Greyhound dogs are best known for their speed and agility that makes them excellent race dogs. Some of their other talents include hunting, sighting, and being watchdogs. They have long sleek bodies and flexible spines that are curved. They have long necks that are very graceful, dark eyes and small ears that are folded back. Greyhounds have a unique quality of having perfectly straight front legs while their back legs are very muscular with an arched loin. Greyhound dogs can run at speeds of up to 40-45 miles per hour (70 km per hour). Male dogs are typically 28-30 inches (71-76 cm) tall and weigh about 65-70 pounds (29-32 kg). Females are somewhat smaller at 27-28 inches (68-71 cm) tall and a weight of 60-65 pounds (27-29 kg).

The short, smooth coat of the Greyhound comes in a variety of colors including black, white, gray, red, fawn, fallow, brindle, and blue. These colors may also appear with white in the coat as well. Their short, fine coats are easy to maintain with regular weekly combing. They should only be shampooed when necessary. To give the coat an added gleam, the owner can rub it with a chamois cloth from time to time
 Greyhounds are gentle, sensitive, loyal, and brave animals. They are very obedient, are good with children, and make good watchdogs. Their hunting background has instilled a strong desire to chase things however and it is wise to keep them on a leash when in a public place. These dogs are fairly easy to train if a gentle approach is used. Greyhounds form strong bonds with their owners and make wonderful family pets.

These dogs do well living in urban environments but do require moderate exercise on a regular basis. They are basically in active indoors but enjoy walking and running outside. There are no special requirements in feeding Greyhounds but it is best to feed them two small meals per day instead of one larger meal.
Greyhounds may be prone to bloating and sensitivity to drugs and insecticides. They have thin skin that is very sensitive and tears easily so you may want to check with a veterinarian before using flea-killing products on your pet. They may also be allergic to certain anesthetics. Greyhounds are one of the few breeds that typically do not suffer from hip dysplasia. The life expectancy is usually about 10-12 years.

This breed most likely descended from the Middle East or Europe and was noted as an excellent hunting dog. Today these dogs are primarily raised for racing. Their instinct to chase propels them to run around a track in order to “catch” a mechanical animal used as bait. Unfortunately, many dogs are destroyed after they retire from racing. This has prompted many rescue groups that seek out the gentle, even-tempered dogs and try to place them in good homes. Former race dogs can be adopted make great pets since most have been crate trained which helps them become easily housebroken as well. The average cost of these dogs varies depending on bloodlines, racing statistics, and other factors.