Explore a comprehensive hub dedicated to sighthound owners, offering in-depth guides, resources, and advice on caring for breeds like Greyhounds, Whippets, and more. From health and nutrition to exercise tips and boarding information, find everything you need to ensure your sighthound’s well-being.
Table Of Contents
1. Greyhounds: The Racing Stars
Overview: Greyhounds are often thought of as racing dogs, but they make wonderful pets. With their long, slim bodies and incredibly fast speeds (they can reach up to 45 miles per hour), Greyhounds are built for chasing, but they’re also affectionate and gentle.
- Speed: Known for being the fastest dog breed.
- Temperament: Gentle, calm, and easygoing.
- Exercise Needs: Moderate, despite their speed.
- Ideal Owner: Active individuals or families with access to large, safe spaces for runs.
Fun Fact: Greyhounds are often referred to as “couch potatoes” when at home—they love lounging around the house once they’re done exercising!
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2. Whippets: The Miniature Greyhound
Overview: Whippets are essentially the smaller, more compact version of Greyhounds. Known for their agility, Whippets can run at speeds up to 35 miles per hour. They’re also excellent companions for those who want a sighthound with a bit more adaptability to apartment living.
- Speed: 35 mph (faster than most other dog breeds).
- Temperament: Friendly, affectionate, and good with children.
- Exercise Needs: High, they love sprinting, but they also enjoy downtime.
- Ideal Owner: Families or individuals looking for a loving companion with a bit of energy.
Fun Fact: Whippets are incredibly quiet and tend to be excellent for apartment living as they don’t bark much.
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3. Lurchers: The Versatile Crossbreed
Overview: Lurchers are a mix of sighthound breeds, usually Greyhounds or Whippets, and other working breeds. This combination makes them incredibly versatile dogs, perfect for hunting, companionship, and agility sports. Their intelligence and adaptability make them excellent family pets.
- Speed: Similar to Greyhounds but with more stamina.
- Temperament: Energetic, friendly, and intelligent.
- Exercise Needs: High, but they adapt well to both outdoor and indoor living.
- Ideal Owner: Active individuals who enjoy outdoor activities and need a dog that can keep up.
Fun Fact: Lurchers are often used for hunting because they’re not only fast but also very clever.
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4. Italian Greyhounds: The Elegant Companion
Overview: Italian Greyhounds are a smaller breed of Greyhound, originally bred for companionship. With their graceful appearance and friendly nature, they make wonderful pets for people who want a lap dog with a little more elegance.
- Speed: Not as fast as larger Greyhounds but still quick.
- Temperament: Gentle, affectionate, and somewhat reserved.
- Exercise Needs: Moderate, they enjoy walks but also love lounging.
- Ideal Owner: People who want a companion dog that is easy to train and care for.
Fun Fact: Italian Greyhounds are known for being “velvety” to the touch due to their fine coat.
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5. Salukis: The Ancient Hunters
Overview: Salukis are one of the oldest known dog breeds, dating back to ancient Egypt. Their long legs and refined features give them an air of dignity, and their hunting instincts are still sharp today.
- Speed: Extremely fast, they were bred for hunting game.
- Temperament: Independent, loyal, and gentle.
- Exercise Needs: High, as they were bred for long hunting runs.
- Ideal Owner: Experienced dog owners who can provide a structured environment.
Fun Fact: Salukis have a reputation for being “cat-like” in their independence but are deeply affectionate with their families.
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6. Borzoi: The Russian Wolfhound
Overview: Borzoi are large, elegant dogs originally bred for hunting wolves in Russia. Their long coats and graceful appearance make them stand out in the sighthound group. Despite their hunting background, Borzoi are calm and laid-back at home.
- Speed: Fast runners with a smooth, effortless stride.
- Temperament: Quiet, independent, and gentle.
- Exercise Needs: Moderate, they enjoy a good run but are also content to relax.
- Ideal Owner: Those with a bit of space and patience for this independent breed.
Fun Fact: Borzoi are known for their “regal” appearance and are often described as having a noble demeanour.
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7. Afghan Hound: The Glamorous Beauty
Overview: Afghan Hounds are famous for their long, luxurious coats and distinctive appearance. They are independent and sometimes aloof, but they form deep bonds with their families. Their hunting skills are impressive, though they’re just as content lounging around the house.
- Speed: Fast and agile, though more known for their beauty.
- Temperament: Independent, dignified, and sometimes aloof.
- Exercise Needs: Moderate to high, they enjoy running.
- Ideal Owner: Experienced dog owners with a love for grooming.
Fun Fact: Afghan Hounds are often compared to “supermodels” due to their distinctive appearance and glamorous coats.
Why Choosing a Licensed Dog Boarder is Essential
When entrusting your beloved dog to a boarding facility, it’s vital to ensure that the dog boarder is
licensed. Licensing isn’t just a formality; it is a promise that the facility meets
established standards for safety, cleanliness, and care.
A licensed dog boarder is committed to providing an environment where your dog can feel safe, happy, and well cared for.
What Does Licensing Guarantee?
A licensed dog boarding facility has to comply with various legal and ethical requirements. These
guarantees include:
- High Safety Standards:
Facilities must follow strict safety protocols to prevent injuries or accidents. This includes secure
fencing, supervised play areas, and safe handling practices. - Clean and Hygienic Environment:
Regular cleaning and disinfection procedures are mandated to reduce the risk of infections and
diseases. Clean bedding, fresh water, and sanitised play spaces are standard requirements. - Trained and Certified Staff:
Licensed facilities employ staff who have undergone training in dog care, handling techniques, and
behaviour management. This ensures your dog receives professional and compassionate care. - Liability Insurance:
Licensed boarders carry liability insurance, offering financial protection in case of injuries or
unexpected incidents. This gives you peace of mind knowing your dog is in responsible hands. - Compliance with Local and Regional Regulations:
Boarding facilities must meet or exceed local animal welfare laws and regulations, ensuring they
operate ethically and responsibly.
Why Experience Matters
A licensed boarder is more likely to have extensive experience handling different dog breeds,
including sighthounds like greyhounds, whippets, and lurchers. Sighthounds have unique needs,
such as:
- Specialized Exercise Requirements:
Sighthounds are built for speed and require regular opportunities to run in secure environments. - Temperament Considerations:
Sighthounds can be sensitive and may need gentle handling, patience, and calm environments. - Health and Comfort Needs:
Their lean bodies can make them prone to cold, so licensed facilities often provide warm bedding,
jumpers, or coats.
Additional Trust Factors
Licensed facilities are often inspected regularly to ensure ongoing compliance. This means they
are evaluated on:
- Facility Conditions:
Regular assessments of the cleanliness, safety, and comfort of the boarding environment. - Emergency Preparedness:
Proper protocols in place for medical emergencies, including partnerships with local veterinarians. - Record-Keeping:
Accurate records of vaccinations, feeding schedules, and health conditions of each dog.
Peace of Mind for Pet Owners
Choosing a licensed dog boarder ensures that your dog is cared for by professionals who adhere to
the highest standards. It means your pet is in a secure, loving, and professionally managed
environment, allowing you to relax knowing that your furry friend is in good hands.
Remember: Your dog’s safety, comfort, and happiness are the top priority in any licensed
boarding facility.
Reserve Your Spot with K9 Exclusive Walks
Why You Should Consider a Greyhound as Your First Pet
Greyhounds may not be the first breed that comes to mind when choosing a first dog, but they are surprisingly great pets for new dog owners. These gentle giants are affectionate, easy-going, and relatively low-maintenance compared to other breeds. Their calm demeanour makes them great for homes of all sizes, and they adapt well to apartment living. Despite their racing background, Greyhounds enjoy lounging and are typically quite relaxed indoors. If you’re a first-time pet owner looking for a loving, intelligent companion, a Greyhound could be the perfect choice!
At K9 Exclusive Walks, we provide specialised care for Greyhounds, ensuring they thrive in both exercise and relaxation. Contact us today for more information on our tailored services.
Why You Should Consider Getting a Sighthound
If you’re looking for a loyal, intelligent, and active companion, a Sighthound could be the perfect addition to your family. Known for their speed and agility, Sighthounds like Whippets, Lurchers, and Greyhounds are great pets for active individuals or families who enjoy outdoor activities.
These dogs are not just athletic; they’re affectionate and form strong bonds with their owners. Their calm demeanour makes them excellent house pets, and their intelligence allows for easy training. If you’re ready for an energetic dog who loves both running and relaxing with the family, a Sighthound might be the right fit.loves both
Contact K9 Exclusive Walks to learn how we specialise in Sighthound care, training, and exercise. We can help ensure your Sighthound lives a happy, healthy life with tailored services to meet their needs.
K9 Exclusive Walks
At K9 Exclusive Walks, we understand the unique needs of Sighthounds, offering specialised daycare, boarding, and training services tailored to their specific traits. Our expert team provides structured 4-hour walk-training sessions that promote exercise and behavioural development in London’s open spaces. Whether you need a safe place for your dog to stay or personalised training to improve recall, we are here to support both you and your dog.
Our services include:
- Specialised Boarding & Daycare
- Personalised Training Programs
- Daily 4-Hour Walks & Training
- Secure, Private Play Areas
- Tailored Care for Nervous or Anxious Dogs
About Our Expert Care
Owned by Don Jordan, a passionate dog behaviourist, K9 Exclusive Walks ensures the highest standard of care. With certified dog training and canine first aid expertise, your Sighthound will be in safe hands. Whether you need boarding, daycare, or training, we are committed to delivering a stress-free, enriching experience for your dog.
Contact Us Today
Explore our services, ask questions, and book your dog’s stay by contacting us today! Visit our website for more details.
K9 Exclusive Walks Dietary Options
Raw
Breakfast: Bella & Duke Premium Complete – This nutritionally balanced raw dog food supports optimal health with high-quality, natural ingredients. It promotes a healthy digestive system, boosts energy levels, and supports a shiny coat and strong immune system.
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Dinner: Duck Wings, Frozen Veg, Pumpkin Seeds, Beetroot Powder, Celery Seeds, and Seaweed – A nutrient-dense meal providing high-quality protein, essential vitamins, and minerals. The seeds and seaweed offer antioxidants, supporting joint health and aiding digestion.
Benefits of Duck Wings in a Dog’s Diet:
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- High-Quality Protein – Supports muscle growth and repair.
- Healthy Fats (Omega-3) – Promotes joint health, reduces inflammation, and enhances coat shine.
- Dental Health – Chewing helps clean teeth, prevent plaque build-up, and strengthen jaws.
- Digestive Aid – Contributes to firmer stools and improved digestion.
- Joint Support – Naturally contains glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health.
- Hypoallergenic – Ideal for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies.
After Dinner: 100% Natural Air-Dried Chew Sticks – These natural chew sticks are great for dental health, helping to reduce plaque and tartar build-up. They also provide mental stimulation, satisfy chewing instincts, and are free from additives or preservatives.
Click here to order your Chew Sticks
Kibble & Tinned food
We don’t recommend kibble and tinned diets due to their high level of processing, which can result in a lack of essential nutrients, enzymes, and moisture — potentially affecting digestion, coat health, and dental hygiene.
However, we appreciate that these options may be more convenient or cost-effective. That’s why, upon request, we provide Millies & Wolfheart, a premium kibble and tinned food brand. To enrich the meals, we include a small blend of pumpkin seeds, beetroot powder, celery seeds, seaweed, and some chopped duck wings. Click here to read the benefits of duck wings.
To support your dog’s dental health, we give a 100% natural air-dried chew stick after each meal.
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