At a glance
- Dental disease affects 39% of Greyhounds, making daily tooth brushing and regular professional cleanings essential
- Their deep chest makes them prone to life-threatening bloat, requiring careful feeding practices and emergency awareness
- Musculoskeletal issues like arthritis and bone cancer are common due to their racing background and unique build
- These dogs have unique drug sensitivities and bleeding tendencies that require breed-aware veterinary care
Understanding your dog's unique health profile
When you bring a Greyhound into your home, you're welcoming a breed with very specific health considerations. Their lean build, racing history, and unique physiology create a distinct set of health challenges that differ significantly from other breeds. Research shows these elegant dogs face particular vulnerabilities that, when understood and managed properly, need not diminish their quality of life.
Many owners are surprised to learn that their gentle companion requires more intensive dental care than most breeds, or that a simple meal could potentially become a medical emergency. These aren't reasons for concern, but rather important knowledge that helps you provide the best possible care for your dog.
The dental care challenge
You'll likely notice your Greyhound's breath before you see other signs of dental problems. Periodontal disease affects about 39% of these dogs, making it far more common than in most other breeds. This isn't simply about bad breath or yellow teeth. Left untreated, dental disease can lead to pain, difficulty eating, and even systemic health problems.
The solution starts with daily tooth brushing using dog-specific toothpaste. Products like Virbac C.E.T. enzymatic toothpaste work particularly well for most dogs. Dental chews such as Greenies can supplement your daily routine, though they shouldn't replace brushing entirely. Your veterinarian may also recommend prescription dental diets like Hill's Prescription Diet t/d, which are formulated to help reduce tartar buildup.
Professional dental cleanings become essential, typically needed annually or even more frequently depending on your dog's individual needs. These procedures require anaesthesia, allowing your vet to scale below the gum line where most damage occurs. The cost ranges from $300 to $800 depending on the severity of disease and your location, but this investment prevents far more serious and expensive problems later.
Recognising and preventing bloat
Have you wondered why experienced owners seem so particular about feeding schedules and exercise timing? The answer lies in a condition called gastric dilation-volvulus, or GDV, which can be fatal within hours. The deep chest that gives Greyhounds their distinctive silhouette also predisposes them to this emergency condition where the stomach fills with gas and potentially twists.
Watch for these warning signs: a distended abdomen, attempts to vomit that produce nothing, excessive drooling, restlessness, or obvious abdominal pain. If you see any combination of these symptoms, seek emergency veterinary care immediately. Time truly matters with GDV.
Prevention focuses on feeding practices. Divide your dog's daily food into two or three smaller meals rather than one large portion. Avoid vigorous exercise for at least an hour before and after meals. Some veterinarians recommend elevated feeding bowls, though recent research suggests this may actually increase risk in some dogs, so discuss this with your vet.
Managing musculoskeletal concerns
Many retired racing dogs develop arthritis, affecting anywhere from 4.6% to 18% of the breed according to various studies. You might notice stiffness when your dog first gets up, reluctance to jump, or subtle changes in gait. These signs often develop gradually, making them easy to miss initially.
More seriously, osteosarcoma (bone cancer) appears in about 6% of these dogs, typically affecting the forelimbs. Sudden onset lameness, especially if accompanied by swelling or obvious pain, warrants immediate veterinary attention. Early diagnosis significantly improves treatment options and outcomes.
Treatment for arthritis often includes NSAIDs like Rimadyl or Metacam, prescribed and monitored by your veterinarian. Joint supplements containing glucosamine and chondroitin may provide additional benefit, though results vary between individual dogs. Physical therapy and controlled exercise help maintain muscle tone and joint mobility without overstraining aging joints.
Weight management becomes crucial for dogs with joint problems. Even a few extra kilograms place significant additional stress on already compromised joints. Your vet can help determine the ideal weight range for your individual dog.
Genetic conditions and breeding considerations
Polyneuropathy represents one of the more challenging genetic conditions affecting some bloodlines. This nerve disorder causes progressive muscle weakness, particularly in the hindlimbs, leading to an abnormal "bunny-hopping" gait and exercise intolerance. Unfortunately, no cure exists, though supportive care and physical therapy can help maintain quality of life.
If you're considering breeding, genetic testing becomes essential. Tests typically cost between $50 and $150 per condition but can prevent passing serious genetic disorders to future generations. Even if you're not breeding, understanding your dog's genetic background helps you and your veterinarian watch for early signs of inherited conditions.
Breed-specific medical considerations
Your veterinarian needs to know they're treating a Greyhound before administering any anaesthesia or medication. These dogs have unique metabolism and low body fat percentages that affect how they process drugs. What's safe and effective for a Labrador might be dangerous for your dog.
Similarly, expect longer bleeding times after surgery or injury. Research shows these dogs have naturally lower platelet counts and different clotting factors compared to other breeds. This isn't necessarily problematic, but it requires awareness and appropriate precautions during medical procedures.
Female dogs show higher rates of urinary incontinence, affecting about 3.4% compared to just 0.4% of males. If you notice involuntary urine leakage, especially when your dog is relaxed or sleeping, discuss treatment options with your vet. Medications like phenylpropanolamine often provide effective management.
Creating a comprehensive health plan
Regular veterinary check-ups become even more important given these breed-specific concerns. Annual examinations should focus particularly on dental health, joint function, and overall body condition. For dogs over seven years old, consider biannual visits to catch age-related changes early.
Budget for breed-specific care needs. Beyond routine veterinary costs, factor in regular dental cleanings, potential joint supplements, and the possibility of emergency treatment for conditions like GDV. Pet insurance can help manage unexpected costs, particularly for emergency surgery that can reach $2,000 to $5,000 or more.
Keep emergency contact information readily available, including after-hours veterinary clinics familiar with sight hound breeds. Know the route to your nearest emergency facility and keep a basic first aid kit on hand. Most importantly, trust your instincts. You know your dog's normal behaviour better than anyone, and subtle changes often signal the need for veterinary attention.
