Does my greyhound need to eat at an adjusted height?

Yes, you can buy raised eating bowl/s (water and food) that is about step height. Such as K-mart. Otherwise you can utilise a sturdy raised surface such as a milk crate to place food bowl on.

How do I know if my greyhound is maintaining their weight?

An easy way to measure this would be when he/she first arrives, place a piece of string around the girth of your dog and cut it at that point. Once a week you can check whether the string is fitting the same, is loose or tighter and adjust diet quantity accordingly.

It is very important that you aim to maintain as close as possible to your greyhounds racing weight. Aim for 1-2 kgs over race weight is sufficient. Overweight greyhounds are at high risk of developing health complications.

Where should my greyhound sleep?

This depends on how the foster carer has trained your greyhound (usually in the room with you, or a designated area). They will need to adjust to any area you provide them, so allow time for them to learn this new way of sleep time.

Can I crate train my greyhound?

Yes you can, if you choose to crate train, we suggest using a octagon puppy type pen, use the corner of a room, spread the pen out and around the corner, wall to wall. This provides a good space for your greyhound to sleep in, turn around a million times and still be able to stretch out. This is easily removed and stored if you wish to take it down in the morning, or when your greyhound has adjusted to sleeping in its new home.

Having a pen when you have young children is also a good idea as it is a safe option for your greyhound to go to if he/she feels they need “alone” time. It is also a safe space that your child/ren can learn that he/she should be left alone if they have chosen to go in there at any point during the day or night.

What type of bedding?

Your greyhound will adjust to the bedding of your choice. However, they certainly appreciate a good plush bed. It is ideal to purchase a bed that is not enclosed on the sides as they are obviously quite long and like to get into some ‘odd’ sleeping positions.

When does my greyhound need to wear a coat?

Greyhounds are temperature sensitive. Greyhounds are particularly susceptible to heat stress and heat stroke due to their slender bodies. They have little body fat, and this means insulating themselves (either keeping warm or staying cool) can be a challenge.

It is recommended if the weather is 12 degrees or lower, they will need to wear their coat especially if your house is cooler. It will pay to have a second coat on hand as “accidents can happen” particularly with boys and can accidently pee on their coat. This can be avoided if you fold the coat over halfway up their back.

Ideal temperature is 18-24 degrees celsius. Providing access inside above these temperatures is recommended OR ensuring access to shade if placed outside.

What does it mean if my greyhound ‘collects’ objects?

Greyhounds are naturally curious creatures, always eager to explore their surroundings. Collecting objects allows them to investigate and interact with their environment more deeply. Their inquisitive nature compels them to pick up and examine various items, satisfying their curiosity and providing mental stimulation. But rarely do they chew these objects. Chewing can be a sign of stress and/or boredom.

How will I know if my greyhound is stressed and/or bored?

Chewing behaviours, barking, whining, scratching at doors or window (this could also be separation anxiety) these are just a few of the issues that can arise. If you see this behaviour beginning, please contact BTG for assistance. We will provide some information to assist or point you in the right direction for a behavioural trainer.

How long do I need to walk my greyhound?

15-30 minutes per day (never within 30 minutes before OR after eating) due to high risk of bloat which large and extra large dogs are susceptible to (which can kill your greyhound).

Never walk them in temperatures above 28‐30 degrees celcius.

They should also never be walked with jackets or shirts on. Their body heats up during walking and if wearing a jacket, can make them over heat

Are they strong on the lead?

Yes, they can be, but should always be taught to walk beside you, never in front. Most carers have already taught them this.

Will they chase everything?

Your greyhound should never be let off the lead in an unfenced area as they can still chase (this is what is built into them). However, when on lead they have been taught to control this and are social with other animals. REMEMBER when the eyes turn ON, the ears turn OFF.

Can I let my greyhound off in a fenced dog park or beach?

NO. There are greyhound days where the councils have allowed greyhounds off lead, BTG is not supportive of this as it can be very dangerous to have so many greyhounds off lead and unmuzzled. They race with muzzles on for a reason; to protect each other from teeth and nips.

When greyhounds get excited, they become competitive. They will nip each other because THEY want to be the one. It is safer to not practice off lead in these areas with other greyhounds unless every greyhound is muzzled.

What do I do after the trial period?

You have both passed the trial period with flying colours and you are each other’s forever friends and have paid BTG the agreed price.

You need to complete the paperwork to transfer your greyhound’s registration to your local council area (if not already).

Once BTG have provided you with all the documentation you need, you will need to apply to transfer their microchip details into your name and address. Once you have the registration number provided by your council you can then apply to lodge your greyhound’s muzzle exemption with the Dog and Cat Management Board. They will send you the approval paperwork for you to keep.

If you haven’t already, “Like” and “Follow” BTG on Facebook where you will become part of the BTG community and kept up to date on all things BTG. Furthermore, you can assist with future adoptions through the power of sharing posts amongst your personal Facebook friends.

Is my greyhound green collared?

No – however it is muzzled exempt if it has finished foster care. We cannot provide the “green collar” as that signifies and belongs to the GAP program. However, the muzzle exemption (ME test) is the same and provides the greyhound with a muzzle exemption. This detail is added to the dog registration with the council once registered.

Do greyhounds have health issues?

Not generally, however bone cancer has been noted in some. Otherwise, they are not a breed known for ‘common’ health issues such as hip dysplasia etc.

Some may have previous injuries during their race career. A history will be provided to you at the time of foster or adoption. These injuries do not prevent them from being a beautiful pet. These injuries are the reason for retirement and are important to know.

Are greyhounds great with children?

Yes, most greyhounds are fine with children. However, each dog is different, and the foster carer will have observed the recommended age suitable for that greyhound. As is the case with all breeds, it is recommended interaction between children and dogs be supervised.

Can they be left alone when I am at work?

Yes, BTG or the foster carer will let you know what your greyhound is able to tolerate.

What if my greyhound needs a vet?

All vets are qualified to work with all domestic breeds. However, for greyhound specific expertise, there are some vets that BTG recommend. Please contact BTG for the preferred Vet, or see the veterinary information in the Greyhound Booklet.

Is there support available after the adoption process is complete?

Absolutely yes. BTG will always provide information and support to facilitate a smooth transition of care. If it is deemed that your greyhound is not suited to your home environment OR unable to keep your dog for any reason, BTG will always accept your greyhound back.

For more detailed information, about your greyhound, please refer to the Greyhound Information Booklet provided to you by BTG.