Spanish Greyhound Dog Breed Information

Posted on Sep 30, 2019, Modified : Jan 31, 2020 Zina

Spanish Greyhound origin, behavior, and training

Breeds

Country of Origin	Spain
Nicknames and Other Names	Galgo Español
Scientific Name	Canis lupus familiaris
Breed Type	Purebred
Group	Sighthound
Bred For	Hunting through sight
Size	Large-Sized
Recognized By	FCI, UKC
Life Span	12-15 Years
Ideal Weight	Male: 60-65 Pounds Female: 50-55 Pounds
Ideal Height	Male: 26 Inches Female: 25 Inches
Fur Type	Short, Smooth or Rough
Common Colors	Combination of Black, Cinnamon, Yellow, White
Markings	Black, White, Yellow
Availability	Moderately Available
Achievements	None
Suitable for Apartments	Moderately Suitable
Used in World War	No
Most Similar To	Greyhound

Spanish Greyhound is a large-sized dog that closely resembles the Greyhound. It is also known as Spanish Galgo and is an ancient breed of dogs. It has a very much similar appearance to the Greyhound both are different breeds.

Anyone who is looking for a gentle and loving dog as a pet, Spanish Greyhound is best for them. They need a loving as well as an active dog owner who can fulfill their physical activities requirements. A busy person should not own this breed due to their neediness of human company.

Origin and History

The Spanish Greyhound was originated in Spain as a hunting dog breed. The name Galgo is believed to be derived from Latin “Canis Gallicus” or “Dog from Gaul”. There is a lot of theories about its lineage where some believe that it is a crossbreed between Italian Greyhound, Sloughi, and even the Deerhound. It was bred for hunting and coursing hare.

The FCI and the United Kennel Club has recognized this breed under the group of the sighthound.

Temperament, Behavior, and Personality

Temperament: The temperament of the Spanish Greyhound is sweet, gentle, active, and very loving. They form a very strong bond with their people and are extremely loyal and affectionate towards them. Their gentle and friendly nature makes them an excellent family pet.

Behavior: Spanish Greyhound thrives in the company of its people. So, if they are left alone for a long period of time without human interaction, they tend to face separation anxiety and can become anxious. They also have a high prey drive due to which they are likely to hurt small animals. Therefore, it is better to keep them in a fenced yard or keep them on a leash.

Personality: The personality of the Spanish Greyhound is calm, quiet, gentle, and patient. They are not stubborn or have and of their own. They will follow your lead and are co-dependent which can be burdensome at times.

Spanish Greyhound jumping over the fence.
Image Source: Greyhound Crossroads

Trainability

The Spanish Greyhound is not a hard dog to train as they are eager to please their owner. They are smart and catch up on new commands and instructions quickly. They need to be trained by using positive reinforcement and by being gentle and patient. Reward them with delicious treats and a gentle pat on their back as they complete a certain task to motivate them.

Is Spanish Greyhound Child-Friendly?

Spanish Greyhound is a very gentle, friendly, and quiet dog that is not aggressive or forceful on small kids. They will sit beside your kids and play with them all day long. Although small children might play rough by pinching and pulling their skin, so close supervision is always necessary.

A baby and a Spanish Grayhound taking a nap.
Image Source: Instagram-@deef01

Facts

The American Kennel Club has not yet recognized this breed (as of 2019).

Health Issues

General Health	Healthy
Common Health Issues	Hip Dysplasia, Bone Cancer, Patellar Luxation, Hypothyroidism, Glaucoma
Hypoallergenic	No
Vaccination Required	Rabies, Canine Coronavirus, Kennel Cough, Canine Parvovirus, Canine Parainfluenza, Canine Distemper, Leptospirosis
Shedding	Moderate Shedder
Drooling	Moderate Drooler
Grooming	Easy Minimal Grooming Required
Weight Gain Potential	Average
Separation Anxiety	Moderate Chance
Allergies	None
Diets and Supplements	Protein: 23% Fat: 8% Glucosamine Probiotics Multivitamins Digestive Enzymes

The Spanish Greyhound is prone to some canine health problems which are the following:

Bone Cancer: Bone cancer can occur in any breed of dog but most commonly it occurs in large-sized dogs. It is a very serious disease and once causes, it can spread very fast. So, start treatment as soon as the dog is diagnosed.
Hip Dysplasia: The condition where the hip joints of the dog are dislocated from its original place or underdeveloped is called hip dysplasia. It can be painful for your dog once the disease gets serious. So timely treatment is recommended.