Socialisation
Greyhounds are the prototypical
sighthound, a group of hounds that pursue their
prey by sight rather than scent. As with all
sighthounds, greyhounds have a very strongly
developed chase instinct. In spite of this, it is
possible for greyhounds to peacefully coexist
with other pets including cats and dogs.
This racing instinct is based on a
well-developed prey drive which is why a muzzle
is always supplied to our new owners and we ask
that you use it for the first few weeks or until
you are sure that your dog is safe without it.
Greyhounds are used to wearing this equipment and
it is usually the new owners who find it strange
but this allows you to approach other animals and
test your dogs reactions safely.
People might have seen us out and
wondered why some of our dogs are still muzzled -
this is simply a sensible precaution when dealing
with the number of dogs we have. As with any
breed when you have more than two dogs you have a
pack and pack instincts apply. Try and socialise
your dog as much as possible, but be patient
remember in most cases your greyhound will never
have met any breed but his own.
If you are taking a greyhound home
to meet a family cat, introduce them immediately
with the dog muzzled. Hopefully the cat will let
him know that he was there first and gain respect
, but always be aware especially if the cat
decides to run.
We ourselves have a few dogs that
would not mix with certain breeds but this is a
manageable situation. It is up to you to judge
when or if your dog can go off the lead. You may
even take your dog up to a training school just
to let him know there are other breeds of dog.
This is the same as you would do with a puppy
only sadly these dogs do not get a puppyhood so
it is all new to them.
Considering greyhounds lead a life
whereby their main contact is with their own or
their trainers, they seem to be especially good
with children. In all cases interaction with any
dog (not only greyhounds) and children, no matter
how trustworthy either are, should be supervised.
Greyhounds are primarily a sprinting
breed rather than an endurance one. They are
happy with a minimum of two twenty minute walks a
day but will take more. The rest of the time they
are quite content to lie on your couch.
If you would like any of us from
Greyhound Rescue to be with you the first time
you allow your dog off the lead please do not
hesitate to contact us, we shall be only too
happy to accompany you. A few tasty treats in
your pocket e.g. cheese or sausage is a very good
idea to tempt your dog back.
Always make sure your dog has a
house collar which he keeps on permanently with a
name tag with your telephone number, address and
the dogs name. This should also apply to the
collar he wears to go out in, in fact it is
illegal not to have this identification. You can
obtain a disc from the Pet Cabin at Queens Road
who make them up while you wait or you can order
them from your vets or some other pet stores.
G&M Hickmott 2007©
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