Whether you are adopting an ex-racing dog or welcoming a Greyhound puppy to your home, the following tips will help you provide the best home for your new dog and offer advice on how to care for his, or her, specific needs.

1. Greyhounds are known for being very gentle dogs that thrive in the company of humans. In fact, it can take no more than a few days for a Greyhound to become attached to you (even if you are adopting an adult dog). Of course, some individual dogs are more nervous than others are, but, generally, a Greyhound will quickly settle into a new home.

2. However, the Greyhound's predisposition to make quick bonds with human family members means that they dislike being left alone. Therefore, if you have a busy work and social life, it is perhaps unwise to consider owning a Greyhound. Dogs that are left alone for the majority of the day can become depressed or anxious and begin exhibiting signs of this by chewing your furniture.

3. Although racing dogs are often kept in outdoor kennels, it is not advisable to keep a Greyhound outside, especially if your location is susceptible to cold weather. Greyhounds have very little fat, which means, unlike large dogs, they struggle to remain warm in cool conditions. Even when going for a walk, it is advisable to provide a blanket or coat for your Greyhound.

4. Similarly, it is always wise to provide plenty of soft cushions and bedding, because Greyhounds can develop sores from lying on hard surfaces. Again, this is predominantly due to the lack of body fat. Therefore, you may find it beneficial to have a beanbag or something soft for your dog to sit on as well as his, or her, bed.

5. When adopting an ex-racing dog, some prospective owners are concerned that the dog will be difficult to housetrain. However, usually, outdoor dogs are released from their kennels at specific times to relieve themselves and stretch their legs. Subsequently, if this routine is continued at home, adoptive owners should have no problem housebreaking their new pet.

6. You should never take your dog out without a leash. Moreover, it is important to ensure that your yard is securely fenced. Greyhounds were originally bred as hunters and they will use their incredibly good distance vision to seek out small animals, such as rabbits. If a Greyhound catches a glimpse of a prospective chase he, or she, could be gone before you know anything about it. Therefore, it is imperative to keep your yard or garden secure and never let your dog out of your sight when exercising him, or her.

7. Having said that, it is a misconception to believe that Greyhounds cannot be integrated into a family with other animals, including cats and rabbits. If you are planning to purchase a Greyhound from puppyhood, then he, or she, will simple accept other animals in the home. When adopting a Greyhound, it is a good idea to enroll in socialization classes, which will help your dog to become accustomed to other breeds and other species.

8. Whether you are buying a puppy or adopting an adult dog, it is a good idea to spend plenty of time with him, or her, in the first few weeks. Greyhounds are intelligent and eager to please, so training is not difficult. However, it is a good idea to bear in mind that the breed does not respond well to an overbearing approach to training. A gentle hand and lots of positive reinforcement will prove very successful.

Greyhounds are gentle, lovable dogs and they make wonderful family pets. If you are considering welcoming a Greyhound into your life, please consider adopting an ex-racing dog that desperately needs a loving home