FOR PEOPLE WHO WILL BE
”BEST FRIENDS OF GREYHOUNDS”
Something About Me
I am a trained athlete and have “earned my biscuits”. Now I’m retired. I could be anywhere from just under two years to four or five years old, depending on how successful I was on the track. I may be male or female, and I come in a variety of colors, all of them beautiful!
My breed has a Hall of Fame in Abilene, Kansas. I’m a descendent of an ancient breed that goes back to the Celts and further, in old England. The saying was: “You could tell a gentleman by his horse and his greyhound”. Common fold could not own me. Look at the old paintings of hunting feasts and you’ll find my ancestors. The term “Greyhound” has nothing to do with color. It’s old English (Anglo-Saxon) Gre-hundt (rough), supposedly “Dog Hunter,” or order of rank, which was high. I think you’ll agree I’ve got class. Now I look to you to help me adjust to my retirement.
Things to Know
Basically, I’m a dog like all others, but have some unique characteristics:
-I’ve been trained to chase mechanical lures (sight trained), not live (blood trained)
-I am not a vicious predator, as many people believe
-I love people. I’m more accustomed to people than most other breeds
-I tend to be quite sociable
-I possess superior intelligence
My physical size means I am a “big puppy” and quite swift.
I am easily trained, and will try very hard to please.
I am quizzical, shy (sometimes) and very sensitive. I’m also surprisingly gentle.
I know other greyhounds, but not other breeds or cats.
I do not know how to defend myself.
I have keen eyesight, hearing and sense of smell.
Sleeping is fun. I have to unfold when rising.
I like riding in cars.
I do not bite, but I may show affection like a wolf, with mouth agape and gently grasping. I’ll also lick your hand.
I love with my whole body and may rub up like a cat.
Because of my large chest and heart and my short coat, I feel the cold and should have a jacket during the winter. (No dog should be left out in the cold, unless a musher.)
I am used to a leash and love to walk. If necessary, I will learn to heel. I’m happy to walk or even run at your speed.
I rarely bark (unless it’s time for a walk) and will learn to tell you that I wish to be with you.
I am a little confused but willing to learn.
I don’t know how to sit, climb staircases or play people games, but I will learn.
I love to run (I tried to pay my own way.)
I’ll be a wonderful family companion once I’ve learned what’s expected of me.
GREYHOUND FRIENDS OF NJ, INC - 732-356-4370
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Will my greyhound be altered before I adopt it?
Yes, all the greyhounds we place are altered, inoculated, checked for heartworms and have their teeth cleaned.
Q. How long does the adoption process take?
We start our adoption process as soon as we receive your application. It usually takes 1 to 3 weeks for you to get your dog giving you plenty of time to get ready.
Q. Are greyhounds compatible with other animals?
Yes, most of the dogs we place can live happily with cats and other small animals but all our greys are tested to insure that they are "cat safe". They also enjoy the company of other dog breeds. Naturally, there are always exceptions so indicate what animals you currently have on the application so we can find the best match. Greyhounds are very gentle and non-aggressive so they may not defend themselves if attacked.
Q. How do I pay the Application Fee/Adoption Fee?
The Application Fee can be paid by going through the On-Line Cart found on the Home Page of the GFNJ website. When you adopt this fee will be deducted from the Adoption Fee. You can pay the Adoption Fee by cash, check or credit card.
Q. Do I have to buy a crate? Or can I rent one?
Crates can be purchased through GFNJ. If you buy your own crate, make sure you get the proper size which allows your dog to turn around, stand up, lay down and stretch out fully on his side with room to spare.
Q. Can I let my greyhound run loose on my property?
Greyhounds must be on a leash unless in a fenced yard. Even the most loving and loyal grey will run given the chance so be sure not to leave your doors open either. In two or three strides they are up to 45 MPH and you won't catch them. Greyhounds, like all Sight Houndscan see clearly for more than half a mile and their attention can easily be captured by any small animal or motion. They are not street wise, and do not consider the traffic. Greyhounds cannot find their way home after a romp on the loose.
Q. What supplies do I need for the dog?
Leash and collar (a special martingale collar made especially for greyhounds and leash is included in the adoption fee), crate, bowls, blanket or bed, and a healthy dog food like Purina Pro Plan.
Q. Are greyhounds good with kids?
Yes, as long as your kids are good with animals. Children should be taught to respect your dog always, but it is especially important while your ex-racer adjusts to life in a house. These gentle dogs make wonderful companions for everyone but they may need some time to get used to your family...they've never had one before.
Q. How long can a greyhound be left alone?
When you first bring your grey home, it's best that you spend a couple days together while he learns about your house. Remember, it's all new to them. After a few days, a grey can be left alone for eight to nine hours. Any longer, we advise that you get a dog walker.
Q. How long do they live?
With proper care, a greyhound generally lives 12-14 years.
Q. Are they hyper?
No, some people are surprised to learn that these ex-racers are very calm and actually couch potatoes in the home. They do not require any more exercise than any other dog breed, in fact, there many breeds that require more than a greyhound.
Q. What is the typical size of a greyhound?
Males weigh between 65 to 85 pounds and stand 26 to 30 inches tall at the shoulder. Females weigh 50 to 65 pounds and stand 23 to 26 inches tall at the shoulder. A Greyhound is a large dog, but their movements are graceful. This breed is not in-your-face and in-your-way every minute of the day. They often curl up in a tight ball when they sleep and are happy to just be in the same room with their person. Because of this they tend to fit into the household routine quickly.
Q. How old are the dogs and can I get either gender?
Most of greyhounds we place are from 2 to 5 years old which is when they generally end their racing career. We do get older dogs that may have been used for breeding or have come back to us from a family that can no longer care for them. All make great pets. Males and females are always available.
Q. Are greyhounds suited to apartment living?
Yes, their quiet nature is perfect for apartments as long as they get a walk everyday. Most greyhound owners will tell you that their dog spends most of the day sleeping.