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Greyhound
Hound breed from Ancient Egypt/Middle East
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Greyhound
The Greyhound is a large hound breed with origins in Ancient Egypt and the Middle East. It is known for its tall, lean, and elegant build, designed for exceptional speed. Temperament traits include being gentle, calm, intelligent, affectionate, and independent. Energy and trainability are rated moderate (3 out of 5). Grooming and shedding are also moderate (3 out of 5). Suitability with children, other dogs, and apartment living is rated moderate (3 out of 5). Adult weight is estimated between 29–32 kg for both sexes, height 71–76 cm, and lifespan 10–13 years. Recognition status varies by registry.
Quick facts
Greyhound at a glance
Sizelarge
Breed groupHound
OriginAncient Egypt/Middle East
Lifespan10–13 years
Male weight29–32 kilogram
Female weight29–32 kilogram
Male height71–76 centimetre
Female height71–76 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Greyhound is an ancient sighthound breed whose origins trace back thousands of years to Ancient Egypt and the Middle East. Depictions of similar dogs appear in Egyptian, Greek, and Roman art, suggesting a long history alongside human civilization. The modern Greyhound was standardized in Great Britain, where it was used for coursing game and later for racing. It is often described as the fastest dog breed, though specific speed claims are not part of the supplied facts. The breed's exact timeline of development and recognition remains uncertain due to varying registry standards.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
29–32 kilogramAdult weight71–76 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesPendingCoat colorsPendingRecognitionvaries by registryData methodimported
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Gentlecalmintelligentaffectionateindependent
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Moderate compared with other breeds
Moderate compared with other breeds
Moderate compared with other breeds
Moderate compared with other breeds
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Greyhound-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Research in progress
Editorially reviewed pros and cons will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Similar breeds
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Related comparisons
Compare this breed
Growth chart
Greyhound puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight29–32 kilogramAdult female weight29–32 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of a Greyhound?
Based on estimated data, adult Greyhounds weigh 29–32 kg and stand 71–76 cm tall at the shoulder. Their lifespan is estimated at 10–13 years. These figures are modelled estimates and may vary.
What is the Greyhound's temperament like?
Greyhounds are described as gentle, calm, intelligent, affectionate, and independent. However, individual temperaments can vary, and not every dog will display all these traits consistently.
How much exercise does a Greyhound need?
Their energy level is rated 3 out of 5, indicating moderate exercise needs. While they are capable of bursts of speed, they are also known as '45-mph couch potatoes' and may be content with moderate daily activity.
What are the grooming requirements for a Greyhound?
Grooming needs are moderate (score 3 out of 5). Shedding is also moderate. Regular brushing and occasional baths should suffice, but individual coat care may vary.
Is a Greyhound suitable for families with children or other dogs?
Child suitability and dog compatibility are both rated 3 out of 5, suggesting moderate suitability. Some Greyhounds may do well with children and other dogs, but individual temperament and socialization play a significant role.
Can a Greyhound live in an apartment?
Apartment suitability is rated 3 out of 5, indicating it is possible but depends on the individual dog's exercise needs and temperament. They are generally calm indoors but require regular opportunities to run.
Where does the Greyhound originate from?
The breed's origins are traced to Ancient Egypt and the Middle East, with historical depictions in Egyptian, Greek, and Roman art. The modern Greyhound was standardized in Great Britain.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.