Are the dogs housetrained?

As all our dogs have been in foster care first they will have started to be housetrained. Greyhounds that have been in kennels don't normally soil their bed space and so it usually does not take long for them to learn where they are to toilet once they come to live in a house. When your dog comes to live with you he will be unsettled and nervous of his new environment so be prepared for a few accidents until he has settled.

Do they need a lot of exercise?

Greyhounds were built for speed not stamina . It is a misconception that they require a lot of exercise as they are generally lazy dogs and often spend much of the day sleeping. Lurchers may require more exercise depending on the particular breed it is crossed with.

Can my dog be let off lead?

When you take your dog out keep him on lead for at least the first few months until he gets used to you and the areas he goes for walks. If and or when you feel it is time to try him off lead find a fully enclosed area with high fencing so the dog can't jump over it. Do not let your dog off lead in open areas until you have perfected his recall. Remember these dogs are bred to run and may have a high prey drive. If this is the case it might be that your dog may never be able to be let of the lead in open areas. As our dogs are fostered first, we will be able to advice you on the likelihood of letting your dog off lead.

Do they have to eat a special diet?

No, they eat the same amount and type of food any other dog their size would. If the dog has been a working dog and come from the track we recommend a dry complete food with a low protein content. (maximum 20%). Greyhounds are thin dogs and so cannot take the same amount of food in one sitting as other breeds can, they need two meals a day.

Are they good with children?

Greyhounds have a gentle nature and will go out of their way to avoid conflict. Although they tend to be very tolerant of children, like all dogs they have their limits. Your dog should have a place in the house where he can have his own personal space. Children should be taught that when he is in his bed he is to be left alone.

Can they live with other animals?

Yes, as we foster all the dogs before re-homing we are able to determine which dogs are happy to live with other animals. That does not mean to say that although your dog is fine with the animals in your household it would not chase your neighbours cat outside. This would be the case in any breed of dog. We recommend that a muzzle should be worn until you are 100% sure of your dog 's behaviour around other animals inside and outside your home.

Why do we supply you with a muzzle?

Greyhounds are used to wearing muzzles when racing or training at a track or when in kennels. We provide muzzles with all our dogs and advise new owners ensure their dog wears the muzzle at all times when outside and in new situations inside for at least the first several weeks. Some dogs should always wear their muzzle outdoors. The muzzle is not uncomfortable for the dog. It may look intimidating but, until you have built a trusting relationship with your dog, this is the safest situation for all concerned.

What does it cost to adopt?

Gracehounds asks for a donation when you adopt a dog which helps toward the cost of neutering, vaccinating and micro chipping. We are a non profit organisation that relies completely on public donation and fundraising.

If you  have any other questions please get in touch by:
email to gracehounds@googlemail.com
or telephone Lois on 07989963556 or Rhona on 07954213977.