Before They Arrive: The Set-Up
Greyhounds spend much of the day asleep. They are big, gentle, and surprisingly tidy houseguests, but they will need a few things ready and waiting. Don't overthink it — it's mostly the basics, done well.Your first-30-days checklist
- A proper bed. A thick, orthopaedic-style bed is non-negotiable. Greyhounds have very little body fat and bony hips — a thin bed won't cut it. Position it somewhere quiet, but where they can still see you.
- A martingale collar and a sturdy lead. Greyhounds have slim heads and standard collars can slip off. A martingale tightens just enough to be safe — never tight enough to choke.
- A fitted coat. Yes, really. With minimal fat and short fur, greyhounds feel the cold quickly. A coat for cool mornings and wet weather is a kindness, not a fashion choice.
- Stainless steel or ceramic bowls on a non-slip mat. Tiled floors and long legs don't mix.
- High-quality dry food, plus the food your greyhound has been eating in foster care. Transition gradually over 7–10 days.
- A baby gate or two. Useful for slowly introducing your greyhound to different rooms and giving them their own quiet zone.
- Secure fencing. A minimum 1.5m (ideally 1.8m) fence with no gaps underneath. Greyhounds can clear surprising heights when something interesting moves on the other side.
If you'd like a hand picking the right bed, coat or food for your dog's age and size, our team in store knows greyhounds well — feel free to bring photos and details from your GAP adoption pack and we'll help you build the right kit.
Week One: The Quiet Settling-In
Resist the urge to throw a welcome party. Most greyhounds have come straight from a kennel environment into your home, and almost everything is new — stairs, glass doors, polished floorboards, the rumble of a dishwasher, the postie. Calm, predictable, low-stimulation days are the goal.
Expect your new dog to:
- Sleep. A lot. 16–20 hours a day is normal. They are not depressed. They are simply very, very good at relaxing.
- Be a bit cautious of normal house things. Tiles can feel like ice. Mirrors are confusing. Glass doors are invisible. Be patient — they'll work it all out.
- Not know how to play with toys yet. Many haven't seen a squeaky toy before. Some learn fast, some never quite get it. Both are fine.
- Have the occasional toilet accident. They're learning what indoors means. Frequent, calm trips outside — first thing in the morning, after meals, after naps, last thing at night — solve this quickly.
Weeks Two and Three: The Real Personality Appears
This is the bit nobody tells you about, and it's our favourite stage. Once a greyhound feels safe, the personality you were promised in their GAP profile starts to show up. The cuddler comes out from under the doona. The clown discovers the ball. The serious introvert finds their favourite human and follows them everywhere.
Some lovely surprises to look forward to:
- "Roaching." Sleeping flat on their back with all four legs in the air. It is ridiculous. It is also the highest possible compliment to your home — they only roach when they feel completely safe.
- The lean. A full-bodyweight lean against your leg is a greyhound's version of a hug.
- The "zoomies." Short, joyful sprints around the backyard. Catch them on video.
- The chatter. They rarely bark, but many will sing, hum or make small woo-woo sounds when they're pleased to see you.
Walking, Exercise and the Lead
Greyhounds are sprinters, not marathoners. Two short walks a day — 15 to 20 minutes each — is plenty for most adult dogs. Older greyhounds may want even less.
The most important rule, and we cannot say this loudly enough: greyhounds must never be off-lead in an unfenced area. They are sighthounds. They can spot something moving a kilometre away and be in full sprint before you can finish a sentence. A securely fenced yard or a fully enclosed dog park is the only safe option for off-lead time.
Meals, Treats and Tummy Quirks
Most greyhounds do best on two meals a day with a high-quality dry food appropriate for large breeds. Some are fussier than others, especially in the first couple of weeks while everything feels new. Stick to the food your dog has been eating in care, then transition slowly. Plain treats and chew toys are great. Rich human food is not.
A few greyhounds have sensitive stomachs while they settle. If you'd like advice on a transition diet, our team is happy to help you choose something gentle.
Vet, Insurance and the Important Admin
Within the first two weeks, book a check-up with your local vet so they have a baseline for your dog. Sort pet insurance early — premiums are usually lower while your greyhound is fit and well. Pop a tag on the new collar with your phone number, and confirm the council registration is in your name.
When to Ask for Help
Greyhounds As Pets stays involved long after adoption day, and so do we. If your new family member seems anxious, isn't eating, or is doing something that feels off, please ask. The GAP team includes vets and animal behaviourists, and our staff in store have helped hundreds of families through this exact transition. There is no silly question.
Most importantly: enjoy this. The first month with a greyhound is funny, occasionally messy, and quietly magical. You're giving a dog a soft landing into the rest of their life — and they will thank you in leans, roaches and a lifetime of loyal company.
Meet your new best friend
Greyhounds As Pets is hosting an adoption day at Kellyville Pets on Saturday 16 May, 10am – 1pm. Come and meet the dogs hoping to find their forever home.
Learn More & Register