Greyhound
GRAY-hownd
Noble, Gentle, Independent, Calm. Originally bred for coursing hare and other game at high speed.
An adult Greyhound weighs 65-70 lbs (male) or 60-65 lbs (female), needs 830-1,310 calories daily, and lives 10-13 yrs. Large breeds need portion control and joint-conscious exercise, especially during growth. The breed's primary health watch is osteosarcoma. All numbers below come from AKC breed standards and NRC 2006 veterinary nutrition formulas.
Nutrition and feeding
A typical adult Greyhound needs 830 to 1,310 calories per day. An average male (68 lbs / 30.6 kg) needs around 1,090 kcal; a female (62 lbs / 28.4 kg) roughly 1,030 kcal. These estimates use the vet-standard RER/MER formula.
Estimate for a typical adult Greyhound. For puppies, seniors, or specific activity levels, use the full calorie calculator.
Health profile
Large breeds face a particular set of health challenges related to their size and growth rate. The Greyhound typically lives 10-13 yrs. The breed's primary health concerns are osteosarcoma and bloat, which responsible breeders screen for before breeding.
Exercise and activity
Surprisingly low for the world's fastest dog breed. Greyhounds are sprinters, not marathoners. A few short bursts of running and moderate daily walks satisfy them. They're famous couch potatoes at home. Hound breeds follow their noses (or eyes) with single-minded determination. Off-leash exercise for a Greyhound requires a securely fenced area because recall is unreliable when a scent captures their attention. Nose work, tracking games, and long leash walks through interesting environments channel their natural instincts constructively.
Care and traits
Greyhounds have a short, smooth, close-lying coat. Origin: Ancient (Egypt/Middle East).
The fastest dog breed, reaching 45 mph. Yet they're among the laziest house dogs. Retired racing Greyhounds make wonderful pets but may never have seen stairs, glass doors, or small animals before. Their thin skin tears easily. They're sensitive to cold and often need coats in winter. Anesthesia protocols must be adjusted for Greyhounds due to their unique physiology.
Grooming needs are minimal. A weekly brushing to remove loose hair and distribute skin oils is sufficient for most Greyhounds. Bathing is only needed when the dog is noticeably dirty or smelly.
Tools for Greyhound owners
Frequently asked questions
Expect to feed your Greyhound between 830 and 1310 calories per day. A 68-pound individual falls near the middle of that range. Growth-phase nutrition matters enormously for large breeds. Puppies need controlled growth to protect developing joints. Active hunting hounds burn significantly more than the resting estimate. Adjust for actual activity level. Use our calorie calculator with your dog's actual weight for a personalized number.
Males typically weigh 65-70 lbs (29.5–31.8 kg). Females run lighter at 60-65 lbs (27.2–29.5 kg). Large breeds carry weight in the midsection and over the ribs. A visible waist from above and a tuck behind the ribs when viewed from the side indicate healthy condition. The best home assessment is the rib test: place your thumbs on the spine and spread your fingers across the ribs. You should feel each rib individually. If you have to press to find them, the dog is carrying extra weight.
The Greyhound's most notable breed-specific vulnerability is osteosarcoma. Bone cancer appears more frequently in large and giant breeds. Watch for persistent limping, swelling, or reluctance to bear weight. Early detection improves treatment options. Other conditions seen in the breed include bloat, corns on paw pads, dental disease. Awareness of these breed tendencies allows for early intervention, which often improves outcomes significantly.
Most Greyhounds are content with 20 to 30 minutes of daily exercise. Good activities for this breed include scent trails, tracking games, long rural walks. Mental stimulation through training and puzzle toys is as important as physical exercise for this breed. Even low-energy breeds need daily movement for joint health, weight management, and mental well-being.
Disclaimer: General breed information based on AKC standards and veterinary sources. Individual dogs vary. Calorie estimates use the RER/MER formula (NRC 2006). Consult your veterinarian for advice specific to your dog. See our sources.
Last reviewed: April 1, 2026