50-80 lbs
21-27"
Unknown
The Greyador is a hybrid breed where the graceful Greyhound is crossed with the athletic Labrador Retriever. Tall and slender, your Greyador may have the outstanding speed of his Greyhound parent, who has the ability to run 40 miles per hour. Lovable and strong, the Labrador Retriever will add power to the mix. Known to be smart and independent, the Greyador is a sensitive dog who will be attuned to the moods of his humans.
The Greyhound parent is an ancient breed that appeared in Egyptian art, the Bible and in Roman poetry. During the Dark Ages, the Greyhound came to Europe and has always been extremely fast as well as an amazing hunter. Coursing, a sport that involves running after prey, and racing led to the Greyhound growing in popularity in England. The breed eventually made its way to the Americas when it was brought by both British colonists and Spanish explorers. In 1885 the dogs were recognized by the American Kennel Club. The Labrador was known as the St. John’s Water Dog after the capital of Newfoundland. In the 1700’s this athletic breed was helpful to fishermen, assisting them to man their nets and collecting any fish that fell out of them. The breed’s name was later changed to the Labrador after the Labrador Sea, which was where it was developed, swimming the cold waters. Records indicate that the Labrador was brought to England in the 1820’s, where the second Earl of Malmesbury was an early owner of the breed. The dogs became popular as a result of their skill at retrieving waterfowl during hunting. While the breed almost became extinct in the 1880’s, the Malmesbury family and other English breeders worked to save it. Unfortunately, the breed disappeared in Newfoundland as a result of strict government restrictions and tax laws. In the 1920’s the Labradors were brought to the United States where the breed established a presence.
Often seen with the Greyhound face, the Greyador will have long ears that can reach to the jawline. The eyes will be dark and have an inquisitive look that shows his working background. A long neck is typical and the body, though slender, will have muscle and form. His teeth will be well defined and his jaw strong. The tail may be narrow or wide but will be most often carried high and can become straight when he is excited. The coat will vary depending on the genetic dominance of the parent. It will be short, although the density can vary from dog to dog. It is not likely that the water resistant characteristic will prevail.
Greyadors are above average shedders; brushing on a daily basis will help keep this under control. Prone to becoming overweight, you will want to keep a close eye on his diet to be sure you are not overfeeding your dog. Having his teeth brushed regularly is particularly important for this hybrid, as he can have poor dental health. His nails should be trimmed once or twice a month. A good fence is necessary for a Greyador who spends time outdoors as he will likely chase small animals he encounters. He will want your company when outside as he does not like to be left on his own.
The Greyador will inherit his temperament from his parents. The Greyhound parent is typically friendly and not aggressive. They are often sensitive to any tension occurring in the home. Having been bred to hunt, the Greyhound may be apt to chase smalls animals that he encounters making caution necessary when introducing your Greyador to little creatures. He may be stubborn during training, though due to their sensitive nature, food rewards are recommended rather than harsh training. Your Greyador will do well with children and is tolerant of their antics, but will be able to walk away calmly should the play not suit him. Your Greyador will not enjoy spending long periods of time outdoors in a yard on his own; upon becoming bored and lonely he can get into trouble.
About 60 minutes of activity per day is sufficient for the Greyador’s physical and mental health. A dog who likes to be busy, he will enjoy taking walks and playing games with his humans. As he may take off on a chase, it is important that he be walked on a leash or play in a secure, fenced-in area. Your Greyador will most likely love swimming in a lake or river and will enjoy chasing a stick or playing fetch. The Greyador may do well as a service or therapy dog.
Written by Kathleen Egger
Published: 11/15/2017, edited: 02/24/2021
More articles by Kathleen Egger
I got a dog from the shelter a couple of months ago. He is 35 pounds and about 20 inches tall. He is 5 months 2 weeks old. Can you predict how big he will be.
