Greyhound Friends of North Carolina

Greyhound Adjustment, Stress, and Safety

1. Adjustment Period
   1. The in and out crating is needed to establish confidence to be left alone. This is similar to their kennel routine.
   2. Being on the leash out of the crate is to reduce stress. This process allows the greyhound to adjust to the new home day by day without wondering.
   3. It helps to repeat this process when one moves. The same adjustment can be needed as 1^st going home.
   4. A confined crate space is also less stress on organ function than moving through the house.
   5. Sleeping in the crate a few nights helps adjustment, when not in the crate at night, he should be confined to one room.
   6. Not allowing toys or treats the first few weeks eliminates problems with possession. This is safer as well with children involved.
2. Stress
   1. Recent stress studies show stress comes from lack of confidence being
      alone. The Greyhound usually has a high level of confidence in the kennel environment due to limited human contact.  This should change slowly over time.
       
2. Helpful tips are little human conversation while in crate, firm owner hand contact to move Greyhound into crate, feeding in crate- All of this is similar to their previous kennel life.
    

3. Remember that animals stay at a 2 to 3 year old child’s mental state. They prefer the same routines and change should occur slowly.
    

4. Greyhounds are used to music and air flow.. Fans help block out outside noises.       

5. Water consumption should be limited to 1 liter per day including water in food-per NC State Vet Hospital research- exposure to water outside of crate in AM and PM only should be adequate for most greyhounds. Stress drinking causes urination problems inside the house and the crate.

6. Food changes going home should be minimal. Changes in food, added items and treats can upset the stool.  Always be sure to moisten food well, cannot be too wet, but can be too dry.  Once food is given to the dog, do not disturb, such as trying to take food back for any reason.

7. Using in and out crating and leash control in the house have proven over the years to be the most successful in new Greyhounds going home.

8. The 3-foot rule on down space is best to follow in new homes. This allows the privacy they are use to.

3. Safety
   1. Remember Greyhounds have lived their adult lives in crated, muzzled,               solitary environment. Changes too quickly can cause safety issues.
   2. Greyhounds should eat separately from other animals due to food being the number one reason for dog fights. They view food as a survival instinct.
   3. Intrusion of space by people or other animals may cause snapping or growling. They have had privacy as adults and are slow to change.
   4. The heart rates of Greyhounds are much lower than other breeds or humans. It is best to verbally train Greyhounds to get up.
   5. It is best to not allow Greyhounds on furniture, especially with children in home.
   6. Crating is best during cooking or mealtime due to Greyhounds having never been exposed to cooked food.