Tackling the elements: How to help your greyhound keep warm this winter

During the cold winter months, we need to ensure our hounds are staying warm. So let’s dig deeper to see why greyhounds feel the cold…

Greyhounds have a lean body structure, low fat percentage and very short fur coat, whereas most other breeds have a lot more body fat or a second layer of fur - meaning greyhounds are much more susceptible to feeling the cold.

This is little surprise when you consider their past, as they originated in the warmer climate of Egypt.

Spot the signs

• They may be shivering. Like humans, dogs shiver when they become cold. However, they can also do this when excited!

• They might be actively seeking warmth within the home. They might constantly be looking for spots to cuddle into or try to snuggle by heat sources when they feel chilly.

• They may curl up into a little ball.

• If they normally sleep through the night but are waking up, or going to the toilet inside, this could mean that they are getting cold. Pop a fleece or pyjamas on them and give an extra blanket.

To keep your greyhound warm, there are things you can do inside and outside the home to help them…

How to help: inside the home

• Provide nice cosy bedding: make sure your greyhound has a comfortable bed with blankets.

• Keep your home at a comfortable temperature.

• Add some pyjamas or a fleece for an extra layer.

How to help while outside

• Make sure they wear thick winter or snood coats.

• Try to limit their time outside in the extremely cold weather.

• You can also protect their paws if they really struggle in the cold - if they don’t wear boots, make sure to wash their feet off when you get back from a walk.

• If there isn’t a snood on their coat, you can always buy them a separate snood to protect their ears and neck from the cold.

We hope this helps you keep your hound cosy and warm this winter.

The honeymood period

The ‘honeymoon period’ is the initial transitional phase after a dog is rehomed, and doesn’t just apply to greyhounds. During this time the dog is adjusting to their new home, family and environment.

Each dog is different

Now, not all dogs go through this: Some dogs are good and stay good, however some dogs will start to try and push the boundaries as they have settled in and try to rule the roost!

The length of a dog's honeymoon period does vary from dog to dog. One dog’s may only last a few days, whereas others can last a few weeks or even, in some cases, up to six months. This will completely depend on the dog's individual personality and experiences, and also the family lifestyle.

All about routine

In order to best help your dog during this time, you should establish a routine for you and the dog to follow each day, also making sure that everyone in the household is playing a part, as this means the dog knows it’s not just one person that feeds them.

Make sure your dog has their own space such as a crate or nice cosy bed so they can retreat to it and feel safe when needing time to decompress.

Try to limit outings and family visits at the very start, as this is all new to them and can overwhelm them, as some situations they may never have experienced beforehand.

On the same page

When the honeymoon period starts to come to an end, the dog’s behaviour can slightly change. You may think that you’ve done some solid training with them and they are at the point you want them to be at, however this is when they can start to push boundaries and test the waters to see if anyone in the family will crack.

We always say to our owners from the very start that everyone needs to be on the same page - for example, if one person says the dog isn’t allowed on the sofa, then no one lets the dog on the sofa.

This just ensures that the dog knows that one person isn’t easier to bribe than others, as they could start to pick on that person. When they try to test the boundaries, you need to reinforce everything you have already trained, and continue to do so.

We hope this helps, as we know a few of our owners have experienced this with their hounds.

Bone Appetit: Common misconceptions when feeding your pooch

By Erin Lorde

Dog lovers all over the world know that our furry friends are more than just pets; they are part of the family. And like any family member, we want to ensure they live their best lives.

From healthy treats to engaging toys, we love to spoil our pooches. But sometimes, our well-meaning efforts can lead to mistakes, especially when it comes to retired or adopted greyhounds.

In this blog, we will cover some of the common misconceptions when feeding your pooch and provide tips and tricks to make sure your retired/adopted greyhound is paw-some!

Foods and snacks

When it comes to feeding your retired/adopted greyhound, choosing a balanced and high-quality diet is essential. Dog foods that are multi-coloured often lack the nutrients that your dog needs. It's best to stick to good quality kibble/wet food or raw.

Make sure to limit portions and avoid heavily seasoned, salted, or fatty foods. 

Greyhounds need around 250-300 grams of meat per day supplemented with vegetables, fish oil, and dry food. Overfeeding your retired/adopted greyhound can lead to weight gain and other health problems.

It's also important to note that some human foods can be dangerous for dogs. For example, chocolate, grapes, and onions can be toxic to dogs, so make sure to avoid feeding these foods to your pooch even when they give you those puppy dog eyes… and always keep food out of reach, these cheeky chappies are notorious counter bandits!

Treats

Who doesn't love giving their furry friend a tasty treat? But not all treats are created equal. Many commercial treats contain ingredients that are harmful to your companion's health, such as artificial colours, flavours, and preservatives, Rawhide or Xylitol.

Treats could also consist of carrots, apples or peanut butter - just make sure it’s pet-friendly peanut butter (100% peanuts - it shouldn’t contain anything else).

However, even with healthy treats, moderation is key. Treats should make up no more than 10% of their daily diet, as overfeeding treats can lead to weight gain and other health problems.

Feeding utensils

Did you know that the type of feeding utensils you use can affect your dog's health?

Plastic is porous, allowing bacteria to seep in and get comfy, thriving off tiny bits of leftover food or even your pet’s saliva. Plastic bowls also invariably get small scratches over time, whether from being scrubbed, scratched, chewed, or dropped. These minuscule spaces give bacteria even more room to get comfy. Though you can wash the surface of the bowl clean, even the most diligent sponge can’t get at the microscopic bacteria.

To avoid these issues, opt for stainless steel or ceramic bowls that are easy to clean and won't cause any harm. Additionally, make sure you wash your dog's feeding utensils daily to keep them clean and free of bacteria.

Some owners like to also use a stand to lift the bowls off the ground which helps with posture and helps digestion. 

Bed

Your retired/adopted greyhound needs a comfortable and safe place to sleep. Providing your pooch with their own designated bed is a great way to keep them happy and healthy.

Greyhounds love soft and cosy beds, so make sure to choose one that is large enough for them to stretch out comfortably. A bed with supportive padding can also help alleviate pressure points and ensure a good night's sleep.

Additionally, it's important to choose a location for their bed that is quiet and away from any distractions or loud noises. This will help your furry friend relax and get the rest they need to stay healthy and happy. You don’t have to spend a fortune either – a folded duvet is also ideal.

Toys

Engaging toys are essential for keeping your hound active and stimulated - but with so many options on the market, it can be challenging to know what to choose. Consider your greyhound's personality and preferences when selecting a toy. For example, choose a durable chew toy if they love to chew. If they enjoy chasing, consider a ball or frisbee.

However, it's important to supervise your retired/adopted greyhound when they are playing with toys, especially if the toy is rubber and can break into small pieces that can be chewed off and swallowed. Some greyhounds won't enjoy playing with toys so don’t be disheartened if they don’t.

Bonding activities

Bonding with your rescued greyhound is an important part of creating a loving and trusting relationship.

Spending quality time with your dog is crucial for building a strong bond, and bonding activities don't have to involve treats or toys - consider mental and physical activities like training sessions.

Greyhounds are intelligent dogs and enjoy learning new things. Positive reinforcement training is a great way to bond with your pup while teaching them new skills.

Another way to bond with your greyhound is through physical touches, such as petting and cuddling. This can help build trust and make your pup feel loved and secure.

Exercise

As retired greyhounds are bred for speed, they don’t require a lot of exercise to keep them happy and healthy. Aim for at least two 20 minute-long walks per day or a few shorter walks throughout the day. You can also take your furry friend for a run in an enclosed field you can hire or even a swim if they enjoy it.

Greyhounds are generally low-energy dogs, but they still need exercise to maintain their physical and mental health, don't forget to bring water for your pup to stay hydrated on the go.

Dental health

Greyhounds are known for having dental issues, so it's important to take care of their teeth. Brushing their teeth regularly with a dog toothbrush and toothpaste can prevent tartar build-up and gum disease. Additionally, providing dental chews or bones can help clean their teeth and prevent bad breath.

So, remember:

Pampering your retired greyhound is all about finding a balance between fun and practicality.

From choosing the right feeding utensils to providing engaging toys and regular exercise, there are plenty of ways to ensure your greyhound is living their best life.

Remember to always consult with your vet and prioritise your dog's unique needs when making decisions about its health and wellbeing.

With a little bit of effort and a lot of love, your retired/adopted greyhound can enjoy a happy and healthy life with their loving family.