Why choose a retired greyhound?

No, they’re actually quite lazy! Greyhounds are relaxed and chilled out characters who only need a couple of short walks a day. Usually around 20 minutes.

No country estate required! Many greyhounds are adopted by people in smaller homes or flats. You don’t even need a garden, as long as you can take them out for a short walk. In fact, in their article, Paws in the City, the Evening Standard declared greyhounds to be one of the best pets for city living: “If you’re a newbie owner and looking for a relatively easy dog to manage, a greyhound is the perfect dog. I call them the world’s fastest couch potato. They truly are friendly, peaceful souls.”[1] (Adam Spivey, Southend Training)

[1] Paws in the City article by Layla Turner, Evening Standard, 11^th September 2023

Unlikely. Greyhounds can sometimes sleep up to 20 hours a day and love nothing more than a cuddle.

Every dog is unique and it’s important to find that perfect bond, but greyhounds are known to be affectionate, loving, relaxed – and also a bit on the goofy side.

You won’t get much choice in the matter! Cuddle is their middle name. They’re hugely affectionate, and despite their sleek, athletic build, they love to curl up and snuggle with you.

Yes, they can be. But they’re gentle giants. Their size can also vary, but it does not dictate their temperament. Often a large male could be a calmer character than a smaller female. And you’ll be amazed how small they can be when they curl up.

In fact, it’s the opposite. They’re loving and affectionate companions who imprint and bond for life. They’re more likely to melt your heart. Read more

They’re not. Retired greyhounds aren’t looking to be rescued, they’re looking for their first forever family – and they have a lot of love to give.

Not at all. Their racing careers are short. On average they are usually around three to four years old when they’re ready for adoption. Some may even be younger if they weren’t interested in racing.

Because people don’t know what they’re missing. Our human misconceptions have got in the way of what could turn out to be one of life’s most beautiful friendships. And we’re here to fix that.

With careful training, many greyhounds can live quite happily with cats and other pets. The homing centre you choose will be able to advise you on this and help match you with a greyhound which is perfect for your family.

They do! While temperament will be top of your list when choosing a greyhound, they come in a variety of stunning coat colours – from black and white to fawn, blue and brindle. There are often more black greyhounds looking for their forever homes and these beautiful dogs shouldn’t be overlooked.

As an owner of a retired greyhound, you will be the proud owner of a pet with history. Whether they were a top-class athlete or more of a slow coach, you can look back on their career, research their pedigree and you may even be able to watch videos of them whizzing past the finish line!

These amazing dogs find their perfect homes through a network of homing centres that are approved by the sport’s regulator, the Greyhound Board for Great Britain (GBGB), ensuring the centres uphold the highest standards of welfare. Along with the regulator, every racing owner pays towards the cost of finding their athlete a forever home when it’s time for them to swap the track for the sofa.