Spanish Greyhound
Description
The Spanish Greyhound, or Galgo Español, is a sleek hunting dog with roots tracing back over two millennia in Spain. These dogs were bred for speed and endurance, historically chasing hares across rugged terrain. Their lean, muscular bodies and long legs give them an elegant, aerodynamic silhouette that’s unmistakable. They typically weigh between 50 and 65 pounds, with short coats that come in fawn, brindle, black, red, or white, often adorned with distinctive white or brindle markings. Despite their athletic build, Galgos are surprisingly calm indoors. They’re quiet companions who bond closely with their families but retain a strong prey drive, so smaller pets might not be safe around them. Their gentle nature and reserved demeanor make them excellent pets for owners who can provide regular exercise and mental stimulation without overwhelming them with constant activity.
Grooming
Spanish Greyhounds have short coats that are smooth or rough, requiring minimal but consistent care to keep them healthy. Their shedding is low, but dead hair tends to cling to the coat, so weekly carding is essential to maintain a clean, sleek appearance. Use a light slicker brush gently to avoid irritating their sensitive skin. For rough coats, handstripping every 8 to 12 weeks preserves the coat’s texture and vibrant color, especially important for brindle and fawn patterns which can dull without proper maintenance. • Card coat weekly to remove loose hair • Use gentle slicker brushing for smooth coats • Handstrip rough coats quarterly • Check and clean ears regularly • Trim nails every 3-4 weeks Pro tip: When handstripping, focus on the areas around the neck and shoulders where the coat is thickest to keep the texture consistent and prevent matting.
Learn the Smooth routine:
→ Complete Smooth Grooming Guide
Walking
Spanish Greyhounds need about 100 minutes of walking daily, split into two sessions to balance their bursts of speed with recovery time. Morning walks can be brisk and focused on running or sprinting in a safe, enclosed area, while evening strolls should be calmer, allowing your dog to sniff and unwind. This routine helps manage their natural hunting instincts and keeps them physically fit without overexertion. Example routine: - 30-minute off-leash sprint session in a secure park - 40-minute relaxed leash walk around the neighborhood Consistency is key. Galgos thrive on predictable exercise schedules that engage both their bodies and minds, so mixing in scent games or light fetch during walks can keep them interested and happy.
Boarding
When boarding a Spanish Greyhound, provide a crate sized between 42 and 48 inches to accommodate their long, slender frame comfortably. These dogs appreciate a calm environment with a predictable daily routine to reduce stress. Staff should introduce themselves slowly and calmly, allowing the dog to build trust over time. Enrichment is crucial: offer two active play sessions daily combined with scent or brain games to keep their sharp minds engaged. Galgos tend to be gentle but may prefer quiet play styles rather than roughhousing. They benefit from soft bedding and a quiet corner to retreat to after activity. Staff should monitor interactions closely, especially with other dogs, to respect their reserved nature and avoid overstimulation. Keeping their environment consistent helps them settle quickly and enjoy their stay.