Cross Breeds

I'm thinking of adopting an ex-racing Greyhound. Can anyone tell me if a young or older dog would be best?

I work part time and am out 5 hours every week day. I live with my 9 year old daughter.

Public Comments

1. In my opinion, an older dog would be best. A young dog will need more training when you're not home and have a higher energy level. Most people go for the young ones, so it would also be nice to give an older dog a new home.
2. an older dog,they have to retire at 2yrs old and are no longer racing they obv get taken out of the kennels if your not at home much the dog will become depressed or suffer from seperation anxiety. they r very good with kids lovely and placid, just whatever you do if you do get one do NOT let it off the lead because they are not trained to come back to their name, if poss leave it with its racing name and dont change it. hope that helps
3. Talk to the rescue org, they will try to fit the right dog to you. Sighthounds, generally, are happier with their own kind around. Think about adopting 2, they don't take up much space.
4. Old dog as they have already developed their personality and are maybe less likely to get homes. I've heard that Greyhounds are very nice dogs but unfortunately lots of them end up in homes because the owners don't want them when they can't race anymore. I know Battersea Cats and Dog home always have lots of Greyhounds wanting new homes. The staff are very helpful and friendly there too.
5. Bless you for taking on a Greyhound they are lovely dogs and very much ignored.......after their racing days are over that is.
6. They are usually gentle with people but will kill cats and small dogs, rabbits and other pets by pulling them; two greyhounds will hunt together. So use proper greyhound muzzles when you're out with them. They are also NOT housetrained!!! And be warned, they leave pyramids for you. So learn about crate training. They are kept in kennels so its not cruel, they'll be used to it. If you decide to keep a pair then get one, settle it in then get another. And old ones are more difficult to rehome. They don't use their race names in the kennels so you can call them anything youu want. And please go to training classes, they are very difficult to train but at least have a go!
7. Racers generally retire between 2-5 years of age. More important than the actual age is the personality of the dog. There are many mature, laid back 2yos and hyper 5yos. In general males tend to be big, goofy, good-natured and calm. Females have more expansive personalities - they can be very pushy and dominant or skittish, nervous, needy or playful. The adoption representative from the group you decide to work with can discuss in detail the different personalities and temperments of the dogs that group has available. Adoption reps are an amazing source of knowledge and expereince - an invaluable tool when trying to decide on a dog.
8. Age shouldn't make as much of a difference as the background and temperament of the dog. Speak to the people at the rescue about any concerns you have and be as honest as possible. That way, they will be in a position to guide you towards the dog that is right for you. Good luck. P.S. My greyhound wasn't housetrained when we first got him, but he learned pretty quickly. If you're not sure how to train, there's plenty of useful books available in bookshops/libraries. P.P.S. We changed our dog's name when we got him - he learned to respond very quickly. Just call his/her new name, and when s/he comes to you, give a treat. Repeat until the dog has learned, and periodically afterwards. Simple.