These are some of the things you might find useful for your new hound:

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Muzzle

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The most important pieces of equipment you will need for your greyhound is a collar, lead and muzzle. “OK” I HEAR YOU SAY. “I can understand the collar and lead bit but WHY !! would I need a muzzle?".

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Your greyhound may have spent it’s entire life in training kennels and only getting out to go to the track. He/she may have never been socialised with people or other dogs and most importantly your greyhound is bred and trained to chase and hunt prey. Do you really want your greyhound to chase the next door neighbours cat / Yorkshire terrier or even worse?  Do not worry many greyhounds spend their life in muzzles and in Europe it is not unusual. 

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All of our dogs are rehomed with a muzzle but should you lose it or if it gets chewed you can purchase a replacement through the merchandise section of our forum 

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Collars and Harnesses

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The standard greyhound collar (which your new dog comes home with) is shaped so it does not slip over the head of your greyhound, which is a must to keep him/her secure. The collar must not be too tight but tight enough so you can only get two fingers behind it when on the neck. Another popular style is the martingale which when the dog pulls it tightens so there is little chance of your greyhound slipping out of it’s collar.

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As you and he/she begins to bond and you can predict your dogs behaviour, then you may begin to indulge in the enormous range of collars that are out there.

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Many people now opt to use a harness for walking their dog. There are many different types of harnesses out there but SGS recommends the Perfect Fit model, which is fully adjustable, safe and comfortable. For more information have a look at the merchandise section of our forum.

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Leads

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We must start the lead section by advising not to use extendable leads. These leads are not safe and cannot give you the bonding time or security while out walking. If your dog is not by your side but sniffing everything 30 metres away from you it will never learn to walk properly by your side if left to do “it’s own thing”. Additionally, if your dog goes to bolt, whether to chase or having been spooked, it could seriously hurt its neck and your arm! 

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Slip leads that buckle are very secure and if your greyhound has a good shake then they are less likely to come away unlike the clip ones.  Lunge reins are a good way of teaching your dog recall as you can have the distance and still remain in full control of your greyhound, but only use a lunge with a harness!

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Bowls 

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There are numerous aids and accessories available to make you and your greyhounds life easier and one of these is bowls stands. The reason to use these for greyhounds is because of the length of their legs and that of course means their height, which makes it more difficult for them to eat from the floor. Elevating the bowl is beneficial to their health and digestive system. Of course you do not have to got to the expense of buying a stand merely place the bowl in a tall flower pot or a cardboard box to raise the bowls.

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Coats

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A coat is a must for your greyhound, he/she will get cold and wet on a walk and can catch chills due to the fine coat, which retains water. The coat keeps them warm and dry and protects the kidneys from the winter chills. Coats come in a rainbow of colours and there are many styles from fleecy to waterproof. You will be spoiled for choice.

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Crates

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Crates are not essential but many dog owners find them very useful. If you have a hound that may be destructive when left alone or just wants it’s own space then crates come into their own.  As a hospital area if your hound needs rest then once again a crate can be a god send. To help your greyhound feel happy and secure in his/her crate cover it with a blanket and put a cosy bed inside with food and water available.

Beds

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Finally to bed ………… your greyhound will feel just as comfortable on a old duvet than he/she would on any designer bed and you may find that they are just as happy to use your couch or bed. Whatever your preference just make sure your dog is out of draughts and feels happy and safe in his/her bad and make it clear to all the family that this is the dogs space.

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