famous Greyhound was an Irish dog named Mick the Miller. During the 1930's, he won 46 out of 61 races, which is a record that still stands today. As well, the Greyhound holds two world records according to the Guinness Book of Records: the longest jump at 30' (9.1 m), and the fastest dog clocked just under 42 mph (67 kph).
Classifications:
AKC: Group 2 - Hounds
CKC: Group 2 - Hounds
KC: Sporting - Hound Group
FCI: Group 10
ANKC: Group 4 - Hounds
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