History of Greyhound in Timeline

The Greyhound is a breed of dog known for its speed and agility. Bred as a sighthound, they were historically used for coursing and hunting. Today, they are commonly associated with greyhound racing. While many Greyhounds participate in racing, some are also kept as show dogs or as pets.

1926: Greyhound racing introduced into England

In 1926, modern greyhound racing was introduced into England.

1927: Greyhound racing introduced into Northern Ireland, Scotland, and the Republic of Ireland

In 1927, modern greyhound racing was introduced into Northern Ireland, Scotland, and the Republic of Ireland.

1928: Greyhound wins Best in Show at Crufts

In 1928, Mr. H. Whitley's Greyhound, Primley Sceptre, won Best in Show at Crufts.

1956: Greyhound wins Best in Show at Crufts

In 1956, a Greyhound won Best in Show at Crufts.

1974: Archaeology rules out greyhound-type in Britain before Roman occupation

In 1974, systematic archaeozoology conducted in Britain ruled out the existence of a true greyhound-type dog prior to the Roman occupation.

2000: Further confirmation on greyhound absence in Britain before Roman occupation

Further confirmation in 2000 confirmed there was no greyhound-type dog in Britain prior to the Roman occupation.

2000: Greyhound origins traced through historical findings

Rock art in Tassili, dated at 5000-2000 BC, suggests the greyhound is one of the oldest dog breeds.

2005: Swedish study on Greyhound mortality

A 2005 Swedish study using insurance data found that 60% of Greyhounds died by the age of 10, a higher rate than the overall rate of 35% for dogs dying by the age of 10.

2008: University of Pennsylvania study on Greyhound aggression

In 2008, a University of Pennsylvania study revealed that Greyhounds are among the least aggressive dog breeds towards strangers, owners, and other dogs.

2024: UK study on Greyhound life expectancy

A 2024 study in the UK determined the life expectancy for Greyhounds to be 11.5 years, compared to an average of 12.7 years for purebreeds and 12 years for crossbreeds.