Let your greyhound get used to the house, “his new kennel,” before you introduce him to other pets in the household. It’s a rare greyhound that does not get along with any type of pet, BUT BE CAREFUL AT FIRST! The introduction and the first few days of co-habitation are critical — not only for your new greyhounds well-being, but for that of all your other pets. Every group should screen every greyhound they place. Greyhound Gang introduces all greyhounds to cats, little dogs, horses, kids, etc. I know each dog’s predisposition before we place him.
To ensure there are no problems with introductions, use a muzzle. Please use it for the first introductions to small animals. Muzzling the greyhound is not cruel. They have been wearing a muzzle for as long as they have been wearing a collar. It is more cruel to the dog to give him the opportunity to make a dreadful mistake such as grabbing or hurting your small animal, and then being angry with the dog. The greyhound simply does not know better, and until you teach him to behave properly around small animals, use the muzzle!
Other Dogs
Your greyhound should get along well with other dogs as he has had lots of “socialization” experience in the racing kennel. Watch all the introductions carefully, however, as the “old dog” may be jealous of the newcomer. And the dogs will need to establish who’s the top dog. This will take some time, but with caution and patience, it will work out fine.
Again, I suggest using a muzzle for introductions to small dogs, and keeping your greyhound on a leash. Greyhounds who have never seen a small dog may initially think he is something that should be chased and caught. With strong verbal reprimands from you (and a few from the little guy, as well) the greyhound will quickly learn who’s the boss.
Cats
All of nature is telling the greyhound that the cat would be fun to chase and catch. All you have to do is tell the greyhound that both of these are bad ideas. Show your greyhound that the cat is a loved member of the family, a pretty tough character, and OFF LIMITS!!! They will be quick to respond to all kinds of encouragement. If you are lucky, your cat will help out by being pretty bold, and will make clear to the greyhound that he’s the boss.
Remember, while making the introductions between cat and greyhound, keep the muzzle on the greyhound. No matter how the first meeting goes, the greyhound cannot hurt the cat while muzzled.
A final note about cats and greyhounds. Most greyhounds, once they have accepted the cat, get along quite well all the time. But occasionally a greyhound who accepts a cat indoors may not apply the same rules of behavior outdoors. Be very careful if you allow cat and greyhound outside at the same time. Greyhounds are sighthounds, and outside their instincts may take over, and they will give chase to the cat. Most cats can outrun dogs, but greyhounds, being the fastest breed of dog, are fast enough to catch them. The cat may not know the dog is after it until it is too late, as greyhounds do not bark even while chasing something. And always keep in mind that though your greyhound may totally accept your cat, his acceptance may not apply to your neighbor’s cats.
About 20% of all greyhounds can not live with a cat. Every reputable adoption group cat tests, and would never willingly place a non-cat safe greyhound in a home with cats.
Birds
Introduction of a greyhound to a caged bird follows the basic procedures detailed above. Holding the collar, accompanied by a low bellowed “NO!” will do wonders. A flying bird though will be a big temptation, so keep your greyhound muzzled and next to you if your bird is flying around.
Horses
If you own horses, remember that greyhounds have absolutely no sense when it comes to behavior around horses. They may not understand how a horse moves. Around horses, the greyhound could be seriously injured by a kick. Like in everything else, these dogs are highly intelligent, and it won’t take them long to understand about horses, but until they do, don’t let them get hurt.