Today, Greyhounds are known for being the fastest dogs around but are among the oldest domesticated breeds. Historians can trace the Greyhound (or Greyhound ancestors) back 4,000 years to the times of Ancient Greece, Egypt, and Persia!
Since then, Greyhounds have played various roles throughout history. They served as companions to the gods, held a place in royal courts, worked as hunting dogs, and were used for racing and entertainment purposes.
There are several different types of Greyhounds and other dogs that are very similar. Greyhounds are considered sighthounds and share common characteristics such as a lean build and an elongated muzzle. Below, we’ll examine 11 dogs that look like Greyhounds.
The 11 Dogs That Look Like Greyhounds
1. Spanish Greyhounds
Also known as the Spanish Galgo, the Spanish Greyhound is an ancient breed once bred exclusively for Spanish nobility. However, they’ve lost their noble status and are now utilized as hunting dogs throughout Spain.
Unfortunately, these pups are often treated horribly and discarded once they’ve “outlived their usefulness.” Thankfully, an international effort has emerged to help rescue them and put them in the arms of loving homes.
2. Sloughi Dog
The Sloughi, also known as the Arabian Greyhound, is another variant of the traditional Greyhound. This lean sighthound was once used in a popular hunting game throughout North African deserts. In fact, the Sloughis were believed to have crossed the Alps with the great general Hannibal, who brought them to Europe. They are known to be generally aloof with strangers but loving and loyal to their families.
3. Borzoi (Long haired greyhound)
Often described as long-haired Greyhounds, Borzois are large Russian sighthounds that were used to course wolves. Although they have a fearsome working background, these long-haired pups are affectionate and loyal. They’re known for their noble and respectful demeanor toward their owners.
4. Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound is one of the most recognizable show breeds due to their elegant sighthound body and long luxurious coat. They look like long-haired Greyhounds! Afghan Hounds trace their roots back thousands of years to Afghanistan where they were originally called Tazis. They are one of the more playful breeds of the sighthounds and are wonderful companions for children.
5. Saluki Dog
The Saluki — AKA the Gazelle Hound or Persian Greyhound — is one of the oldest dog breeds ever. Their origins can be traced back to the beginning of human civilization in the Fertile Crescent region of the Middle East.
There are theories that the name Saluki is derived from ancient Sumerian, meaning “plunge-earth,” because they were actually thrown toward prey by camel-mounted hunters.
6. Whippet
These Greyhound descendants are among the most friendly of all sighthounds. While most sighthounds are generally aloof to strangers, the Whippet is very social and kind to just about anyone. They’re typically quiet dogs and aren’t known for their abilities as great watchdogs. However, Whippets make excellent family dogs and get along with other dogs or cats.
- Related Read: Whippet vs Greyhound: What Are The Differences?
7. Scottish Deerhound
Commonly referred to as Deerhounds, Scottish Deerhounds are one of the larger sighthounds, with males weighing up to 110 pounds. They’re also among the tallest breeds, and fully-grown Deerhounds can reach 28 inches at the shoulder.
It’s easy to see why they’re known as the “Royal Dogs of Scotland.” However, they aren’t the most popular breed due to their high energy and need for wide-open spaces.
8. Ibizan Hound
Ibizan Hounds can be traced back to 3400 B.C. when Phoenician traders first brought Egyptian hounds to the island of Ibiza. One of the first features you’ll notice is their wide, upright ears. Although initially used as rabbit-hunting dogs, Ibizan Hounds have evolved to become remarkable family dogs.
9. Pharaoh Hound
The Pharaoh Hound originated in ancient Egypt, where they were depicted in hieroglyphics as companions to the Pharaohs and gods. In fact, the jackal god Anubis bears such a close resemblance that some scholars question whether the Pharaoh Hound was the basis instead of the jackal. They’ve since outgrown their otherworldly roots and have become great family dogs and the official breed of Malta.
10. Basenji Dog
Basenjis are among the most compact of the sighthounds, maintaining a short and dense stature compared to others. They are also very unique in that they don’t bark. Well, not in the traditional sense, anyway.
They communicate through a sound described as something between a yodel and a bloodcurdling scream. They’re independent dogs that are great for apartment living and can be left alone for extended periods.
11. Azawakh Dog
The Azawakh is closely related to the Sloughi above, but that doesn’t mean they’re exactly alike. Both breeds hail from Northern Africa and were used as hunting dogs. Out of the two, the Azawakh is more headstrong and regal.
While loyal to their masters, they have many more reservations about strangers and are generally less affectionate. They aren’t ideal for families with small children since they can easily take over as the dominant personality.
Summary
Owning a Greyhound or any other of these sighthounds or dogs like Greyhounds is rewarding. They’re all highly dedicated and loving to their families. And despite their high-energy outbursts, they are some of the biggest couch potatoes you’ll find.
If you’re serious about owning a Greyhound, we highly recommend you check out adoption agencies for retired Greyhound racers. They deserve a loving home where they can relax and live out their lives pampered and spoiled by you.
See also:
- 22 Whippet Mixed Breeds You Need to Know About!
- Male vs Female Chihuahua: What’s The Difference (With Pictures)
Featured Image Credit: AkikoCampbell, Pixabay
The 11 Dogs That Look Like Greyhounds
