Could a retired greyhound be your perfect pet?
GBGB’s recently commissioned consumer research has identified the key traits that people look for in a furry friend.
Coinciding with the launch of GBGB and With A Greyhound’s ‘Adopt a Sporting Legend’ campaign which looks to bust common myths about the breed, the research highlighted the paw-dropping statistic that over a third of UK adults who would consider getting a dog, hadn’t considered an ex-racing greyhound, with the same amount completely unaware they were available for adoption.
A poll of 2,000 adults who either have, or would like, a canine, found 21 per cent want their hound to be good with other pets, while 19 per cent insist it has to love cuddles.
The research also found half (49 per cent) prioritise temperament, while a third (36 per cent) focus on health history and a fifth (21 per cent) consider trainability.
Retired greyhounds meet all three criteria, with well-documented health histories and basic training from their racing careers, yet, 36 per cent were unaware that retired racing greyhounds are available for adoption, despite their suitability as gentle, affectionate pets.
And 41 per cent wrongly believe greyhounds require lots of walking – when in fact they thrive on just two short strolls daily.
Other attributes would-be dog owners prefer to see include being comfortable left on their own (27 per cent) and minimal barking (24 per cent).
Mark Moisley, Commercial Director at GBGB said: “Bringing a dog into your life is a long-term commitment, and it’s essential to make sure you’re choosing a pet that suits your lifestyle.
“Different breeds have different needs, from exercise requirements to temperament, so it’s important to do your research before making a decision.
“Greyhounds are low-maintenance, calm, and affectionate dogs that thrive in various home environments.
“Their health and training backgrounds are well-documented, making them an excellent option for first-time and experienced owners alike.”
TOP TRAITS PEOPLE WOULD WANT IN A DOG:
- Affectionate and loyal
- Trustworthy around kids
- Intelligent and responsive
- Healthy and long-lived
- Comfortable being left alone
- To be easy to train
- Minimal barking
- Protective but not aggressive
- Good with other pets
- To be easy to toilet train
- Energy level suits lifestyle
- One that loved cuddles
- Sociable with strangers
- Low-shedding coat
- A laid-back personality
- Not to chew furniture
- Low grooming needs
- Not to smell
- One who made me laugh
- Doesn’t need to be walked too much
Want to find out more about taking home your very own retired sporting legend?