GPA is a volunteer organization dedicated to finding loving homes for greyhounds from dog tracks across the country. Through our community service work, we attempt to raise public awareness that these ex-racing purebred dogs make excellent, loving pets and that they are available for adoption into qualified homes.

What are GPA greyhounds?

Greyhounds placed through the GPA program are usually between 2 and 5 1/2 years old. These ex-racers are very intelligent and adaptable dogs who fit easily into their new home environment, following a brief adjustment period. They are eager to please and respond positively to any attention given them. The majority of ex-track greyhounds are quiet, clean, gentle, good-natured dogs who adapt and get along well with other animals and people. They seem grateful for their new homes and reward their new owners with never-ending affection. They do not require a great deal of space to run, as many people think, but they do need exercise. Inside the house, they enjoy curling up in the corner on a soft bed. Greyhound males stand 26 to 30 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 65 and 85 pounds. Females stand 23 to 26 inches at the shoulder and weigh 55 to 70 pounds. They come in many colors: black, white, several shades of brindle, fawn, red, or a combination of these colors. Many people assume these dogs are "grey" when, in fact, blue is the least common color of greyhound.

What is their life expectancy?

These purebred athletes enjoy many years of good health. With proper care, they have a life expectancy of twelve years or more.

How much does it cost to adopt and care for a greyhound?

A nominal adoption fee helps to defray the expenses GPA has incurred on behalf of the dog: spay/neuter procedure, vaccinations, dental cleaning, medical testing, etc. Caring for a greyhound costs on average $800-$1000 per year including their food, treats, toys, and routine medical maintenance like dental cleanings and vaccinations.

Do greyhounds need a lot of exercise?

Greyhounds are the fastest breed of dog but they are sprinters without a lot of endurance. A retired racer is quite content to be a "couch potato" and spend most of the day sleeping. Exercising with walks and occasional opportunities to run around in a fenced area is all that's required. Greyhounds can never be trusted off-lead in an unfenced area!

Are retired racing greyhounds already housebroken?

While racing, greyhounds are "kennel broken," which means they are trained not to relieve themselves in their living area. They are clean dogs by nature and would prefer to relieve themselves outdoors when given a choice. These two factors, combined with specific advice from a trained GPA representative at the time of adoption, lead to an easy transition into life as a house pet.

What kind of grooming do greyhounds require?

Greyhounds' coats are short and sleek, so they stay sweet-smelling for long periods in between baths. While frequent bathing is unnecessary, these dogs do seem to enjoy (understatement) the occasional brushing with a hound glove.

How are greyhounds with kids?

Greyhounds generally are not suitable for families with children under six years old. These "skinny" dogs cannot tolerate rough play due to their sensitive and delicate skin, sleek fur, and little body fat. Their natural speed, strength, and athleticism are not the best combination with babies, young children, or persons unsteady on their feet as they could easily be tipped over by a playful greyhound!

How are they with other pets?

Greyhounds are friendly by nature and socialize well with most family pets as a result of encounters with other greyhounds in the racing kennel. Even cats and small dogs are often easily accepted as family members. GPA has successfully placed thousands of greyhounds with happy owners who also have cats and small dogs. We get to know each and every dog as an individual and do our best to match the dog's personality to an ideal home environment.

What kinds of pets do retired racing greyhounds make? Greyhounds are affectionate, friendly dogs who thrive on the attention and human companionship and make terrific pets. Raised with their littermates where they competed for affection, greyhounds love becoming the center of attention as household pets. Greyhounds usually do not make good watchdogs; their friendly nature is not very threatening.

To Adopt a Greyhound

If you have been thinking about getting a pet, adopting a GPA greyhound may be right for you. You will be rewarded with many years of love and enjoyment. Adoption applications can be obtained on this site, by calling 702.392.5822 or e-mailing us. A local GPA representative will contact you when your completed application is returned to us.

Read more about greyhounds in the "Greyhound Guide", compliments of The Greyhound
Gang.  [ download here ]  Acrobat Reader is required.

How Else Can You Help?

If you are unable to adopt a greyhound, you can still help us: Make a donation. We are a non-profit organization staffed by volunteers. Our expenses run high and we frequently dip into our own pockets to make ends meet. We warmly appreciate contributions of money, supplies, bedding, and quality food.

Volunteer to help us.

We are grateful for volunteers to help with fundraising, public relations, transporting dogs, placement follow-ups, home visits, etc. Tell your friends about GPA and our wonderful greyhounds. Give us your ideas. We welcome new ideas to help us promote our program and improve operations. Sponsor a greyhound awaiting adoption.