The fight still rages on to halt greyhound racing in the U.S., and a new global effort has been launched to bring it to an end once and for all. We can all play a part in helping to put a stop to this cruel sport — from supporting the new international campaign to donating our time and offering financial support to greyhound protection and rescue organizations.

Another important part of the end-greyhound-racing equation is fostering and adopting retired hounds. Like any other dog, greyhounds can be wonderful companions, but there are a few things to bear in mind before bringing them into your home. Below, read up on five things to know before adopting a loveable retired greyhound!

1. Greyhounds are pack animals and need to know who the “alpha” figure or pack leader is.

As a greyhound guardian, your companion will look to you for guidance and care. While a retired greyhound has come from a hard situation, be sure you take the time to properly train him or her and use positive reinforcement techniques when necessary.

2. Greyhounds need to be protected from extreme temperatures and environments.

Greyhounds are quite easy to live with, but because of their lack of body fat, long thin bones, and sensitive skin, they need to be looked after more carefully than a hardy dog fluffed with fur.

3. Greyhounds may have little fur, but they still shed lightly.

While this may be the case, greyhounds are easy to groom with a simple brush and can still be appropriate companions for certain households with allergies.

4. Greyhounds need to be taught about common household fixtures like steps and glass doors.

At the race track, greyhounds are rarely or sometimes never exposed to these physical structures and so once they are rescued and brought into a home, they must be taught about them. If your hound has trouble with steps, be sure to practice with him or her until it becomes natural. For glass doors, it is advised that the bottom half of them are frosted to prevent run-ins.

5. Greyhounds are known as “40 mph couch potatoes.”

Even though the dogs are exploited in racing and may have their sudden bursts of energy, they are calm and unstrung dogs.

Have any other tips to add to this list? Share them with us and other Green Monsters with a comment below!

To find out more about greyhounds, visit GREY2K USA and the National Greyhound Adoption Program.

Image source: Superjet / Wikipedia Commons