Greyhounds are known for their speed, elegance, and gentle nature. Originally bred for racing, many Greyhounds now retire into loving homes—and they make surprisingly calm and affectionate companions.
If you’re considering adopting a Greyhound in Burlington, here’s everything you should know to decide if this graceful, low-maintenance breed is the right fit for you.
🐕 Temperament: Calm, Gentle, and Affectionate
Greyhounds are often described as:
- Quiet and well-mannered
- Affectionate, especially once bonded
- Shy or reserved with new people or environments
- Not prone to barking or hyperactivity
Though they’re famous for racing, most retired Greyhounds are low-key couch potatoes. They’re graceful but goofy, and incredibly sweet.
🧠 Trainability: Willing but Sensitive
Greyhounds are intelligent but may be unfamiliar with typical household routines:
- Most ex-racers are kennel-trained, but may need time to adjust to home life
- Respond well to positive reinforcement and gentle handling
- May be startled by loud noises or fast movements at first
They are generally easy to live with, but patience and routine are essential, especially early on.
⚡ Energy Level: Surprisingly Low
Despite being bred for speed, Greyhounds are very relaxed indoors:
- Enjoy a couple of short walks or quick bursts of play daily
- Love lounging on soft beds and relaxing near their people
- Nicknamed “40 mph couch potatoes” for a reason
They don’t need a large yard—just space for short runs and regular strolls. Many do well in condos or apartments with access to nearby green space.
🧼 Grooming & Shedding
Greyhounds are incredibly low-maintenance when it comes to grooming:
- Minimal shedding due to their short, sleek coat
- Occasional baths and weekly brushing are usually enough
- Regular nail trimming is important (they grow fast!)
- May need sweaters in cold weather—they have thin skin and little body fat
They’re clean dogs with little odor, making them a great choice for people who want a tidy companion.
🩺 Health Considerations
Greyhounds are generally healthy, but there are a few breed-specific concerns:
- Sensitivity to anesthesia and some medications (due to low body fat)
- Thin skin—cuts and scrapes happen easily
- Bloat, although rare, can be a risk
- Dental issues are common—daily brushing or dental chews help
With proper care, most Greyhounds live 10–14 years and age gracefully.
🏡 Lifestyle Fit
Ask yourself:
- Do I want a quiet, calm dog that doesn’t require hours of activity?
- Can I offer soft spaces, patience, and a gentle environment?
- Am I okay with a dog that may not want to be off-leash in unfenced areas?
Greyhounds do great with singles, couples, or families who want a mellow companion. They’re also ideal for retirees or first-time dog owners looking for a low-maintenance friend.
🍗 Feeding & Nutrition
Greyhounds have a fast metabolism but small appetites:
- Most eat 2–4 cups per day, depending on size and activity
- Choose a balanced, high-quality kibble (or raw diet if vet-approved)
- Some need extra joint support or fat to maintain a healthy weight
Feed them in a quiet area and avoid exercise right after meals to reduce the risk of bloat.
🐾 Puppy vs. Retired Racer
Greyhound puppies are rare and much more energetic than adults:
- Require more exercise, training, and socialization
- Typically only available through specialized breeders
Retired racing Greyhounds are more common and much easier to live with:
- Usually 2–5 years old
- Crate-trained, leash-walked, and often very calm indoors
- Available through breed-specific rescues
🧬 Adoption vs. Breeder in Ontario
Adoption:
- Most Greyhounds in Canada are adopted through rescues like Greyhounds in Need of Adoption (GiNA) or Adopt-A-Greyhound Ontario
- Rescues usually provide medical care, spay/neuter, and support during the transition
Breeder:
- Greyhound breeders are rare and typically focus on racing or show lines
- Not recommended unless you’re seeking a performance or show dog
Final Thoughts
Greyhounds are gentle, affectionate, and surprisingly low-key. They love routine, quiet companionship, and comfy places to nap. If you’re looking for a relaxed dog that’s loyal without being clingy, a retired Greyhound could be the perfect addition to your home.
🐶 Thinking About a Greyhound in Burlington?
At Playday Pups, we’ve cared for retired racing Greyhounds and family-raised pups alike. If you’re considering adopting a Greyhound or need a calm, small-group daycare while you’re at work, we’re happy to help.
📍 Located near Guelph Line & Mainway, Burlington
📞 (905) 230-2541 | ✉️ hello@playdaypups.ca
🔗 Register your Greyhound today at playdaypups.ca
Playday Pups is a boutique dog daycare and home-like boarding service located in Burlington, Ontario. Owned and operated by Tara and Dave, we specialize in creating a fun, safe, and structured environment where dogs can play, relax, and thrive. Whether you’re looking for dog daycare during the workweek or dog boarding for overnight stays, we provide personalized care for every pup. Ready to join the pack? Start by filling out our dog registration form.
☎️ (905) 230-2541 | 📨 hello@playdaypups.ca | 🚗 1234 Advance Rd, Burlington Google MAP
