Frequently asked questions

Q: What ages are available and what is the life expectancy of a racing greyhound?

A: Most are from 2 to 5 years of age. The adaptable, stable and loving nature of the greyhound predisposes it for an easy transition to companion dog regardless of age. Generally, the younger greyhounds will be somewhat more active, while the 4 to 5 years old will be more quiet and well mannered. The life expectancy of the greyhound is 12 to 15 years.

Q:What is the size of a racing greyhound?

A: Racing greyhounds stand between 24 and 29 inches tall at the shoulder. They weigh between 50 and 80 pounds. Generally, the females are somewhat smaller than the males.

Q: Are greyhounds good with children?

A: They are better than most breeds, but not as tolerant as some. If a child becomes overbearing, they will usually walk away rather than snap or growl. However, every dog has its limits. Because greyhounds are gentle by nature, most are fine with children 8 years or older who have been taught a respect for animals. Most adoption groups are hesitant to place any breed of dog in a family with toddlers unless there are specific assurances that strict parental supervision will be provided over both the child and the dog. Here at AGW, if you have children under the age of 7, and you wish to adopt a greyhound through us, you will need to read Childproofing Your Dog by Brian Kilcommons BEFORE we will consider your application for adoption.

Q: How are they with other pets?

A: Greyhounds are friendly by nature and tend to socialize well with other dogs as a result of encounters with other greyhounds at the racing kennel. They quickly learn to live harmoniously with cats and small dogs but introductions should be carefully monitored. Being sight hounds, greyhounds will instinctively chase anything fast-moving. Our greyhounds are cat-tested and provided with a muzzle to use during the introductory period.

Q: Do greyhounds need much exercise?

A: A greyhound needs no more exercise than an average dog. If you do not have a fenced-in yard, they should be taken out on lead at least four times a day to relieve themselves and, whenever possible, walked for the sheer enjoyment of being with their owners. If possible, greyhounds enjoy an occasional brief sprint in a safely enclosed area.

Q: Can my greyhound live outside?

A: Greyhounds are strictly INDOOR dogs and our program will not adopt to anyone who plans to keep the dog outside. Their entire lives at the racetrack have been spent INSIDE the racing kennel, where it's warm in winter and cool in summer. An ex-racing greyhound does not have the undercoat of fur that other breeds have and feels heat and cold much as humans do. We place greyhounds as house pets, which means the house. Not the garage, the back porch, an outside kennel…

Q: Can I use an overhead run or tie them out on a chain or rope??

A: NO!! Greyhounds can never be tied out on a chain, rope, or tied out on any type of overhead run. They can accelerate very quickly and break their neck once they reach the end of the line.

Q: Do greyhounds make good guard dogs?

A: They are not guard dogs. Greyhounds rarely bark. It has been said that the only way a greyhound would harm a burglar is if he he trips over your greyhound in the dark. However, their size tends to make intruders think twice about targeting you or your home. Lastly, if you are lucky enough to have a "smiler", well, there is your guard dog.