A Place For Us Greyhounds
A Place For Us Greyhounds
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FAQs About Greyhound Behavior

Want to learn more about the breed and what it’s like to adopt one? Start with the basics and discover what makes these dogs so special.

Greyhounds and Lurchers are affectionate, friendly, and thrive on human companionship. Raised closely with their litter-mates and often handled from a young age, they develop strong social bonds and a love of attention. Their gentle nature makes them wonderful family pets, though they aren't well-suited as watchdogs due to their naturally friendly demeanor.


Yes, in the right setting. The ideal home includes school-aged children or older. Each family is carefully evaluated to ensure a safe and positive fit.


Most Greyhounds/Lurches get along well with other dogs, especially those of similar size and temperament. Their early socialization at kennels and racetracks helps them develop strong social skills. While Greyhounds aren't typically raised around cats or small dogs, we can offer preliminary testing to assess their compatibility with smaller animals.


Most retired racers are between 2 and 5 years old. Some older Greyhounds, such as former brood moms, may be available as well. The Lurchers that are available are typically young. Their age is estimated by the condition of their teeth and other physical traits at the time of their rescue. In some cases, a DNA test is done to determine their age. 


Greyhounds are healthy, athletic dogs with a life expectancy of 12 to 14 years.


Beyond the initial adoption fee, expect typical pet care costs such as supplies, vet visits, and food (about $3 per day). Greyhounds require minimal grooming, thanks to their sleek coats, and tend to have less odor than other breeds. A simple brushing with a grooming glove keeps their coat and skin in great shape.


Yes. Most are easily house trained because of their kennel training, which encourages them to keep their living space clean. Lurchers usually share this behavior due to their early sheltering experiences and pack-living dynamics. The Lurchers available for adoption have generally had exposure to crate training while at the kennel. Male dogs are neutered which tends to lessen their "marking" habits. Male wraps also known as "belly bands" are available at the time of adoption. Getting the newly adopted dog on a turn-out schedule, watching them more closely in the beginning, considering a doggy door, and crate-training are good ideas for any new dog. Even dogs that were previously in homes as foster dogs or pets will need reinforcement in order to be successful with house training. 


They enjoy daily walks and the occasional sprint around a secure yard. While they are fast runners, they’re surprisingly low-energy indoors. A securely fenced yard (5–6 feet tall) is essential, and leashes are a must in unenclosed areas. Due to their thin coats and low body fat, greyhounds are indoor dogs and should not be left outside for extended periods. (*A word of warning--retractable leashes are unsafe to use for Greyhounds since they cannot bear the strain of the dog pulling strongly against it. Anyone that owns a powerful Lurcher or Greyhound will tell you that if you are walking them and their prey drive kicks in--you will want a shorter leash and good hold on it to prevent them from getting loose.)


  • Males: 26–30 inches tall, 65–85 pounds
  • Females: 23–26 inches tall, 50–65 pounds
  • Many of the Lurchers are smaller than retired racers--most likely this is due to their prominence of other breeds in their DNA. 


Yes, but not excessively. Like all dogs, they shed year-round and may shed more during life changes or seasonal shifts. People with allergies may or may not tolerate a greyhound; reactions vary depending on sensitivity to dander or coat.


Some do, especially if bored or curious. Their strength means they can dig faster and deeper than smaller dogs. A designated digging area or sandbox can help redirect this behavior, and barriers may be helpful for protecting gardens.


Greyhounds do bark, though they tend to be quieter than many other breeds. Barking is a natural form of communication, but they're generally calm and not considered excessive barkers.


We love your enthusiasm—being prepared makes all the difference! To help you get started, we’ve compiled a list of recommended supplies you'll need before bringing your Greyhound/Lurcher home.


Recommended Supplies

A brindle Greyhound dog contorted in a "yoga" pose on a floral sofa.

Preparing ahead of time helps ease your greyhound’s transition into your home. Here’s a complete guide to the essentials you’ll need:

Feeding and Watering Supplies

  • Bowls: Use bowls that hold at least 2–3 quarts. Some adopters prefer elevated feeders, but they’re optional.
  • Water Intake: Most greyhounds drink ½ to 1 liter of water per day. Keep fresh water available at all times.

Food and Nutrition

  • Kibble: Feed a high-quality dry dog food like Purina Pro Plan Sport 30/20 Chicken and Rice (the formula we use). Canned food is okay--but not as a mainstay for their diets. Kibble has a higher concentration of calories and is healthier for their teeth. 
  • Feeding Amount: Most greyhounds need 3–4 cups of kibble per day. If your dog still seems hungry, increase by ½ cup at a time—rarely will they need more than 6 cups daily. Most families feed their dog twice a day. 
  • Healthy Weight Tip: The last 3 ribs should show when your dog is standing. A little weight gain is not unusual when the Greyhound moves into your home due to more comfortaband a less active lifestyle. 
  • Avoid: Table scraps, chocolate, xylitol, raisins, grapes, and avocados. These foods can be toxic. 
  • Important: Avoid grain-free diets—they may contribute to heart conditions in large breeds due to missing nutrients. Greyhounds rarely have food allergies.

Crate Recommendations

  • Type: Wire crates are ideal—they’re breathable, portable, and allow greyhounds to see their surroundings. Plastic crates are sturdier if your dog is a strong chewer or escape artist.
  • Sizes:
    • Males (Larger Dogs): 48” x 30” x 33”
    • Females (Smaller Dogs): 42” x 28” x 30”
  • Placement: Keep the crate in a central area—not isolated—since greyhounds are prone to separation anxiety.
  • Tip: Cover the crate with a blanket to give it a cozy, den-like feel.

Bedding

  • Dog Bed: One or two soft, large beds (minimum 42” x 30” or 40” round). Bolster-style beds offer added comfort.
  • Alternative: Gently used comforters can also work well.
  • Note: Greyhounds may dig or fluff their bedding—this is normal behavior for them. 

Sleeping Arrangements

  • Ideal Setup: Your Greyhound should sleep in your bedroom—but not in your bed. A crate or dog bed nearby is perfect.
  • Safety Note: Never allow your greyhound to sleep with a child.

ID Tags and Microchips

  • ID Tag: Your dog will come with one of our group's id tags. You're welcome to keep it or return it for reuse. It's important that your dog has some sort of ID tag on their collar if you don't use ours. 
  • Microchip: Register your dog’s microchip immediately. This is critical for lost dog recovery.
  • If Your Dog Gets Loose: Call Linda Dunn at (806) 787-8530 right away so we can alert volunteers, post on social media, and organize search parties. 

A black Greyhound with a white chest and nose, wearing a green collar, stands smiling.

Cleaning and Poop Troubleshooting

  • Carpet Cleaner: Have an enzyme-based cleaner on hand (keep your receipt—you may not need it!).
  • Digestive Issues:
    • Occasional diarrhea is normal during transition.
    • Causes can include overfeeding or new treats.
    • If loose stools persist beyond 24 hours, consult your vet.
    • Remedies:
      • 2 tbsp plain yogurt with meals (for gas)
      • 2 tbsp canned pumpkin per meal (for loose stools)
      • ½ cup cooked brown rice per meal
      • Try a flatter or slow-feeder bowl if your dog eats too fast

A fawn-colored Galgo Espanol dog with a leash stands in a dry, grassy outdoor area.

Flea, Tick & Worm Prevention

  • Avoid: Most flea collars—they're toxic.
  • Topical: Frontline is safe but may last only 3 weeks.
  • Oral Preventatives that require a prescription:
    • Simparica / NexGard: Monthly; well tolerated
    • Simparica Trio: Also covers heartworm, fleas, and ticks
    • Bravecto: Lasts up to 3 months
  • Lawn Treatment Tip: Keep your dog off the lawn until chemicals are dry.
  • Dangerous Mulch: Never use cocoa mulch—it’s toxic.

Heartworm Prevention

Hookworms and Fecal Checks

Hookworms and Fecal Checks

  • We provide one dose at adoption due to cost.
  • Optional: We can include a 6-month supply in your adoption fee if you prefer.
  • Effective Products: Simparica Trio, Iverhart Max (especially good for hookworms)

Hookworms and Fecal Checks

Hookworms and Fecal Checks

Hookworms and Fecal Checks

  • We conduct fecal exams, especially for racing-bred greyhounds, as hookworms are common and persistent.
  • Signs of Worms: Mushy, stinky stools that don’t improve.
  • Effective Treatments: Iverhart Max works well; ProHeart injections are less effective for hookworms.

Car Travel Tips

When Your Greyhound Isn’t Eating

When Your Greyhound Isn’t Eating

  • Use a Hammock or Sling: Attaches to the backseat headrests and keeps your dog from falling into the footwell.
  • Safety Tip: Be cautious when opening doors—some greyhounds may try to jump out.
  • Solutions:
    • Use a leash tether when doors are open.
    • Have a passenger hold the leash if you're opening the hatch or car door. 
  • Crating Not Required: Most dogs ride well without crates—but always secure them.

When Your Greyhound Isn’t Eating

When Your Greyhound Isn’t Eating

When Your Greyhound Isn’t Eating

  • First Days: It’s common for them to be reluctant to eat initially.
  • Add-Ins to Encourage Eating:
    • Chicken broth
    • Small amounts of cooked chicken or raw hamburger
    • Unseasoned scrambled eggs
    • Freshpet refrigerated food (mix with kibble)
  • Important Tip: Dry kibble is calorie-dense and supports dental health—try to transition back over time.

A cream-colored Sloughi dog stands on a leash in a grassy, arid outdoor setting.

We’re Here to Help

If you have any concerns—medical, emotional, or behavioral—please contact:

Linda Dunn at (806) 787-8530

You’re not alone—we’ve seen it all and are happy to support you and your new companion.

Our History & Mission

Learn more about our mission to support and find loving homes for Greyhounds through the FAQs below.

APFUG was founded by Laurel Drew and Elaine Summerhill, dedicated greyhound enthusiasts from Albuquerque, New Mexico. They started the group after helping with an unexpected litter of greyhound puppies from Iowa. Drawing on their experience with show dogs, they fostered and placed over 100 greyhounds, overcoming challenges like rescuing sick pups and capturing strays. Despite limited networking tools before the internet, their efforts laid the groundwork for the group. After about a decade, they passed leadership to volunteers in Lubbock, Texas. Additionally, they applied for exemption as a non-profit 501c3 Charity and were approved in 1997. This status remains in good standing today. A Place for Us Greyhound Rescue was incorporated in New Mexico where it remains recognized and in good standing. 


Since 2008, APFUG has been primarily based in Lubbock, Texas, with Linda Dunn and her husband, Bryan Dunn leading the operations there. Starting small with fundraising garage sales, the group now places two to three greyhounds per month and has successfully found homes for over 500 Greyhounds and Lurchers since its reorganization.


Prior to 2021, over half of the greyhounds placed came from the racing industry, including retired racers and those not suited for racing due to their temperament or minor injuries. At that time, APFUG worked closely with a local racing family in Lubbock to find homes for these dogs. The family has ceased raising Greyhounds to race. 

Throughout its history, APFUG has rescued greyhounds used for hunting. The group became acutely aware of poor conditions for dogs bred to hunt or Lurchers very early in its reorganization when asked to help with a Lubbock County animal cruelty case in 2009-2010, ultimately finding homes for all seven of the neglected dogs Another animal cruelty case arose in 2023 when six Lurchers were rescued from Tulia, Texas. In over 90% of the cases where Lurchers are rescued and the group assumes their care-the dogs are found abandoned running loose, in animal shelters, or other perilous situations. Whenever the group learns of a Sigthound in peril, they do their best to try and rescue them even if it involves capturing them. DNA testing helps confirm the dog's genetic background so that adopters know they are getting a dog that has a strong heritage as a Sighthound. 


Adoption fees cover a small fraction of the costs for healthy dogs after their rescue. The group has received grants and donations from individuals over the past five years that have helped pay for its expenses. Donations are the mainstay for funding. 


No, APFUG does not maintain its own kennel. Instead, it pays a weekly rate to house dogs waiting for adoption at a local well-run and well-respected kennel. If suitable foster homes arise, the dogs are kept there. At the kennel, the dogs get walks, play-time in the turnout yard, excellent care, and good food! Over the years, several remarkable recoveries of dogs that were terribly malnourished, injured, fearful, and/or poorly socialized have received care and consideration at the rescue kennel. 


Dogs awaiting adoption are located in Lubbock. 


Qualified adopters can meet the dogs at the rescue facility. 


APFUG requires these steps to ensure potential adopters are truly qualified, responsible, and committed to providing a safe, secure home. This helps conserve the group’s limited volunteer time and resources.


Absolutely! APFUG welcomes foster homes, transportation help, adoption event assistance, and dog walking at kennels. Volunteer needs vary depending on the dogs currently under care. Interested individuals are encouraged to reach out and get involved.


APFUG maintains a neutral position on greyhound racing. If future opportunities arise to help retired racers--APFUG is poised and happy to do so. 


Recommended Reading for Greyhound Adopters

  • Recommended reading about greyhounds and tips for acclimating, training, and managing your new dog
  • Branigan, Cynthia A., Adopting the Racing Greyhound, 3rd Edition, 2003
  • Livingood, Lee, Retired Racing Greyhounds for Dummies, 2002.
  • McConnell, Patricia B. and London, Karen B., Love Has No Age Limit: Welcoming an Adopted Dog Into Your Home, 2011.
  • Horwitz, Debra and Ciribassi, John (Editors), Decoding your Dog, 2014
  • Kilcommons, Brian and Wilson, Sarah, Childproofing your Dog: A Complete Guide to Preparing Your Dog for the Children in Your Life, 1994.
  • Do your own research focusing on issues that apply to your life and family. There are numerous online sites dedicated to Greyhounds and Lurchers. Follow and join these groups. 
  • The director can usually offer advice and persons who have adopted from APFUG are part of a private group on Facebook which affords a good opportunity to pose questions to other members of the group for feedback. It's a wonderful and fun way to network with others who have adopted from APFUG. 
  • Do general research about house training and crate training your new dog. 


A brindle Greyhound dog with a black collar, panting happily outdoors with a blue sky.

Spice up your life--Adopt a West Texas Lurcher!

Adoptable Dogs

  • Retired Hunters (Adoption fee: $200)
    • Anna-Suzanna, Cotton, Teddy, Shiner, Jasper, Max, Nutmeg
  • Available Soon
    • Mustang, Sterling

Contact & Location

📍Lubbock, Texas


📧Email: aplaceforusgreyhounds@yahoo.com

A Place For Us Greyhounds

P.O. Box 94681, Lubbock, Texas 79493

(806) 787-8530 | aplaceforusgreyhounds@yahoo.com

Copyright © 2025, A Place For Us Greyhounds. All Rights Reserved.

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