Greyador Breed Guide

What is the history & origin of the Greyador?

There is no solid origin story for the Greyhound-Lab mix. Greyadors are hybrid dogs that are purposefully bred by mixing two purebred dogs - in this case, a Greyhound and Labrador.

To understand more about these mixed-breed dogs, we can consider the origins of the parent breeds.

Greyhounds

Greyhounds are ancient dogs found in Roman poems, Egyptian artworks, and even the Bible. The Greyhound found its way to Europe in the Dark Ages and was used for hunting due to its amazing speed.

Coursing - a dog sport where dogs chase after prey - and dog racing increased the popularity of Greyhounds in England. Greyhounds arrived in America when British and Spanish explorers sailed across the oceans.

Greyhounds were recognised by the American Kennel Club in 1885.

Labrador Retrievers

Labradors were originally named St. John's Waterdog. These dogs were popular with fishermen in the 1700s and helped collect any fish that fell from the nets. The name was changed to Labrador as these dogs were developed in the Labrador Sea, where they swam in cold water to man nets and collect fish.

Labradors were brought to England sometime in the 1820s and were popular for retrieving waterbirds during hunts. Labradors were almost extinct in the 1880s, but the second Earl of Malmesbury - a lover of the breed - worked with breeders to save it.

Labradors were brought to the United States in the 1920s when they were also registered by the American Kennel Club and are still a much-loved family pet.

Who are Greyador dogs best for?

Potential Greyador dog owners will require a property with a large, fenced backyard. Greyadors are active dogs and need plenty of exercise to get rid of their energy.

These dogs are great for families and will show signs of separation anxiety if they are left home alone. They are social animals and will get along with other dogs. Their hunting instinct makes them unsuitable for households with cats; however, with a lot of patience and proper socialisation, they can get along with cats and other pets.

Although Greyadors are good family dogs, they are very big and will have to be monitored around young children as they can accidentally knock them over.

Greyhound-Lab mix dogs will do best with active families where people are home during the day and they have a large yard to romp around in.

How much grooming does a Greyador need?

Greyadors are moderate shedders and will need frequent brushing since they shed throughout the year. Daily brushing will remove dead hair and also help spread moisturising oils.

These dogs are generally clean, but if they do get dirty, wash them with a good quality moisturising dog shampoo and conditioner.

Greyhound-Lab mixes require regular toothbrushing as they are prone to developing dental diseases. Their nails should also be trimmed once a month if it does not wear down naturally.

Check their ears regularly for wax, dirt, and infection, and clean them as required.

Do Greyador bark much?

Greyadors are vocal animals and bark more than other dog breeds. Since they suffer from separation anxiety when left alone for too long, they will bark to show their frustration and loneliness. They will also bark to alert their families of perceived threats when they are scared or out of boredom.

Do Greyador bite?

Greyadors have a low tendency to bite. They are not aggressive dogs and will only bite when provoked, in pain, or when their herding instinct kicks in.

Greyhound-Lab mix puppies can be a bit mouthy, especially when they are teething. Their nips are not intended to hurt. You can redirect your pup when it starts biting by offering it a chew toy and award good behaviour.

What is the temperament & personality of a Greyador?

The Greyhound-Lab mix temperament depends on which parent breed's traits dominate.

Greyhounds are sensitive, friendly, and not aggressive, while Labradors are loving, loyal, and eager to please. With these traits combined, your Greyador will be friendly, slightly reserved around strangers, and completely devoted to you.

These dogs have separation anxiety which they inherit from their Greyhound parent, and although they love spending time outside, they will not do well if you leave them alone outside for too long. They will bark, howl and show destructive behaviour.

Greyadors will show their affection and love by trying to stay close to their people. They enjoy snuggling, licking, and following their families around. They are good playmates for children who know how to treat dogs, as well as other dogs.

What is the weight & size of a Greyador?

Weight:

• Male: 25 - 36 kg

• Female: 22.6 - 36 kg

Height:

• 53 - 68.5 cm

How much training does a Greyador need?

Although your Greyhound-Lab mix puppy is a very intelligent dog, it has a stubborn streak and will require a lot of patience when it comes to training.

Greyhounds have a natural hunting instinct, and once something catches their attention, they will set off to chase it. You will have to start obedience training early and also work on recall to prevent this behaviour.

Greyadors do best with short, positive, and engaging training sessions.

What are some of the most common health issues for a Greyador?

Being a mixed breed, Greyadors are generally healthy dogs. They do have the risk of developing health problems from their purebred parents.

Here are some common genetic health issues that Greyadors may inherit:

• Gastric Torsion (bloat): occurs when the stomach or intestines twist due to a large intake of food or liquids. It can be fatal and will require immediate veterinary care.

• Hip dysplasia: occurs when the hip joint is malformed and can cause pain and lameness.

• Epilepsy: causes seizures which can result in injuries and neurological damage.

• Osteochondritis dissecans: occurs when the cartilage pulls away from the bone, causing pain.

• Osteosarcoma: a type of aggressive cancer in dogs.

• Ear infections: can be caused by dirt in the ear, yeast, bacteria, or mites.

• Periodontal disease: occurs when teeth are not kept clean and results in inflammation around the tooth and gums

• Obesity and weight gain: Greyadors love their food and will devour everything in their bowl. Obesity can result in joint pain and back injuries.

• Canine eye inflammation: can affect the vision of the dog and lead to blindness if left untreated.

What is the lifespan of a Greyador?

Greyadors have an average life span of 11 to 13 years.

How much should you feed a Greyador?

Greyadors have a tendency to become overweight, so free feeding is not an option with this breed. You will have to closely monitor your dog's diet and adapt it as required.

These dogs are big with a lot of energy and will require 3 to 4 cups of high-quality dry kibble per day, spread out over two or more mealtimes.

Always make sure that your dog has access to fresh water throughout the day.

What is the price of a Greyador in Australia?

You can expect to pay between $550 and $1,400 for your Greyador puppy. The price of the pup will depend on the parent's bloodlines, the breeder, and the age of the dog.