By Erin Lorde
Dog lovers all over the world know that our furry friends are more than just pets; they are part of the family. And like any family member, we want to ensure they live their best lives.
From healthy treats to engaging toys, we love to spoil our pooches. But sometimes, our well-meaning efforts can lead to mistakes, especially when it comes to retired or adopted greyhounds.
In this blog, we will cover some of the common misconceptions when feeding your pooch and provide tips and tricks to make sure your retired/adopted greyhound is paw-some!
Foods and snacks
When it comes to feeding your retired/adopted greyhound, choosing a balanced and high-quality diet is essential. Dog foods that are multi-coloured often lack the nutrients that your dog needs. It's best to stick to good quality kibble/wet food or raw.
Make sure to limit portions and avoid heavily seasoned, salted, or fatty foods.
Greyhounds need around 250-300 grams of meat per day supplemented with vegetables, fish oil, and dry food. Overfeeding your retired/adopted greyhound can lead to weight gain and other health problems.
It's also important to note that some human foods can be dangerous for dogs. For example, chocolate, grapes, and onions can be toxic to dogs, so make sure to avoid feeding these foods to your pooch even when they give you those puppy dog eyes… and always keep food out of reach, these cheeky chappies are notorious counter bandits!
Treats
Who doesn't love giving their furry friend a tasty treat? But not all treats are created equal. Many commercial treats contain ingredients that are harmful to your companion's health, such as artificial colours, flavours, and preservatives, Rawhide or Xylitol.
Treats could also consist of carrots, apples or peanut butter - just make sure it’s pet-friendly peanut butter (100% peanuts - it shouldn’t contain anything else).
However, even with healthy treats, moderation is key. Treats should make up no more than 10% of their daily diet, as overfeeding treats can lead to weight gain and other health problems.
Feeding utensils
Did you know that the type of feeding utensils you use can affect your dog's health?
Plastic is porous, allowing bacteria to seep in and get comfy, thriving off tiny bits of leftover food or even your pet’s saliva. Plastic bowls also invariably get small scratches over time, whether from being scrubbed, scratched, chewed, or dropped. These minuscule spaces give bacteria even more room to get comfy. Though you can wash the surface of the bowl clean, even the most diligent sponge can’t get at the microscopic bacteria.
To avoid these issues, opt for stainless steel or ceramic bowls that are easy to clean and won't cause any harm. Additionally, make sure you wash your dog's feeding utensils daily to keep them clean and free of bacteria.
Some owners like to also use a stand to lift the bowls off the ground which helps with posture and helps digestion.
Bed
Your retired/adopted greyhound needs a comfortable and safe place to sleep. Providing your pooch with their own designated bed is a great way to keep them happy and healthy.
Greyhounds love soft and cosy beds, so make sure to choose one that is large enough for them to stretch out comfortably. A bed with supportive padding can also help alleviate pressure points and ensure a good night's sleep.
Additionally, it's important to choose a location for their bed that is quiet and away from any distractions or loud noises. This will help your furry friend relax and get the rest they need to stay healthy and happy. You don’t have to spend a fortune either – a folded duvet is also ideal.
Toys
Engaging toys are essential for keeping your hound active and stimulated - but with so many options on the market, it can be challenging to know what to choose. Consider your greyhound's personality and preferences when selecting a toy. For example, choose a durable chew toy if they love to chew. If they enjoy chasing, consider a ball or frisbee.
However, it's important to supervise your retired/adopted greyhound when they are playing with toys, especially if the toy is rubber and can break into small pieces that can be chewed off and swallowed. Some greyhounds won't enjoy playing with toys so don’t be disheartened if they don’t.
Bonding activities
Bonding with your rescued greyhound is an important part of creating a loving and trusting relationship.
Spending quality time with your dog is crucial for building a strong bond, and bonding activities don't have to involve treats or toys - consider mental and physical activities like training sessions.
Greyhounds are intelligent dogs and enjoy learning new things. Positive reinforcement training is a great way to bond with your pup while teaching them new skills.
Another way to bond with your greyhound is through physical touches, such as petting and cuddling. This can help build trust and make your pup feel loved and secure.
Exercise
As retired greyhounds are bred for speed, they don’t require a lot of exercise to keep them happy and healthy. Aim for at least two 20 minute-long walks per day or a few shorter walks throughout the day. You can also take your furry friend for a run in an enclosed field you can hire or even a swim if they enjoy it.
Greyhounds are generally low-energy dogs, but they still need exercise to maintain their physical and mental health, don't forget to bring water for your pup to stay hydrated on the go.
Dental health
Greyhounds are known for having dental issues, so it's important to take care of their teeth. Brushing their teeth regularly with a dog toothbrush and toothpaste can prevent tartar build-up and gum disease. Additionally, providing dental chews or bones can help clean their teeth and prevent bad breath.
So, remember:
Pampering your retired greyhound is all about finding a balance between fun and practicality.
From choosing the right feeding utensils to providing engaging toys and regular exercise, there are plenty of ways to ensure your greyhound is living their best life.
Remember to always consult with your vet and prioritise your dog's unique needs when making decisions about its health and wellbeing.
With a little bit of effort and a lot of love, your retired/adopted greyhound can enjoy a happy and healthy life with their loving family.