Happily Ever After Hounds Guide To Adopting a Greyhound.

The Adjustment Period

Thanks for adopting a greyhound, you are saving a life and giving a beautiful dog a second chance in this world.

Welcoming a greyhound into your home is a meaningful and life-changing experience. For your new companion, this moment represents the beginning of an entirely new way of living. The adjustment period can vary significantly between dogs. Some greyhounds settle quickly and appear immediately at ease, while others require more time, reassurance and patience.

Many greyhounds have spent the majority of their lives in kennels, living within highly structured routines and with limited exposure to everyday household environments. While some dogs adopted through Happily Ever After Hounds will have experienced time in foster care, not all greyhounds have had this opportunity. For some, arriving in your home will be their very first experience of life as a family pet. Everything may be unfamiliar, including living indoors, walking on household surfaces, interacting closely with people and learning how to relax in a home environment.

Learning how to be a pet is not instinctive for all dogs and should never be rushed. Each greyhound is an individual. Some adapt immediately to comfort and routine, while others need time to observe, learn and feel safe. This transition requires affection, understanding and realistic expectations. Quiet time, consistency and patience are essential foundations for success.

Greyhounds are generally calm, affectionate and adaptable dogs. When guided gently and supported appropriately, they usually settle beautifully into family life, which is a testament to the beautiful breed considering they don't have any early socialisation like most other pets.

Life as a Racing Greyhound

For many greyhounds, life before adoption was very different to the one they are about to experience. As racing dogs, their days were highly structured and predictable. Most lived in kennels rather than homes, spending much of their time in individual runs with limited freedom of movement. Daily routines revolved around feeding, training and rest, with little exposure to household environments, human companionship or everyday experiences such as stairs, televisions, soft furniture or family noise. While their basic needs were met, life was functional rather than emotional — focused on performance rather than connection. As a result, when a greyhound enters a home for the first time, pet life can feel overwhelming at first. The comforts we take for granted, such as couches, beds, affection and choice, are entirely new. Understanding this contrast helps explain why patience, routine and gentle guidance are so important as your greyhound learns that life is no longer about racing — it is about belonging.

The Rule of 3 in Rescue

When adopting a rescue dog, it is important to understand that adjustment does not happen all at once. A commonly used guideline in rescue is known as the Rule of 3. This is not a strict timeline, but rather a helpful way to understand what many dogs experience as they settle into a new home.

In the first three days, your greyhound is likely to feel overwhelmed. Everything is new — the environment, routines, people, smells and expectations. During this time, your dog may appear shut down, quiet or unsure. Some dogs may seem overly compliant or unusually reserved, while others may show signs of anxiety. This period is about decompression. Your greyhound is beginning to observe their surroundings and assess whether they are safe. Keeping life calm and predictable during these early days is essential.

By around three weeks, many greyhounds begin to feel more comfortable. This is often when their true personality starts to emerge. Confidence grows, curiosity increases and behaviours may change. At this stage, some dogs may begin testing boundaries, exploring independence or showing habits that were not visible earlier. This is normal and does not mean the dog is regressing. Rather, it is a sign that they are starting to feel secure enough to express themselves.

At approximately three months, most greyhounds begin to feel truly at home. Trust has formed, routines are understood and the dog starts to relax fully into family life. Bonds strengthen, training becomes more effective and emotional stability improves. While learning continues beyond this point, many adopters notice that this is when their greyhound genuinely feels like part of the family.

It is important to remember that every dog moves through this process at their own pace. Some may progress more quickly, while others may take longer depending on their background, experiences and temperament. The Rule of 3 is not a measure of success or failure, but a reminder to allow time, patience and grace throughout the journey.

Rescue is not an instant transformation. It is a relationship built slowly through consistency, understanding and kindness. With time, your greyhound will learn that this home, and these people, are truly theirs.

Easing the Transition

Greyhounds thrive on companionship and typically enjoy being close to their people. They need to be treated as part of the family. Their naturally relaxed temperament makes them excellent indoor companions, however they may need help understanding elements of a home environment that are completely new to them. Introducing these experiences gradually and calmly allows confidence to build without overwhelming the dog.

Stairs

Many greyhounds have never encountered stairs and may find them confusing or intimidating, particularly open-backed staircases. A slow and patient introduction is essential. Some dogs may require encouragement, reassurance or physical guidance in the early stages. With time, positive reinforcement and repetition, most greyhounds learn to navigate stairs confidently. Going at the dogs own pace, even if it takes a couple of weeks or more is super important. Most dogs will have it mastered quickly (however awkwardly) with the encouragement of treats strategically placed on the step. Roast chicken is a great motivator, but remember not to ever give dogs cooked bones.

Slippery Floors

Surfaces such as tiles, polished timber or lino may feel unstable to a greyhound who has never walked on them before. Hesitation is common. Confidence develops gradually as the dog becomes familiar with footing and balance. Allowing the dog to progress at their own pace is important. You may be able to help the process by adding some non-slip mats on the ground so they have a non-slip island to get to when navigating large rooms.

Glass Windows or Doors

Some greyhounds may not immediately recognise glass doors, windows or pool fencing as solid barriers. Gentle guidance through the home and allowing the dog to become familiar with these areas helps prevent confusion or injury during the early adjustment period. It's a good idea to take the greyhound round and tap on the glass with them on lead when first arriving. Also adding stickers or some coloured painting tape so they can visually see the glass will help to keep the dog safe from zooming into glass.

Household Noises

Everyday household sounds such as televisions, vacuum cleaners and kitchen appliances may be unfamiliar at first. Exposure should be gradual and non-threatening. Remaining calm and relaxed during these moments helps your greyhound understand there is nothing to fear. Simple everyday noises like the garbage truck and traffic are also things some greys will need to adjust too as they may have come from a farm setting.

Car Travel

Most greyhounds travel well and are accustomed to being transported. However, many have previously travelled in larger vehicles and may need time to adjust to car seats and smaller spaces. Some dogs will need assistance learning how to safely enter and exit a vehicle. It is important that car movement remains calm and controlled to prevent injury. Dogs should be tethered when driving, seat belt clips are available from pet stores or kmart. When opening a car door or boot, only open door enough to squeeze your hand in and grab the lead. Once you have the lead in hand, you can open the door completely as some dogs bound out and greyhounds have poor recall initially (sometimes forever) and once out can be hard to get back as they are so fast.

Toilet Training

Greyhounds are naturally clean dogs and generally respond well to routine. Some will already have toilet training experience, while for others this may be a completely new concept. Establishing a consistent toileting schedule from the beginning is important. Taking the dog outside regularly, particularly after meals, rest and activity, supports learning. Praise when toileting outdoors reinforces positive behaviour. Accidents should be managed calmly, as punishment causes confusion and anxiety rather than learning. When you first arrive home, take your greyhound out to the toilet area immediately and if they toilet their give much praise. On the first couple of days, take your greyhound out every 1-2 hours. If they have an accident inside, try to catch them in the act and calmly say no, and then usher them into the place where they need to be going to the toilet. You can make up a spray bottle that has some Biozet liquid clothes wash mixed with water and spray and clean any areas they have soiled with this formula. Biozet is a biological cleaner and will deter them from remarking the same spots. I have never encountered a greyhound who has failed to grasp toilet training, patience and consistency is the key. Greyhounds are sensitive so harsh reprimanding does not work with them.

Children

Greyhounds are typically gentle and tolerant by nature, but not all will have prior experience with children. Young children often move quickly and unpredictably, which can be overwhelming for a dog adjusting to a new environment. Supervision is essential at all times.

Children must be taught to interact respectfully, to avoid disturbing the dog while sleeping or eating and to allow the dog space when resting. Many greyhounds will choose to move away when uncomfortable, and this behaviour should always be respected. Licking lips, whale eye, yawning and shaking are all signs of stress.

Sleep startle can occur in some greyhounds due to years of sleeping undisturbed in kennels. Sudden waking can result in a reflexive response. Teaching family members to call the dog’s name before touching helps prevent this reaction. Providing a quiet and private sleeping space is vital. Teach your kids that if the dog is asleep or on its bed it is to be left. Clap first or make noise when approaching and call the dog to you when on their bed, don't go over and wake the dog on its bed. If you have a shower put the dog outside locked away from children, use baby gates or lock dog away in room if you are not going to be around to closely supervise. Greyhounds mouths are right on kids face level so always supervise when together. Never allow kids to take food away from greyhounds, or eat near them. Some greys have not been given access to food regularly so resource guarding can be an issue till they work out that food is abundant now. Some greys will always be funny around food. Set yourself up for success by being hyper vigilant around kids. This will keep everyone safe.

Trading up

When a dog picks something up that they should not have, it is important not to forcibly remove it from their mouth. Taking items away can create anxiety and may teach the dog to guard objects rather than release them. Instead, a safer and more effective approach is to “trade up.” This means offering your dog something they value more — such as a high-value treat, favourite toy or food reward — and allowing them to choose to drop the item willingly. When the dog releases what is in their mouth, calmly reward them and remove the object without fuss. This method builds trust, reduces the risk of being bitten and possessive behaviour. It teaches your dog that giving things up leads to positive outcomes. Over time, dogs learn that humans approaching their mouth is not a threat, but an opportunity for something better, helping create cooperation rather than conflict.

Open Doors and Gates

Greyhounds are extremely fast dogs and can move from stillness to full speed in seconds. Care must be taken to ensure doors, gates and car doors remain closed at all times. Education of children and visitors is essential, as a moment of inattention can result in escape and serious danger. Padlock gates so mistakes are not made.

Other Pets

Greyhounds are accustomed to living around other greyhounds and are often sociable with dogs when introductions are handled appropriately. Initial meetings should be calm, controlled and supervised and are often better on neutral territory not the animals home.

Some greyhounds can live successfully with cats and small animals, while others may display a stronger prey drive. All introductions must be carried out carefully, with safety as the priority. Supervision is essential, and separation is recommended when animals cannot be monitored. Chasing should never be allowed, even in play, as instinct can override intention. Greys are not used to the look of other dog breeds as they may have only been exposed to other greyhounds, so the look of eg a bulldog may look like its baring its teeth in a threatening way to an unfamiliar Greyhound, who will have to learn how to read other breeds of dogs slowly and in a controlled manner.

Greyhounds and the Elements

Greyhounds have very little body fat and short, fine coats, which makes them sensitive to both heat and cold. They should sleep indoors at night and have appropriate shelter during the day. In cold weather, warm coats are essential. In spring t-shirts and clothing is essential. In hot weather, care must be taken to prevent overheating, as greyhounds can deteriorate quickly when exposed to extreme temperatures. As a rule of thumb, if you need a coat or shirt, so do they. Some greys run hotter or colder than others, so get to know your dog and work out what they need.

Possessiveness & Resource Guarding

Some greyhounds may initially show possessiveness over food, bedding or toys, particularly during the early settling period. They have most likely never had a soft bed, regular sized meals (as they are kept thinner for racing weight) so they can get possessive with the new abundance of pet life. This behaviour usually improves as the dog gains confidence and security and realises that life is abundant now. Teaching calm handling and reinforcing boundaries helps establish trust. Sleep-space startle may also occur and should be managed carefully, particularly around children.

Exercise, Socialisation and Outings

Greyhounds require moderate daily exercise. Short, regular walks are generally sufficient, though individual preferences vary. Greyhounds are not endurance dogs and are not suited to jogging long distances. Walks should be undertaken during cooler parts of the day to reduce heat stress.

Greyhounds should never be tied out or placed on overhead runs, as their speed can result in serious injury. Long or retractable leads are not recommended for the same reason.

Start with short walks, if possible away from busy roads. Keep to the same routes initially to build some recognition and routine. Some dogs will need to get out every day and will calm down with a walk and be less anxious. Other dogs will find walking overwhelming and may freeze on the walk, so you will need to make their world very small while they get used to pet life, listen to your dog and be responsive to their needs and pace of adaptation.

Muzzling & Green Hound Program

Muzzling requirements vary by state and council regulations. In NSW it is legal to have your greyhound on a lead without a muzzle. If you go to an off leash area you must have your greyhound muzzled. This is to protect small dogs and other animals as they greyhound may chase, pin down, or bite another animal. You can engage in the Green Hound Program, which is a home based retraining program that teaches your dog to behave safely. After spending some time retraining your dog you can pay to have an assessor test your dog and if they pass they are issued a Green Hound Collar which can be worn at off lead spaces and allows your dog to be muzzle exempt like other pet dogs. Adopters are encouraged to familiarise themselves with local regulations and requirements.

Greyhounds Are Sighthounds

Greyhounds are visual hunters and may instinctively chase moving objects. They have little road sense and may not respond reliably to recall. For this reason, greyhounds should remain on lead unless in a fully secure and enclosed area.

Feeding

Most Greys are grazers, not inhalers like some other breeds. Greyhounds should be fed two balanced meals per day. A nutritious diet supports digestion, coat condition and overall health. Certain foods are toxic to dogs and must never be fed. Consistency in feeding routine contributes to emotional security. Greyhounds should be fed on an elevated bowl or bench to help prevent bloat. Feed animals separately from each other and take left over food away after meal times so that there is nothing to fight over. If giving treats or bones, seperate animals and pick up any left overs. Do not leave half eaten bones in back yard for dogs to fight over unsupervised.

Bloat

Bloat is a life-threatening emergency that affects deep-chested breeds. Symptoms may include restlessness, discomfort, pacing or difficulty breathing. Immediate veterinary attention is essential otherwise the dog may die. Preventative measures include feeding smaller meals, feeding with an elevated bowl or on a table or bench. avoiding exercise or walking for 40 minutes before and after eating and preventing excessive water intake.

Bathing Your Greyhound

Greyhounds are naturally clean dogs and rarely develop strong odours. Greys generally have less oil in their skin than most other dog breeds and as a result lack that traditional doggy smell. Bathing should be infrequent, using cool or lukewarm water and gentle shampoos. Excessive bathing can contribute to dry skin. Their short coats require minimal grooming.

When your grey first arrives it will most likely have a fluffy messy looking kennel coat, after some TLC and bathing this will start to shed and you will be left with a beautiful shiny greyhound after about a month. Once this kennel coat is gone, pet Greyhounds shed a lot less than other dog breeds so it is rare to have a house filled with dog hair. I recommend taking your dog to the dog car wash with a lot of roast chicken and using the dog cleaning station. At-least initially as this will really clean your dog after kennel life.

Behaviour and Basic Obedience Training

Greyhounds are super smart dogs and are easily trained. Only use positive reinforcement training methods with Greyhounds. Consistency, calm leadership and positive reinforcement form the foundation of successful training. Greyhounds respond best to gentle guidance rather than harsh correction. They are sensitive dogs and get offended easily. It's also important to note, we don't know how they have been treated or mistreated in the past so being mindful of this and always being gentle in tone and action will build trust and safety. Short training sessions and clear routines help reduce confusion and anxiety.

Greyhounds are creatures of habit and often feel most secure when daily routines are predictable. During the early weeks, structure helps the dog settle and prevents behavioural setbacks.

Start as You Mean to Finish

When welcoming a greyhound into your home, it is important to establish clear and consistent expectations from the very beginning. Dogs thrive on clarity. They feel safer when the rules are predictable and remain the same over time.

“Start as you mean to finish” simply means setting boundaries early, rather than allowing behaviours initially and trying to change them later. While it can be tempting to relax rules during the settling period, this often leads to confusion for the dog. What feels kind in the moment can become stressful later if expectations suddenly change.

For example, if you do not want your greyhound to sleep on your bed or lounge long term, it is best not to allow this behaviour from day one. Once a dog has learned that something is permitted, it can be very difficult for them to understand why it is later taken away. Consistency helps your greyhound learn what is acceptable and what is not, without anxiety or mixed signals.

The same principle applies to routines, boundaries and household rules. Where the dog sleeps, where they eat, when they are fed, how they are greeted, and how they move through the home should be established early and maintained consistently. Clear guidance helps your greyhound settle faster because they do not have to guess what is expected of them.

This approach does not require strictness or discipline. It is about calm leadership and fairness. Rules should be reasonable, consistent and applied gently. When expectations remain the same every day, the greyhound can relax, knowing they understand their place and role within the household.

Starting with clear boundaries also supports long-term harmony. It prevents frustration for both dog and family and creates a stable foundation as your greyhound moves through the adjustment process.

By starting as you mean to finish, you provide your greyhound with clarity, security and confidence — all essential ingredients for a successful and lasting adoption.

Greyhound Personality Traits

Greyhounds are super quirky, funny, weird and awkward. They will provide so much amusement and fun in your life in ways you never expected. As your greyhound becomes comfortable, their personality will emerge. Behaviours such as sleeping on their back (roaching - lying on back with legs in the air resembling a dead cockroach), rearranging bedding (nesting), smiling, chattering teeth (can mean excitement and happiness) or collecting household items are common and typically signs of relaxation and contentment.

Greyhound Health

Greyhounds are generally a very healthy breed as they are built for performance not bred for aesthetic characteristics like some other breeds eg. bracheosephalic dogs like pugs that have breathing issues ect. Adopters are responsible for ongoing veterinary care including vaccinations, parasite prevention, dental care, nail maintenance and regular health checks. Your rescue Grey will be desexed, had a dental treatment and all flea, worm and vaccinations will be up to date when you adopt them. The vet industry is known for over vaccination of dogs which can lead to health issues. I recommend getting a titer test done with your vet to see if your dog is still covered by the previous vaccinations before getting more vaccinations on board and overloading your dogs system unnecessarily. A lot of vets recommend only needing vaccinations every three years not every year as this is not needed and can do more harm than good in the long run to your precious pet. It's important to find a vet who is familiar with the Greyhound breed as they are different to other dog breeds and can metabolise medications differently ect. Some former racing dogs may develop arthritis later in life, and appropriate management can help maintain comfort and mobility. Adding a supplement like Sasha's blend or Rose Hip Vital to food can help. Getting pet insurance as soon as you adopt your dog will ensure that your dog is covered for any emergency and will help you support your dog if they ever get sick or have an accident. There is nothing worse than not having the funds to save your dog if the worst were to happen.

A Final Word

Whether your new greyhound has experienced foster care or is stepping directly from kennel life into a home, the journey into pet life is profound. With patience, understanding and compassion, your dog will continue to grow in confidence and trust.

Greyhounds are one of the worlds oldest dog breeds, they have lived alongside man for so long they have a natural affinity and intuition with man that I have never experienced with any other breed of dog. They are the only dog breed mentioned in the bible and images of sight hounds are seen in Egyptian hieroglyphics. Their gentle nature, quiet companionship and deep loyalty make them extraordinary family members.

Thank you

Happily Ever After Hounds thanks you for opening your heart and home and for giving a greyhound the opportunity to experience love, safety and belonging — perhaps for the very first time. Please know that we are with you on this journey and you have our full support and brains trust through the process of adjustment. No question is too silly, so please reach out and use our support network through the transition of your Grey into your family life. If we don't have the answers we can point you in the right direction to find out the answers together. Be mindful the first two weeks are the often the most challenging, as they have no idea what is expected of them, there are so many firsts, they don't know your routine, they don't feel safe, they are trying to work out if your are a serial killer ha ha. But I assure you once they settle into your life and you overcome the initial hurdles together, they will bring you so much love and joy. "Saving a dog won't change the world, but it will change the world for that dog" (Author Unknown), so thank you from the bottom of my heart for saving one of these unique and beautiful souls and for showing them how wonderful the world can be and what its like to be loved, and to have someone to love, and to have a safe place to belong in this crazy world we share.