Greyhound longevity and hereditary health: Comprehensive guide

The Greyhound is one of Europe's oldest dog breeds, beloved as a sighthound renowned for its speed and elegance. Traditionally used for hare coursing and racing, today many Greyhounds are cherished pets, especially those rehomed after racing careers in the UK. This guide explores the breed's longevity, hereditary health risks, and responsible care essential to maximise quality and length of life.

Understanding Greyhound Longevity

Greyhounds typically live between 10 and 15 years, with many sources citing an average of around 11 to 13 years. Studies show females often live slightly longer than males, with median ages of approximately 11.8 years for females and 11.2 for males. While ex-racing Greyhounds may experience injuries affecting their lifespan, with attentive care their longevity approaches or exceeds breed averages.

Their slim, streamlined body is expertly built for sprinting rather than endurance, making their exercise needs specific and balanced rest important. Proper diet, regular veterinary visits, and a comfortable home life strongly influence their overall health and lifespan.

Key Hereditary Health Concerns and Genetic Diversity

Greyhounds are generally considered a healthy breed when compared to many large purebreds, partially thanks to selective breeding that reduces common inherited diseases. However, the breed's coefficient of inbreeding is around 8.8%, which is above the optimum level of 6.25%, prompting breeders to strive for greater genetic diversity.

Common hereditary health issues include:

• Osteosarcoma (Bone cancer): A significant concern in Greyhounds, whether retired racers or pets. This aggressive cancer is under ongoing research to understand genetic factors affecting risk.
• Cardiac conditions: Minor heart murmurs and other cardiac diseases are occasionally reported, necessitating veterinary monitoring.
• Polyneuropathy: A genetic condition causing exercise intolerance and muscle weakness, detectable through DNA testing.
• Hip dysplasia: Less frequent but still a concern in some lines.
• Other conditions: Include esophageal achalasia affecting swallowing, sensitivity to certain anaesthetics (notably thiopentone), Von Willebrand’s disease affecting clotting, and pattern baldness.

Responsible Health Testing and Care Practices

Breed organisations and veterinary associations recommend several health screenings to enhance Greyhound welfare and breeding quality:

• Eye testing: Screening for lens luxation and progressive retinal atrophy to prevent blindness.
• DNA testing: Particularly for polyneuropathy and clotting disorders like Von Willebrand’s disease.

Greyhounds require special consideration due to their short, fine single coat and minimal body fat, which makes them sensitive to cold and prone to skin injuries. Providing warm bedding and protection from harsh weather is essential, especially for ex-racing dogs adapting to home life.

General Health and Wellbeing

Besides hereditary risks, Greyhounds may face various health challenges, including:

• Post-operative bleeding due to low platelet counts.
• Onychodystrophy causing brittle nails.
• Growth plate fractures in young racing dogs.
• Polyarthritis affecting multiple joints.
• Cancers including melanomas and other skin tumours.
• Chronic superficial keratitis causing eye inflammation.
• Meningoencephalitis, an autoimmune disorder.
• High blood pressure (hypertension).
• Rigid paralysis and post-exercise hypothermia, notably in racing or high-exertion dogs.
• Cutaneous vasculopathy causing painful skin ulcerations which heal slowly.

Conclusion and Responsible Ownership

Greyhounds are a relatively healthy breed with good longevity when given balanced care and regular vet attention. Choosing a Greyhound from reputable breeders or adopting a retired racer involves understanding their unique health needs and preparing to meet them thoughtfully.

Providing a calm, warm, and loving environment, conducting recommended health tests, and being vigilant about breed-specific conditions will help your Greyhound enjoy a long, happy life. Responsible ownership not only improves individual dog welfare but supports genetic diversity and overall breed health for future generations.