The adoption journey explained

Getting ready for life with a greyhound

Ready to share your life with a greyhound? Or just starting your research? In just a few easy steps, you could be nose to nose with your new best friend.

Lots of things can feel daunting when you’re not sure where to start. But don’t worry, we’re here to help. We’ll take you through your journey to adopting a greyhound – one step at a time, and in your own time – from finding your perfect match, to taking them to their first forever home.

Here’s how it works:

First things first – find out more about life with a greyhound

Greyhounds are calm, affectionate dogs who love nothing more than cuddling up with their chosen families. Dubbed the ‘45mph couch potato’, these retired racers make the dream companion for any pet parent. Read our adoption stories to hear first-hand from families who’ve adopted retired greyhounds and never looked back, and our Why Greyhounds? page is also a reassuring place to start.

Next, reach out to your local rehoming centre

The best way to find your forever friend is to meet them in the fur. You can use our centre finder to find your nearest accredited greyhound rehoming centre and drop them a line, or simply drop in! They might be closer than you think, and there are no strings attached. No two dogs are the same and you’ll have the chance to meet a variety of characters, perhaps take them for a walk, enjoy some playtime or even some cuddles. It’s the best way to find out about different character traits, sizes, colours and ask lots of questions.

Meeting your future four-legged friend

How long this step takes is really up to you, and there’s no need to rush. Visit as many times, or as many rehoming centres, as you like. They’ll focus on finding your perfect match – for your home, your family, your lifestyle, and your personalities. It’s true that many owners say their dog chose them, and people often bond with a different dog than they originally had in mind. You’ll never forget the moment your greyhound wins your heart – whether it’s the way they rest their nose on your knee, or how their whole body wags when they see you. Just be prepared to fall head over heels.

Organise a home visit

People often worry about the size of their home, or the busyness of their family life, but greyhounds are adaptable and even apartment living can work for many – Once you and your greyhound have found each other, our rehoming centres will arrange a home visit to help you both have a smooth transition to family life. They’ll also support you with any questions or concerns, and will still be there for you over the coming weeks. It’s part of our commitment to responsible greyhound adoption and ensures your dog will be happy and healthy in their new home.

Help them settle in

Now you’ve found your forever friend, you might be wondering what happens next. Follow our handy Ready to Adopt guide to ensure you have everything you need to help your greyhound settle in to life in a family home, from the moment their paws cross the threshold.

Worth knowing

All greyhounds are microchipped and have been neutered and vaccinated before they are adopted. And to make life easier, centres often throw in a collar, lead and muzzle*. So when they join you at home, you can relax and enjoy those special moments with your favourite four-legged buddy.

*Just in case you’re wondering about the muzzle: pre-adoption greyhounds haven’t usually met a lot of other breeds off lead, so a comfortable muzzle is a good idea when you’re out and about until you’re confident they’re used to other dogs.

Got a question?

We can help! We’ll answer all your questions about rehoming a greyhound in our FAQs or get in touch, we love the chance to tell people all about these wonderful dogs.

Find your centre