Today the greyhound is popularly known as the world’s fastest dog; however, many do not know that this breed is among the oldest in history. Apparently, their ancestors have been traced back to the times of Ancient Greece, Egypt, and Persia. Since then, the lineage of this sighthound has undergone great diversification, resulting in the origin of different types of greyhounds and other similar dogs.
What are the greyhound type breeds? How did they arise and what characterizes them? Keep reading on Sweet Doggo to know all that and more…
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How many types of greyhounds are there?
From a technical point of view, kennel clubs recognize 2 types of greyhounds: racing greyhounds and show greyhounds. The main difference between both varieties is that the racing greyhound is usually smaller, with a height of 63.5 to 73.6 cm. For its part, the show greyhound is slightly larger and its height ranges from 66.04 to 76.2 cm.
In addition, racing greyhounds are lighter than show dogs. Males are always heavier than females in both types.
Now, from the popular point of view, the term “types of greyhound” refers to the different dogs’ considered greyhounds, and not to the variations within a breed as such. With that said, let’s see what those sighthounds are and how you can identify them.
The 15 Greyhound dog breeds
In general, there are 15 different greyhounds:
- Greyhound or English hound
- Spanish Greyhound
- Sloughi the Arabian Greyhound
- Borzoi or Russian Greyhound
- Greyhound or afghan hound
- Saluki the Persian Greyhound
- Whippet
- Scottish hound
- Galgo Azawakh
- Italian Greyhound
- pharaonic hound
- Podenco ibicenco
- Galgo Banjara
- Hungarian Greyhound
- Irish Wolfhound
According to the National Greyhounds Association (NGA), the official entity that regulates and organizes the practice of greyhound racing in the USA, other breeds such as the Greek greyhound and the kangaroo greyhound are added to this list, although they are most likely already extinct.
Likewise, some sources list the Basenji dog as another type of greyhound.
1. Greyhound or English hound
Known colloquially as the “Ferrari” of the canine world, the Greyhound is considered the fastest dog in existence. It is said that it can reach speeds of up to 72 km/h. It is also one of the oldest breeds, whose earliest ancestors seem to have emerged in ancient Egypt.
Thanks to his personality and refined physical appearance, his story describes him as a favorite companion of royalty. Likewise, he was raised as a hunter given his great skill in chasing hares, foxes, and deer.
It is a type of large greyhound, sometimes giant. The slim, slender, elegant conformation, the S-shaped body, and the long narrow head are some of its main physical characteristics.
The modern English Greyhound excels not only as a family pet but as an athlete in racing events.
- Origin: United Kingdom
- Temperament: intelligent, gentle, affectionate, calm, even-tempered, agile
- Life expectancy: 10-13 years
2. Spanish Greyhound
The Spanish Greyhound is another very old greyhound-type breed; in fact, it is said that it is one of the ancestors of the English greyhound. Historically, it was used to hunt hares, wild boars, and foxes.
This dog is similar in appearance to its English cousin but is distinctly different in conformation. Spanish greyhounds are taller at the rear than at the front and have flatter musculature.
They also tend to be smaller, with a lighter build, longer tail, and a noticeably elongated, streamlined head that gives the impression of larger ears.
The breed exhibits two types of coat, hence the existence of the Spanish smooth-haired greyhound and the Spanish wire-haired greyhound.
- Origin Spain
- Temperament: affectionate, calm, friendly, quiet
- Life expectancy: 12-15 years
3. Arabian Greyhound
The Arabian greyhound, sometimes called the Sloughi, is another variety of greyhounds that closely resembles the traditional greyhound. This athletic sighthound was once used as a hunter in the deserts of North Africa due to its exceptional ability to catch prey.
It is a large, tall, and slender greyhound, with the typical long and elegant head. His gaze is a clear reflection of his noble and gentle personality.
Be warned that given his history as a protector of Saharan nomads, he can be quite reserved with strangers. On the contrary, it develops a very strong bond with its owner and the rest of the human pack.
- Origin: Morocco
- Temperament: affectionate, alert, cheerful, independent, intelligent, loyal, protective
- Life expectancy: 12-16 years
4. Russian Greyhound
Popularly known as the Borzoi, this is a large, handsome, long-haired greyhound. The Russian Greyhound was traditionally used for hunting small game, especially wolves. It was often presented as a gift among members of the European nobility; it was almost never sold.
The breed retains the classic greyhound build necessary for running at speed but is larger and stronger than the English Greyhound. The long, silky coat, which can be flat, wavy, or curly, provides protection from cold weather and snow.
Although Borzois have a background as fierce hunters, the truth is that today they are admired for their noble and respectful behavior.
- Origin: Russia
- Temperament: gentle, independent, intelligent, calm, courteous
- Life expectancy: 10-12 years
5. Afghan hound
Perhaps this is one of the most recognizable and admired types of greyhounds. His natural elegance and impressive long coat leave no one indifferent. The origin of the Afghan hound has located thousands of years ago in the cold mountains of Afghanistan, where it was known by the name of Tazi.
Typically, it was used for hunting gazelles, rabbits, and foxes. Compared to other greyhounds, the Afghan Hound has a steep pelvis and a shorter back, traits that were essential for jumping great heights and turning almost on the spot.
Similarly, its large legs gave it a better foothold and were more resistant to injury on rough terrain. The long, silky fur protected it from the cold nights at high altitudes.
Today, the Afghan hound dazzles everyone with its beauty and independent, undemonstrative personality. It is said that it can be an excellent pet for families with children and people with allergies. It is a hairy greyhound, but hypoallergenic.
- Origin: Afghanistan
- Temperament: aloof, independent, dignified, cheerful, playful
- Life expectancy: 12-14 years
6. Persian Greyhound
The Persian greyhound, the royal dog of Egypt or simply Saluki, is considered one of the dogs closest to the beginning of human civilization, specifically in the Fertile Crescent region of the Middle East. This breed was used by royalty as a hunting sighthound for thousands of years.
It has a very particular appearance, which differentiates it from any other type of greyhound. In addition to the rather pronounced S-shaped body, their coat can develop beautiful feathery hairs on the ears, tail, and backs of the legs.
Slender, distinguished, and athletic, the Saluki is a born runner. His long and powerful legs allow him to be crowned one of the fastest greyhounds. In fact, he has won the Guinness World Record for the fastest dog in the world.
As a pet, it is usually recommended for experienced owners. They are known to be very independent, aloof, and difficult to train at times.
- Origin: Middle East
- Temperament: aloof, intelligent, quiet, reserved, loyal
- Life expectancy: 12-14 years
7. Whippet
The Whippet is said to be one of the most sociable greyhound-type dogs in existence. Unlike most sighthounds, this one is usually friendly and kind to everyone, even strangers.
The breed was developed in the late 19th century by crossing between the English Greyhound, the Italian Greyhound, and a terrier-type dog. Its name is derived from the expression “whip it”, which means “to move quickly”.
It is an exceptional runner in short distances, being able to reach speeds of up to 60 km/h in just seconds.
The Whippet is described by many as a miniature greyhound, characterized by the same sleek, curvaceous, and streamlined silhouette of its relatives.
- Origin: United Kingdom
- Temperament: affectionate, friendly, gentle, intelligent, lively, calm
- Life expectancy: 12-15 years
8. Scottish Deerhound
The Scottish Deerhound is a breed of powerful greyhound originally bred to hunt red deer. With a weight of up to 110 pounds and a maximum height of 81 cm at the withers, it is not only a giant among greyhounds but also one of the largest dogs in the world.
Despite being large and heavy, he can run at high speeds without sacrificing strength and stamina. His high energy levels and that natural instinct to pursue and please make him a better choice for living in large spaces with active families.
One of its most striking physical attributes is its wavy, loose fur that gives it that disheveled appearance.
- Origin: United Kingdom
- Temperament: dignified, docile, friendly, gentle, calm
- Life expectancy: 8-10 years
9. Galgo Azawakh
The Azawakh is closely related to the Arabian Greyhound or Sloughi, but they are not exactly the same. Although both breeds hail from North Africa and were used as hunting dogs, the Azawakh exhibits a more headstrong and regal temperament. Particularly slender and elegant, his structure and muscles are visible under fine skin.
Since it was also used as a guard in the past, this breed still has a certain tendency towards vigilance. They are not very affectionate and tend to be reserved with strangers.
In general, it is recommended for people who know how to show fair and firm leadership.
- Origin: Mali
- Temperament: reserved, attentive, loyal, dignified, strong
- Life expectancy: 10-12 years
10. Italian Greyhound
The Italian is a very special type of greyhound since unlike most sighthounds, it is a small breed. It is said to be descended from the small sighthounds that originated in ancient Egypt. This miniature greyhound is still graceful and elegant.
His body has the same characteristics that allow him to run at maximum speed. In fact, it loves to run and chase prey. However, at an approximate height of 33 to 38 cm and a weight of 3.5 to 8 kg, it is a toy-sized Greyhound bred solely as a companion dog, not as a hunter.
As a pet, the Italian Greyhound is sensitive and gentle. He tends to behave shy and reserved with strangers, but is affectionate and devoted to family.
- Origin: Italy
- Temperament: affectionate, agile, companion, intelligent, mischievous
- Life expectancy: 12-15 years
11. Pharaonic Hound
The Pharaonic Hound, the official dog of Malta, can trace its lineage back to ancient Egypt, from whose temples impressively similar representations of dogs have been obtained. This breed has a very special character and that is that, despite being considered a type of sighthound, it can use both smell and sight to hunt.
His body exhibits a not-so-marked greyhound build, combining grace, power, and speed. A little longer than he is tall, his walk is free and fluid, always with his head held high. Although he is a calm dog indoors, he loves to run and chase strange animals.
As a pet, it is usually independent, but at the same time, it wants to please.
- Origin: Malt
- Temperament: active, affectionate, intelligent, playful,
- Life expectancy: 12-14 years
Did you know…? A very curious fact about this type of greyhound is that it can blush. The nose and ears turn pink when excited.
12. Podenco ibicenco
According to historians, the origin of the Ibizan greyhound or podenco dates back to 3400 BC, and the arrival of their ancestors on the island of Ibiza occurred at the hands of Phoenician traders. This breed was bred for thousands of years as hunting dogs, with rabbits as their main prey. He is a hunter who uses sight as well as hearing and smell.
He has excellent skills as a jumper; in fact, he can jump great heights just by standing still.
This type of Spanish Greyhound is easy to distinguish by its deer-like expression, as well as its wide, upright ears.
- Origin Spain
- Temperament: active, funny, independent, intelligent, stubborn
- Life expectancy: 12-14 years
13. Galgo Banjara
The Banjara is a little-known greyhound-type dog. Apparently, the breed had its origin in the Indian region of Rajasthan, from the cross between the Afghan greyhound and other local greyhounds. It is a large, slender greyhound, whose body exhibits the same proportions as its close relatives.
It is said that it can match the speed of the Greyhound but is much more resistant.
As a fellow of the Banjara nomadic peoples, he not only had a past as a hunter but also as a guardian and protector. That is why today he still retains a certain instinct of protection and loyalty towards his owner. In general, he behaves suspiciously towards strangers.
- Origin: India
- Temperament: affectionate, noble, protective, calm
- Life expectancy: 12-14 years
14. Hungarian Greyhound
Another breed not so mentioned is the Hungarian greyhound, a dog almost non-existent outside its country of origin. Although there are no precise details about its emergence, it is believed that it was from the cross between the English greyhound and various Asian greyhounds.
It is a muscular, well-proportioned, and elegant dog. His body has the same sharp, defined lines as the rest of the greyhounds. A very striking feature is its large oval eyes, which stand out on its narrow and elongated head.
Hungarian greyhounds have impressive physical resistance; they can run long distances as nothing happened. They are also excellent hunters.
- Origin: Hungary
- Temperament: affectionate, loyal, kind, calm, intelligent
- Life expectancy: 12-14 years
15. Irish Wolfhound
This greyhound or giant greyhound descends from the so-called “Scottish greyhounds”, however, it is originally from Ireland. As its size would not suggest, the wolfhound was used to hunt large prey such as deer and wolves. The combination of speed, agility, and power translated into a great ability to kill.
One of the unmistakable characteristics of the breed, in addition to its dimensions, is the appearance of its bristly and disheveled coat.
Today the Irish Wolfhound is described as a calm and friendly big man. He can bring out all his courage when he thinks it necessary, but he usually behaves in a patient and soft manner. He is usually somewhat reserved with strangers.
- Origin: Belgium, Ireland
- Temperament: dignified, loyal, kind, patient, intelligent, sweet
- Life expectancy: 6-10 years
Recommended: What are the Types of Hound? Trackers, Hunters, and Hounds
Are Greyhounds the right kind of dog for me?
If you are thinking of incorporating a greyhound into the family, it is important that you first consider some of the characteristics that distinguish these breeds. That way you will know if it is really the best pet for you.
