Discover the differences in 5 types of greyhound dog breeds

You may have always dreamed of having a graceful Greyhound in your home. However, did you ever wonder where this breed originates, its characteristics, and how many present types exist?

First, it is essential to understand that Greyhounds are known for their high speed, as they can reach up to 45 miles per hour.

Having a slim build, long legs, and a wide field of vision, they are the ideal dogs for racing and competition but also suitable as household pets. Despite their ability to run, most Greyhounds are couch potatoes at heart.

Today, greyhounds can be found worldwide, especially in Southwest Asia.

If you want to get a Greyhound, let’s learn about five notable options and their characteristics.

There are several varieties of greyhounds, characterized by differences in their coats and locations of origin.

Listed below are five of the most common Greyhound breeds.

Italian Greyhound

The Italian Greyhound is the perfect miniature Greyhound. These dogs were prized as noble companions in the Roman Empire. The miniature Greyhound was a status symbol in Italy during the Renaissance.

There is also a mixed breed known as the Italian Greyhuahua, a mix of an Italian Greyhound and a Chihuahua, that can be a perfect family pet.

Personality and appearance

The Italian Greyhound is an intelligent and sensitive breed. These dogs are playful, active, and alert but love to cuddle up in front of their owners as they work. Positive reinforcement is the best approach when teaching them, as they are sensitive and stubborn.

The Italian Greyhound is closely related to Greyhounds in general but is slightly slimmer in appearance. With a deep chest and elegant lines, they have a graceful appearance. They have delicate, glossy skin and hair that is silky in texture.

Across their backs, they have a distinct curve descending into their hindquarters. They have long, muscled, but slender legs.

Remember, Italian Greyhounds are prone to dental issues and patellar luxation, so visit your vet.

Spanish Greyhound

Spanish Greyhounds or Spanish Sighthounds are physically fit purebred dogs with thick chests and long legs. Most of their hair is short, fine, and straight, although some are longer and harder. Among the available colors are black, yellow, cinnamon, red, and white.

A male can weigh up to 60 pounds, whereas a female can weigh up to 50 pounds. They reach top speeds of 45 miles per hour, making them a fast breed. Commonly used for hunting in the Middle Ages, Spanish Sighthounds are susceptible to heart issues such as dilated cardiomyopathy and skin conditions such as demodectic mange.

Personality and appearance

Spanish Sighthounds are gentle and friendly breeds that enjoy snuggling up and snoozing for hours. Children and other pets generally get along well with them. They have reserved personalities, so it is essential to socialize at a young age.

Compared to Greyhounds, Spanish Sighthounds are smaller and lighter, and their heads have a longer and smoother shape. Their muscle profile is flatter, and their loins are higher. Two types of coats are available for Spanish Greyhounds: smooth and rough.

Russian Greyhound

Russian Greyhounds or Borzoi are wavy-haired dogs with large bodies. The breed can grow up to 33 inches in height and weigh as much as 90 pounds.

Historically, they have existed since the 16th century. Borzoi are independent and enjoy running, so they require a safe, enclosed area where they can reach their full potential as a runner. The Russian Greyhound is capable of living for up to 12 years.

As they grow older, this breed is prone to various health complications, notably hip and elbow dysplasia.

Personality and appearance

Borzoi dogs need experienced and sympathetic owners because they are compassionate. Despite enjoying spending time with family and children, they dislike being intruded upon by others. Occasionally, they may misinterpret commands, which is common among Greyhound breeds, but that is how they are.

Borzois have an elegant and agile appearance and a slightly arched back. Their chests are narrow but deep. The coat is silky and long, with a slight wave.

Scottish Greyhound

The Scottish Greyhound is also known as the Deerhound. One of the tallest breeds of dogs, they resemble the Irish Wolfhound. They have a gentle, loyal disposition and excellent reputation as family pets.

Personality and appearance

The Deerhound is extremely sensitive to stress, so consider this before adding one to a hectic household. Separation anxiety occurs when they are left alone at home all day. Because of their strong prey drive, keep them leashed when outside. 

The Deerhound is a much more substantial dog compared to the regular Greyhound. A strong neck, a long head with a pointed muzzle, and large ears are the characteristics of these dogs. Besides having compact feet and powerful legs, their wiry coat is low-maintenance, with a small fringe across their legs.

Whippet

The Whippet, or English Greyhound, is a delicate, docile, dignified little dog with a sweet face. Mainly Whippets are used for domestic racing, but they can also make great pets for families who enjoy indoor activities.

They are one of the fastest dogs in the canine kingdom.

Provide a fenced yard for your Whippet to roam and explore freely. Whippets can be prone to bloat, osteosarcoma, and heart issues such as dilated cardiomyopathy, so be sure to take them to the vet if they feel sick.

Personality and appearance

Whippets are calm and composed at home and on a leash, but let them loose, and you’ll be amazed by how fast they are. Whippets can happily live in an apartment as long as they’re well-exercised.

A Whippet’s body, shaped like a sighthound’s inverted “s,” is strong, with slim legs, deep chests, and thin waists. Their necks are long and elegantly arched.

Whippets have folded, upright ears that resemble a flower. Be sure to check and clean their ears to prevent infections.

Whippets can contract heart issues such as cardiomyopathy and arrhythmias and eye conditions like progressive retinal atrophy. So, take extra caution regarding their health.

Final thoughts on Greyhound breeds

Many different types of Greyhound breeds possess unique characteristics and abilities. From the Spanish Greyhound’s impressive speed and agility to the Italian Greyhound’s affectionate nature, there is a breed for every type of family and lifestyle.

Whether you want an outdoor companion or a cuddle buddy, these pets will surely bring joy and love to your life.

Arslan Hassan is an electrical engineer passionate about writing, designing, and anything tech-related. His educational background in the technical field has given him the edge to write on many topics.