Common Questions

What kind of pets do ex-racing Greyhounds make?

Greyhounds are affectionate, friendly dogs who thrive on attention and human companionship and make terrific pets. Raised with their littermates, where they competed for affection, Greyhounds love becoming the center of attention as household pets. Greyhounds do not usually make good watch dogs. Their friendly nature is not really very threatening.

Are they good with children?

Greyhounds are very gentle, patient dogs but we have found they get along better with children over the age of 5 who have a clear understanding of rules about and respect for animals. Greyhounds do not tolerate pulling, poking or children falling or laying on them - even a gentle Greyhound has his limits! They do excellent with children over 5 who are loving and respectful. Children need to be taught manners around the dog, just as the dog must learn his or her manners around the house. REGAP will not adopt a Greyhound to a family with any child under the age of 5.

How are they with other pets?

Greyhounds are friendly by nature and socialize well as a result of encounters with other Greyhounds in the racing kennel. Cats are unknown to a Greyhound and a little extra time and care are required to make a happy home for all.

How old are retired Greyhounds?

The retired racers are usually between two and four years old.

What is their life expectancy?

These pure-bred athletes enjoy many years of good health. With proper care, they have a life expectancy of 12 years or more.

How much does it cost to own a Greyhound?

Out adoption fee is $200.00. The average cost of just spaying/neutering and dental (teeth cleaning) in the Kansas City area is $225.00 so the $200.00 (which also covers shots and vaccinations and a lead and collar) does not even cover the medical costs incurred by KCREGAP to prepare greyhounds for adoption. Greyhounds, like any other dog, should be given regular veterinary care. It costs about $1.00 a day to feed a Greyhound. This may vary depending on a brand and feeding requirements.

Are ex-racing Greyhounds already housebroken?

Frequently an adopted Greyhound is completely housebroken right from the start. In their kennel environment they are "turned out" three or four times a day to relieve themselves. Therefore, racing Greyhounds are kennel-broken, which means they're trained to go outside and keep their kennels clean. Let them out frequently at first, and they quickly learn that their new home is the place they keep clean and outside is where they go to relieve themselves.

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