SPCA Science Team

Frequently asked questions about living with greyhounds

Are greyhounds good pets?

Greyhounds can make excellent pets for a wide range of households. Many people are surprised to discover that greyhounds are often calm, affectionate, and gentle dogs who enjoy relaxing at home and forming strong bonds with their people.

Like all dogs, greyhounds are individuals. Their personalities, experiences, and needs can vary, so it is important to consider whether a greyhound is a good match for your lifestyle and household.

With patience, consistency, and positive support, many greyhounds successfully transition to life as companion animals and become valued members of the family.

Can greyhounds live with cats?

Some greyhounds can successfully live with cats, while others may not be suitable companions for feline households.

Greyhounds have been bred to chase moving objects, and some may have a strong instinct to pursue small animals. However, this does not mean every greyhound will chase cats or be unsuitable for a home with feline companions. Some greyhounds can learn to live safely with cats, particularly when they are carefully matched, introduced gradually, and supported with appropriate training and management.

The personality and behaviour of the cat is also an important factor. A confident, calm cat that is comfortable around dogs may be more likely to successfully share a home with a greyhound than a fearful or highly reactive cat.

If introducing a greyhound to a cat, introductions should be slow and carefully managed. Providing safe spaces for the cat, supervising interactions, and allowing both animals time to adjust can help set everyone up for success.

Households with cats should seek advice from an organisation experienced in assessing and matching greyhounds with companion homes.

Can greyhounds live with other dogs?

Many greyhounds can live happily with other dogs. Their experiences around other dogs mean many are comfortable sharing space with canine companions.

However, like all dogs, greyhounds have individual preferences. Some may enjoy the company of other dogs, while others may prefer to be the only dog in the household.

When introducing a greyhound to another dog, it is important to take things slowly. Meeting in a neutral location, supervising interactions, and allowing both dogs time to develop a positive relationship can help create a successful introduction.

Can greyhounds live with children?

Greyhounds are typically gentle, quiet, and affectionate dogs, and many can make wonderful companions for families with children.

As with any dog, interactions between children and greyhounds should always be supervised. Children should be taught how to interact respectfully with dogs, including giving them space when they are eating, resting, or sleeping.

As with all dogs, some greyhounds may be sensitive to sudden movements or loud noises, so calm and positive interactions are important.

Find out more about dog safety on our Kid’s Portal.

Can greyhounds live in an apartment or small house?

Yes. Greyhounds can live happily in smaller homes or apartments, provided their physical and behavioural needs are met.

Although greyhounds are capable of incredible speed, many are surprisingly relaxed at home. They often spend much of their time resting and may be happy to curl up after a walk.

Many greyhounds are relatively quiet dogs and may bark less frequently than some other breeds, making them well suited to a range of living environments. They still need regular opportunities for exercise, enrichment, and exploring their surroundings through walks and sniffing.

Do greyhounds have any special care needs?

Greyhounds have some physical characteristics that make their care different from many other breeds.

They have short, fine coats and low body fat, which means they can feel the cold more easily than some dogs. Many greyhounds benefit from wearing a coat or dog sweater during colder weather to help keep them comfortable.

Some greyhounds may have previous injuries or age-related changes that require ongoing management. A veterinary check after joining a new household can help identify any health needs and establish an appropriate care plan.

Greyhounds are particularly prone to dental disease, so maintaining good dental hygiene is important. Regular tooth brushing, dental checks, and veterinary advice can help support their oral health.

Like all dogs, greyhounds benefit from a balanced diet, regular veterinary care, parasite prevention, and opportunities for exercise and enrichment.

Do greyhounds have any special behaviours?

Greyhounds can have some unique and endearing behaviours that make them special companions.

One well-known greyhound behaviour is roaching. This is when a greyhound lies on their back with their legs in the air, often looking extremely relaxed and comfortable. Not every greyhound roaches, but many greyhound guardians find it a delightful part of their dog’s personality.

Some greyhounds also display the greyhound lean, where they gently lean their body weight against a person, often as a way of seeking affection, connection, or reassurance. Many greyhound guardians describe the lean as one of the most special parts of living with these affectionate dogs.

Another commonly recognised behaviour is teeth chattering, where a greyhound’s teeth gently chatter or vibrate. This is often seen when greyhounds are excited, happy, anticipating something enjoyable, or responding to interesting smells. Many greyhound guardians find this charming behaviour a unique expression of their dog’s personality.

Greyhounds may also display behaviours that reflect their previous experiences and adjustment to life in a home environment. Some may need time to learn household routines, become comfortable with new sounds and environments, or adjust to being left alone.

Some greyhounds may show a behaviour known as sleep startle, where they react suddenly if they are disturbed while sleeping or resting. It is important to allow greyhounds to wake naturally and avoid touching or startling them when they are asleep.

Some greyhounds may also experience separation-related distress or anxiety-related behaviours. Signs may include pacing, vocalising, destructive behaviour, or difficulty settling when left alone.

Positive reinforcement training, predictable routines, and gradual introductions to new experiences can help greyhounds feel secure. If behavioural concerns arise, support from a qualified behaviour professional, such as a CANZ-accredited behaviour consultant, can provide tailored advice and support.

Helping your greyhound settle in

Every greyhound will adjust to companion life at their own pace. Providing a safe environment, a predictable routine, positive training, and time to settle can help them develop confidence.

With understanding and appropriate care, greyhounds can thrive as loving companions and become an important part of the family.