The Spanish Greyhound, a member of the sighthound family, claims as its descendant the English Greyhound. In the 20th century, the Galgos and Greyhounds were bred to produce a much faster Galgo to win track races. This breed is meant for running consistently over long distances.
The Spanish Greyhound grows to a height of 23 to 28 inches and a weight of 44 to 66 pounds. Spanish Galgos are higher in the back than in the front, with a smaller and lighter build than a standard Greyhound. They have long tails, streamlined skull, large ears and shallow chest. They may have one of two coat types: smooth or rough, both in a variety of patterns and hues. The coat features colorings of fawn, red or black, sometimes with white markings.
Personality
Galgos are even tempered and therefore gentle with children and even cats and other dogs. Laid back and quiet, these dogs are content to sleep all day. They’re not as excitable as other breeds so you can rest assured they won’t be knocking anyone down with their enthusiastic nature. Their reserved personality may appear like they are shy. They need to be socialized early on so that they get along with others and realize who their master is.
Breed Characteristics
Life Span: | 10 – 12 years |
Nicknames: | Galgo Espanol, Galgo, Spanish Galgo |
Spanish Greyhound Build Information
The Spanish Greyhound grows to a height of 23 to 28 inches and a weight of 44 to 66 pounds. Spanish Galgos are higher in the back than in the front, with a smaller and lighter build than a standard Greyhound. They have long tails, streamlined skull, large ears and shallow chest. They may have one of two coat types: smooth or rough, both in a variety of patterns and hues. The coat features colorings of fawn, red or black, sometimes with white markings.
Size: | Large |
Behaviour and Personality
Galgos are even tempered and therefore gentle with children and even cats and other dogs. Laid back and quiet, these dogs are content to sleep all day. They’re not as excitable as other breeds so you can rest assured they won’t be knocking anyone down with their enthusiastic nature. Their reserved personality may appear like they are shy. They need to be socialized early on so that they get along with others and realize who their master is.
Activity Level: | Not very active |
Affection Level: | Very affectionate |
Kid Friendliness: | Very friendly |
Appearance
Brush your Spanish Greyhound’s shorthaired coat once a week, trim his nails on a regular basis and don’t forget to clean the ears. Other than that, no outstanding grooming practices must be followed. Avoid bathing too often because this can strip the skin of essential oils, resulting in dry, itchy skin.
Shedding: | Moderate |
Grooming: | Low maintenance |
Spanish Greyhound Common Health Conditions
Not too many health problems exist for this breed, although they have a sensitivity to anesthesia. They don’t suffer from hip dysplasia, a common affliction with many dogs. These dogs need constant exercise to stay in good health, as they will sleep all day if not motivated. Sighthounds in general are prone to contracting osteosarcoma, which is a type of bone cancer.
Spanish Greyhound Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
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Breed Talents and Facts
The Spanish Greyhound needs long daily walks and jogs because of its high need for physical exercise. It’s important for the human to lead the dog to establish dominance early on. These dogs are well suited to apartment life as long as they get daily walks. Let them run free within a safe fenced-in area so they can run about. The Spanish Greyhound is also known as Galgo Español. The life expectancy of this breed is about 12 years.
Training: | Moderately easy |