Greyhounds quickly bond with their new owners. They don’t understand when you leave the home and they wonder if you will ever return. Since you will be devoting a lot of time to getting your dog accustomed to his new surroundings, routines and house-training rules, be sure to focus on the fact that he needs to realize you and other family members often leave and return home.

The day after adopting your greyhound set aside several times when you leave the home for just a few minutes. Settle the dog into his special spot with some toys and chews to keep him occupied. You don’t want him to feel punished when you are gone so it’s important this spot is where you normally spend lots of time. Say goodbye, rustle the car keys, put on your jacket and walk out the door. A few minutes later, walk back in. Act relaxed, put away the cap and jacket then tell your dog how good he is. Take him outside to relieve himself, thus establishing a routine that shows your return signals it is time to go outside and do his business.

Repeat this procedure, staying away longer – up to an hour or two. Make all the comings and goings routine and uneventful.  Dogs love routine! By the time a week rolls around, your greyhound will understand that when you leave, you will come back.

Note:  some dogs are frightened by closed blinds and drapes. We recommended keeping them open while you conduct the training. This action also keeps the window coverings out of harm’s away in the rare instance your dog becomes frantic waiting for your return. Until your dog learns about the reflective property of glass, you can tape a piece of paper at greyhound-level on sliding glass doors.