Why Dark Coloured Greyhounds Are the Least Adopted

By Dr Alicia Fuller

September 30, 2022 09:12

The genetics of colour inheritance in greyhounds tends towards dark colours. Dark coloured greyhounds are the most common, however, they are the least requested colour.

Fortunately, dark coloured greyhounds still make amazing pets, so let’s not judge the book by its cover.

Most Common Requested Colour of Greyhound

The most common request we receive is for full-coloured greyhounds (blue, blue fawn and the super rare - white).

Dark greyhounds and those with slightly unusual colours (such as brindle - tiger stripes) are typically less popular. This preference is not specific to the breed. As a whole, the public typically prefers lighter or rarer coloured dogs.

Many of the breeds that have traditional black colours (black, black-white, brown) are more requested when they have merle coats or unique markings.

So, while black greyhounds are the most common, they are also the least adopted, though there’s plenty we can do about it.

Behavioural Differences Between Different Colours

There's no known correlation between colour and temperament or behaviour in greyhounds.

Colour is purely a visual preference that adopters show for dogs and the animals that they would like in their lives.

Black as a colour also has an interesting place in society and culture. Some consider the black colour as the absence of colour. It can be lucky in some cultures and unlucky in others. Superstitions also exist around black cats and black dogs. This is another subtle reason why some greyhounds are passed on.

Consumer behaviour suggests that people don't particularly value the most common occurrence in anything. There’s an appeal for rarity, even for animals we’re looking to adopt into our home.

Behavioural Differences Between Different Genders

Generally, there are no substantial differences in behaviour between male and female greyhounds, despite common anecdotes.

Female greyhounds are used in racing and can run just as fast as their male counterparts.

Behaviour characteristics don’t tend to be unique to a particular sex. For example, the behaviour characteristic of boldness (investigating a new thing - such as a clam pool) is unique to each and every greyhound, not generalised because of sex.

Behaviour is more dictated by the genetics, experiences, and age of the greyhound rather than gender. That’s why at Greyhounds As Pets, we carefully match every greyhound with every potential adopter rather than solely going off attributes such as sex or colour.

Why Dark-Coloured Greyhounds Make Great Pets

We usually have a number of dark greyhounds that have been with us for a longer period of time, compared with more popular coloured greyhounds.

The benefits are that these dogs have received more training and preparation from our expert team to ready them for their forever homes. Additionally, we have gained more information about them and can provide detailed matching information to help set up fosterers for success.

Meet Your New Best Mate at GAP

If you're interested in a loving greyhound companion, we have profiles for a number of dark-coloured dogs on our website.

We encourage people to come and meet our greyhounds in-person (or via videoconferencing), whether you’re looking to actually adopt or foster
We’re happy to work with you to find an absolutely wonderful pet. No matter the coat colour, the heart is the same
We offer a 14-day foster experience
You will receive ongoing support from our behaviour team