Protein is deliberately at a slightly lower level as required by pet greyhounds and lurchers. Too much protein may cause anxiety and hyperactivity Any dog being re-homed is likely to be a little anxious and withdrawn, so let them take things at their own pace. Once they feel safe and settled in, their true personality will start to shine through. In the meantime, your Greyhound or Lurcher will be very glad for a quiet bed in an undisturbed area of the house to call their own.

A: Independent and non-territorial, Greyhounds are unlikely to bark at the door and may not even be bothered to get up to greet your visitors. And, while they may be large dogs, they’re agile and graceful and won’t get under your feet – they’re often quite happy to just be in the same room with you, most probably snoozing on the sofa. They’re also gentle and polite when meeting new people, which makes them easy to take on outings. Both Greyhounds and Lurchers have scavenging natures. This, coupled with their long, long legs, means they can easily reach food left on kitchen tops or tables and will seize any opportunity to chow down on things that aren’t good for them. It’s also worth investing in a dog-proof bin. Greyhounds and Lurchers are extremely athletic, and some can clear a six-foot fence if the mood takes them, so a secure, dog-proof garden to play in is essential. A: Greyhounds and Lurchers are sighthounds with a highly developed prey drive. This means it’s their instinct to chase small animals, so care must be taken around cats, smaller dogs and other animals that may stir up their hard-wired hunting behaviours.

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CARE MORE Find out more about caring for your dog from Burgess, the pet experts. Training, nutrition, grooming and general care. It’s all here >> ARE YOU READY FOR A DOG? If you’re thinking of adding four paws, an inquisitive nose and a waggy tail to your life, make sure you really know what you’re taking on. Things to consider include cost, time, exercise and training – and the fact that your life will never be quite the same again... BECOME A DOG COMMUNICATION EXPERT It’s not difficult to tell if your dog is really happy – that waggy tail and soppy smile is such a giveaway. However, there are lots of other, more subtle signs that reveal how your four-legged pal is feeling and what they’re trying to tell you.

Want to stay up to date with the latest news, trends and pet care advice? Head over to our Pet Talk blog >> Burgess Pet Care launched its Greyhound & Lurcher Takeover campaign in 2019 to raise awareness of rescue dogs needing homes and to donate thousands of pounds worth of Burgess Supadog Greyhound & Lurcher food to rescue centres across the UK. Burgess also donates 20p from every sale in the form of free food to help care for these dogs. At Burgess, all our dog food is made using premium ingredients to ensure excellent quality and superior taste to help keep your dog happy and healthy – from puppy, to adult and senior. You may also need to invest in a muzzle – these can be really helpful for taking fearful dogs to the vet or out in public. Blue Cross recommends the Baskerville muzzle – its open basket weave allows the dog to breathe freely – and is available from vets and good pet shops. Depending on what mix your Lurcher is made up of will dictate how much exercise they’ll require each day. Unsurprisingly, their mixed-breed genes (a hint of Collie, a touch of Terrier) can mean that they have a tendency to become easily bored, which can lead to destructive behaviour. Hide and seek and fetch games are a good way to keep Lurchers mentally stimulated, along with a selection of chew toys as a preferred alternative to things they shouldn’t be chomping on.For this reason we've calculated the approximate 'as fed' percentages for the main ingredient categories in the finished product. YOU'RE MY BEST FRIEND Which would you choose – a night out with your friends or night in on the sofa with your dog? If it’s the latter, then you’re not alone. More than half of pet owners admit they enjoy the company of their animals more than that of their human friends, according to a poll.

Your new four-legged friend has a lot to learn but dogs are incredibly adaptable. With gentle guidance they will thrive – but stern words or impatience can shatter the confidence of these sensitive souls. Take their training slowly so that they don’t have to take too much on board in one go. If you’re relaxed and affectionate your Greyhound or Lurcher will be too. In fact, they’re renowned for being extremely affectionate – there’s even a thing called the ‘Greyhound full body lean’, which is just one of the ways these long-legged canines show that they love you. Greyhounds and Lurchers are at their happiest when they are warm, cosy and in their guardian’s company. From puppy to adolescent, through to adult and senior, as your dog goes through different stages, their exercise and nutrition needs change. Find out how to help them stay happy and healthy every day of their lives >> TAKING ON A RESCUE DOG Many dogs find themselves in rescue centres through no fault of their own and, with time, lots of patience and plenty of kindness, will make a happy addition to your family. Our guide can help...A: Because they’re shorthaired and slender, Greyhounds need their very own wardrobe of coats to match the seasons – from waterproof raincoats to light spring and autumn wear and extra cosy winter fleeces. As a rule of thumb, If the weather is chilly enough for you to need a coat, so do they.