Straight Facts. No Spin.
Straight Up Facts
Straight Up Facts
Curious about greyhounds? Here you’ll find straight-up facts that cut through the myths and show the truth about these incredible dogs and the sport they love.
The Speedsters of the Dog World
Greyhounds hold the crown as the fastest dog breed on the planet, able to hit speeds of around 72 km/h (45 mph).
1
An Ancient Lineage
Dogs resembling the modern greyhound have been traced back over 8,000 years, with origins linked to ancient Egypt. Every sighthound you see today can be traced back to these early greyhounds.
2
Lifesavers on Four Legs
Around 85% of greyhounds share a special blood type that allows them to donate to almost any other dog breed. This makes them true “universal donors” in the veterinary world.
3
A Symbol of Nobility
Throughout history, greyhounds have been linked with royalty and aristocracy, often appearing in paintings, sculptures, and even on coats of arms.
4
Cheetah-Like Runners
When in full flight, greyhounds use the same running style as cheetahs, called the rotary gallop. In fact, they spend roughly 80% of each sprint airborne.
5
First Steps in Australia
Greyhounds arrived on Australian shores as early as 1770, when Captain Cook and botanist Sir Joseph Banks brought a pair with them to Botany Bay.
6
The Only Dog in the Bible
Of all the dog breeds in existence, greyhounds are the only ones mentioned by name in the Bible.