Greyhound health issues & breed care 

Are you a proud Greyhound owner, thinking about adopting one, or simply fascinated by this graceful breed? Greyhounds are fantastic pets that steal your heart with their soulful eyes. Still, being aware of potential health issues can help you give them the life they deserve. 

Famous for their gentle nature, sleek build, and lightning-fast speed, Greyhounds are affectionate companions with a calm and sensitive temperament. Still, like all purebred dogs, they come with a few health concerns that every Greyhound owner should be aware of.  

In this guide, we will explore common Greyhound health issues, breed-specific traits, and helpful care tips to keep your elegant companion thriving from puppyhood to their golden years. 

#Greyhound breed profile  

So, how long do Greyhounds live? Well, typically, Greyhounds enjoy a long life of 10 to 14 years. 

Greyhound health issues include sensitivity to allergies, which may appear as itchy skin or tummy upsets. A vet can help you manage Greyhound allergies if your pup starts scratching or licking. 

#Common health issues in Greyhounds 

While Greyhounds are generally healthy dogs, they can be prone to a few physical health concerns that you should watch for: 

##Physical issues   

• Greyhound hip problems: Though not as common as in some larger breeds, hip issues can occur – especially in older or retired racing Greyhounds. Signs include joint stiffness, difficulty getting up, or a reluctance to jump or climb stairs. 
• Back, spine and neck issues: A Greyhound’s long, slender frame can sometimes lead to spinal strain or neck discomfort, especially if they’ve had a previous injury. Some lower spinal issues can be confused with hip issues. 
• Polyneuropathy: This uncommon nerve disorder can lead to weakness, especially in the hind legs. This condition may cause Greyhound back leg problems and show up as unsteady movement or trembling. 
• Dental disease: Greyhounds are known for having sensitive teeth and gums, and being prone to dental disease. Without proper dental care, they can develop tartar buildup, gum disease, and tooth loss. 
• Osteosarcoma (Bone Cancer): Sadly, Greyhounds are more prone to this aggressive form of bone cancer, often in the limbs. Early signs may include persistent limping or swelling. 

##Stomach Issues 

Do Greyhounds have sensitive stomachs? Greyhounds can be prone to digestive upset and food intolerances. 

• Bloat (Gastric Torsion): A sudden, serious condition where the tummy fills with gas and twists. It's life-threatening and requires immediate veterinary attention. Using a slow feeder and raising the bowl so your long-legged pet isn’t stooping down to eat can help prevent bloat. Be sure to feed at sensible times in relation to exercise with your greyhound, and consider smaller meals more frequently. 
• Gastritis: A term used to describe when the stomach lining becomes inflamed, which can cause vomiting, loss of appetite and discomfort. Dog food allergies, stress, or changes in diet can trigger it. 
• Food sensitivities: Greyhounds' stomach problems include sensitive tummies that react poorly to certain ingredients or allergens in their food. Switching to a high-quality, easily digestible diet can help reduce or alleviate symptoms. 

##Skin issues and allergies 

Greyhounds have soft, silky-smooth coats but can experience skin problems and can suffer from allergies, too. Their sensitive skin can react to environmental factors like pollen, dust mites, or certain foods. 

Common Greyhound skin problems include: 

• Allergic dermatitis: Dermatitis in dogs causes redness, itching, and hair loss, particularly around the ears, paws, and belly. 
• Hot spots: The skin becomes irritated and inflamed, often caused by scratching and licking from allergies and can develop into open sores if not treated promptly.  
• Dry or flaky skin: Greyhounds can suffer from dry, flaky skin if exposed to allergens or environmental irritants. Regular moisturising and hypoallergenic shampoos can help manage this. 

So, are Greyhounds hypoallergenic? Unfortunately, the answer is no. They may shed less than some breeds because they don’t have an undercoat like many dogs. However, due to their dander and skin proteins, Greyhounds can still trigger allergic reactions. 

## Greyhound medical problems 

Greyhounds can be prone to corns. Hard bumps form inside the paw pads, starting as small dots that grow larger and eventually break through the pad.  

If untreated, corns can become painful, like having a pebble in your shoe. Treatment varies, but with proper care, Greyhounds can usually continue running around the fields at super speed.  

#Caring for a Greyhound 

Caring for a Greyhound means giving them plenty of love, lots of snuggles, regular exercise, a good diet and a warm, comfortable space to rest.   

##Diet and nutrition tips 

Like all dogs, a well-rounded Greyhound diet and nutrition plan should include high-quality protein to maintain lean muscle and energy. 

• Portion control: Greyhounds don’t require large meals, so follow portion recommendations based on your pup’s weight and activity level. 
• Healthy treats: Use treats in moderation during training, but opt for healthy, low-calorie options to avoid unnecessary weight gain. 
• Avoid human food: It’s best not to give your Greyhound table scraps, as some foods can upset their delicate stomachs. 

##Training and exercise tips

Do Greyhounds need a lot of exercise? Not really. They prefer short bursts of energy, like a mad zoomie around a field. Then, they’re ready for an afternoon snooze on the sofa.  

• Training: Short training sessions (5–10 minutes) are best to avoid tiring your pup out. Use food rewards to keep their attention. 
• Commands: Greyhounds find it challenging to “sit” due to their sleek build, so focus on teaching “stay” or “lie down” instead. 
• Leash Training: Due to a high prey drive, it’s best to keep small animals safe from your Greyhound. These serene dogs are mostly chilled on the leash unless they spot a fast-moving furry.  
• Muzzle Training: For greyhounds with a high prey drive, muzzle training with a well-fitting muzzle is a safety measure. If done properly, wearing a muzzle should be comfortable and not stressful for the dog and help reduce the risk of that prey drive causing harm.  

##Grooming tips 

Greyhounds have short, smooth coats that are super easy to care for – just a regular bath and an occasional rubdown with a damp cloth will do the trick. Their nails grow quickly, so trim them every few weeks to avoid discomfort.  

Check your dog's ears weekly for any wax or debris and give them a gentle clean if needed - follow our guide on how to clean your dog's ears. And don’t forget to brush their teeth regularly – every day if possible – with a dog-friendly toothpaste to keep those pearly whites in top shape. 

##Conclusion

Greyhounds are wonderful, loyal companions with unique needs, and with the proper care, they’ll thrive and bring endless joy to your life. From their diet to grooming and exercise, keeping this noble breed healthy and happy is about understanding what makes them happy (running and sleeping) and giving them plenty of love.