Spanish greyhound

Overall description of the breed

The Spanish Greyhound, also known as the Galgo, is a breed with ancient origins, although its true ancestry remains a subject of debate. It appears to have been imported to Europe from Asia several centuries before antiquity. The Romans had already adopted it during that era as a hunting dog, used to pursue hares, foxes, and even wild boars, due to its reputation for speed and agility. This intensive use greatly contributed to its development.

The arrival of the Spanish Greyhound in Spain was thanks to the Gauls, as early as the 6th century BC. Subsequently, the Anglo-Saxons also developed an affection for this breed, which is the ancestor of the English Greyhound, sharing many similarities with the latter. In the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries, numerous Galgos were exported to Ireland and England.

Today, the Spanish Greyhound is primarily used for hunting without firearms in Spain, where this practice is still allowed. It is also involved in sporting events such as El Campo (chasing a live hare), Lievre mecanica (chasing a mechanical lure), and Canadromo (racing in a dog track). Its athletic abilities have been officially recognized by international canine organizations, including the International Cynological Federation, which definitively registered the breed on August 10, 1971.

The Spanish Greyhound belongs to the category of medium-sized dogs, but it retains the typical physique of greyhounds: tall, slender, and graceful. Its morphology resembles that of the English Greyhound or Greyhound. Its body is nearly square, with a length equal to its height at the withers. It has a flexible and lightweight skeleton, well-developed musculature, and a light gait. Despite its compact appearance, it conceals exceptional top speed. Although primarily used for hare hunting, it stands out more for its speed than for its endurance.

The Spanish Greyhound has a deep and narrow chest that contrasts with its raised belly. Its chest is slightly broad, accompanied by discreetly wide shoulders. Its back is rounded, marked by a distinct withers, and the rear of its body is raised, a characteristic typical of the breed. Its tail, of medium length, is high-set on the loins and tapers gradually toward the tip.

Its head is elongated, fine, and deep, giving it a dynamic profile. Its narrow muzzle tapers to a point, with a subtle stop. Its ears are large relative to its skull, triangular in shape, and droop forward. Regarding its coat, it is short over the entire body, with all colors accepted according to the breed standard, although fawn, brindle, and black are more common.

The Spanish Greyhound is a gentle, discreet, and undemonstrative dog. It remains loyal to its master and can sometimes be tender, although its natural kindness may be masked by a cold temperament and a distant attitude. It enjoys playtime but in moderation, especially with children, as it tends to shy away from noisy environments. Thanks to its tracking and chasing talents, it excels in playful activities that engage its remarkable sense of smell. However, it may escape if its daily exercise needs are not met, as boredom can drive it to chase.

Training the Spanish Greyhound can be a challenge, as many individuals of this breed come from organizations that fight against the mistreatment they often endure, particularly in abusive sports practices in Spain. Patient, consistent, and non-violent retraining is necessary. Although it is not prone to barking and is sociable and calm indoors, the Spanish Greyhound makes a good family companion. However, due to its strong predatory instinct, it is recommended to familiarize it with small animals from a young age to prevent accidents.

This dog is wary of strangers, keeping its distance and not readily engaging with unfamiliar people. As a guard dog, it is ineffective due to its calm and silent nature. Nonetheless, it is affectionate toward its family and appreciates the affectionate gestures of its owners.

Regarding size and weight, males typically weigh between 55 to 66 pounds (25 to 30 kg), with a height at the withers of approximately 24.5 to 27.5 inches (62 to 70 cm), while females weigh 23.5 to 26.5 inches (60 to 68 cm) at the withers.