Children and Greyhounds

In a New Race to be Loved. . . an Easy Win!

Children and Greyhounds - What to Expect

The Greyhound is an inherently gentle breed, which truly enjoys the company of people and most children. Indeed, the greatest concern might be for the Grey should the family include small children. Greyhounds are even- tempered and long-suffering. But like everything else, they do have a cut off point where enough is enough. As the newest member of your family your Grey will hold a special fascination for children in the home. They may be tempted to pull tails, bite ears, pounce on him or worse (the child----not the Grey). Though your Grey may endure such treatment in silence, his limit may eventually be exceeded and he may growl, bark or even snap. More than likely, he will come to fear the child and will withdraw from the child's presence. Either situation is undesirable and can be avoided by teaching the child the importance of being kind and gentle with all pets.

Never let kids crawl, jump or pounce on any sleeping dog. Never try to take a bone; treat or toy away and no one should put their hand between any dog and his food bowl. These precautions are not just for homes with Greyhounds, but also for homes with any breed of dog. It will probably take longer to teach the child than it will to teach the Grey. Many adults teach their children to pat a dog on the head. Most dogs really don't care for this. Most will tolerate it with dignity. Have someone beat you on the top your head for several minutes and see how annoying it can be.

Greys, like any other large breed, can be pretty formidable when frightened or harassed. Treated gently and with the respect he deserves, you should not have to worry about him in the company of children.

Remember – safety first – is the golden rule. Never leave your Greyhound – or any large dog - alone with a small child. Teach your child to be gentle with your Greyhound and make sure the child understands that the tail is not a play toy nor should the dog be ridden like a horse. Greyt harm could be done to the Greyhound.

Before you adopt your Greyhound, you might want to purchase a stuff toy that looks like a dog and teach your child how to “pet.” You can also buy a dog bed beforehand and teach your child that dog beds are off limits at all times. Never let your child sleep with a Greyhound – especially until you know your Greyhound. The Greyhound may regard the child as a “littermate” and treat him like one.