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Greyhound: temperament, health and care
Greyhound: temperament, exercise and grooming needs, common health problems and who this dog suits.
This is general information for the UK. It is not veterinary or legal advice, and every animal is different. Speak to a vet about your pet's health. The Be Pet Wise app can also show rules for other countries.
At a glance
| Size | Large, about 25–40 kg |
|---|---|
| Typical lifespan | 10–14 years |
| Exercise | Moderate: two walks a day and a chance to run in a safe area |
| Grooming | Very short coat; minimal grooming, but they feel the cold |
Temperament and who it suits
Gentle, calm and often very lazy indoors.
Often suits: many homes, including flats; many pet greyhounds are retired racers.
They have a strong chase instinct, so keep them on a lead unless in a secure area.
Health problems to know about
- Dental disease
- Bone cancer (osteosarcoma)
- Corns on the paw pads
Individuals vary. Ask breeders about health testing, and keep up with vet checks, vaccination and weight control.
Before you get a Greyhound
- See the puppy with its mother, where it was born
- Ask about health tests on the parents for the conditions above
- Check it is microchipped and registered by eight weeks old
- Consider adopting: breed rescues and rehoming centres often have dogs of this breed looking for homes
See buying a puppy or kitten: Lucy's Law and your rights.
Care, law and costs
See our general guide to dogs for feeding, the law in the UK, what it costs and emergencies, and our guides to microchipping law and toxic foods and plants.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a Greyhound live?
A Greyhound typically lives 10–14 years. Individual health, diet and weight all matter.
How much exercise does a Greyhound need?
Moderate: two walks a day and a chance to run in a safe area.
What health problems are common in a Greyhound?
Common concerns include dental disease, bone cancer (osteosarcoma) and corns on the paw pads. Ask breeders about health testing, and keep up with vet checks.
How much grooming does a Greyhound need?
Very short coat; minimal grooming, but they feel the cold.
Who does a Greyhound suit?
It often suits many homes, including flats; many pet greyhounds are retired racers. They have a strong chase instinct, so keep them on a lead unless in a secure area.
Similar dogs
Sources
- The Royal Kennel Club: breed information and health schemes
- BSAVA: Microchipping legislation in the UK
- Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council: Lucy's Law
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Open Be Pet WiseBrowse all guidesReviewed 2026-09-23. General information for the UK, not veterinary or legal advice. See how we check.