VetPet Academy

rescue dog in a vest on the bow of the ship in Denmark

Dog Life Jackets : Keeping Your Dog Water Safe

What About Dog Life Jackets?

Now for one of the most important pieces of canine safety equipment for water-loving dogs:

the dog life jacket.

Even a confident swimmer can become tired, encounter currents or struggle in unfamiliar water.

A properly fitted dog life jacket can provide additional buoyancy and visibility, giving you another layer of safety during swimming, boating and other water activities.

Important: Dog life jackets should never replace supervision, appropriate environmental management or veterinary advice. If your dog shows signs of being excessively cold (hypothermia), distress, overheating (hyperthermia), fatigue or difficulty breathing, remove the gear and seek appropriate help.

If you want to know more VetPet Academy’s Canine Emergency First Aid Course provides training for temperature extremes – hypothermia or hyperthermia – in dogs.

Why Should Dogs Wear Life Jackets?

According to Boaterexam whether you are cruising, fishing, or relaxing, boating with a dog it’s important to remember to protect them on the boat, including having the correct safety equipment for them.

A life jacket can be particularly valuable for:

Boating
Kayaking and paddleboarding
Open-water swimming
Strong currents
Unfamiliar water
Puppies learning to swim
Older dogs with reduced stamina
Dogs that fatigue quickly
Dogs with body shapes that make swimming more difficult
Dogs undergoing hydro/water therapy

Even strong swimmers aren’t immune to exhaustion or changing water conditions.

Zwei Hunde mit Schwimmwesten machen Bootstour

Dogs on boats or canoes – whether it’s on the river or open ocean -should wear life jackets.

Look for these life-jacket features

Choose the best life jacket available for your dog. The majority of cheaper options available only wrap foam around the top of your dog. Quality proven life jackets according to Surf Dog Australia should support the chest and shoulders, keep your dog’s head and front end higher in the water, and allows you to lift them safely back onto your board, canoe or boat.

A good dog life jacket may include:

Adjustable straps
Secure flotation panels
Bright, highly visible colours
Reflective details
A sturdy rescue handle
Appropriate leash/D-ring attachment
Durable, water-resistant materials

A sturdy, strong rescue handle can be particularly useful if you need to help lift your dog from the water.

Water rescue dogs wear life jackets during training and in work. They provide extra buoyancy against sudden fatigue, offer a secure grab handle for people being rescued, allow handlers to lift or steer them, and ensures high visibility in choppy, unpredictable open water.

Labrador dog rescue and recovery exercise at sea. Canine Unit of Nautical Rescue Dog School

Rescue dog life jackets helps prevent exhaustion during long, strenuous swims or heavy towing.

A Life Jacket Is Not a Substitute for Supervision

This is worth repeating.

A life jacket does not make a dog drown-proof.

Check the jacket before every outing for:

Tears
Damaged straps
Broken buckles
Loose stitching
Deteriorated flotation material
Excessive wear

A damaged or poorly fitted life jacket can create additional risks.

And always consider the water itself. Currents, waves, temperature, access points and water quality can all affect safety.

Coat or Life Jacket? Don’t Confuse the Two

A winter coat is designed primarily for weather protection and warmth.

A raincoat is designed primarily for rain and wet-weather protection.

A life jacket is designed to provide buoyancy and visibility in water.

They are not interchangeable.

If your dog is going boating, swimming or participating in water sports, choose equipment specifically designed for flotation.

Dog trainer at the swimming pool, teaching the dog to swim.

Canine water therapy may also include a life jacket. Providing patient buoyancy and therapist support.

How to Teach Your Dog to Accept a Life Jacket

The best time to introduce new equipment is before you actually need it.

Try this simple progression:

1. Investigate

Place the life jacket on the floor.

Allow your dog to sniff it.

Reward calm interest.

2. Touch

Briefly touch the equipment to your dog’s body.

Reward relaxed behaviour.

3. Wear

Put it on for a very short period.

Reward your dog.

Remove it.

4. Increase duration

Gradually extend the wearing time while your dog remains relaxed.

5. Add movement

Walk around the house or yard.

Reward calm movement.

6. Introduce distractions

Once your dog is comfortable, practice wearing the equipment during normal activities.

A great way to trial a life jacket is putting it on for a short swim in your backyard pool (if you have one).

This gradual approach is consistent with positive-reinforcement recommendations for introducing dog life jackets.

Dog, Boxer Puppy Family Fun Afloat: Adorable Boxer Puppy Cruise in Style, Sporting Orange Lifejackets on a Relaxing Kayak Ride. Photography

Start your dog slowly so he can build trust and acceptance of a life jacket.

Treating a life jacket as optional safety equipment on challenging water

Even capable swimmers can tire or encounter conditions they cannot manage.

For boating and open-water activities, a properly fitted life jacket is a sensible additional safety layer.

Your Dog’s Life Jacket Fitting Checklist

Before heading to the water, ask:

Does the life jacket fit securely?
Can my dog breathe normally?
Can they walk and move freely?
Can they sit, lie down and toilet comfortably?
Are there any rubbing points?
Is the equipment appropriate for today’s weather or activity?
Is my dog comfortable wearing it?
Is the equipment clean and in good condition?
Have I checked the life jacket for damage?
Am I able to supervise my dog?

If you can’t confidently answer these questions, stop and reassess before continuing.

For more information on fitting dog jackets check our blog post on ‘How to Get the Fit Right’.

Side view close-up portrait of a chihuahua resting on the boat while kayaking trip

Dog life jackets come in all sizes. Make sure the one you choose fits correctly.

Make Sure Your Dogs Life Jacket is SAFE!

When it comes to water, the AKC advises not to rely on your dog’s swimming ability alone – no matter what the breed.

A properly fitted life jacket can provide valuable buoyancy and visibility, while sensible supervision remains essential.

Want to Build Your Dog-Care Skills With More Confidence?

Knowing how to fit equipment is just one part of responsible dog care.

At VetPet Academy, you can explore practical, expert-led education covering canine care, behaviour, emergency pet first aid and other skills designed to help owners and pet professionals make better-informed decisions.

Explore VetPet Academy courses and resources such as:

Dog First Aid: What Every Dog Owner Should Know
Understanding Canine Body Language
Canine Behaviour and Stress Signals
Pet Emergency Preparedness
Canine Massage and Wellness
Dog Exercise and Injury Prevention
Dog Life Jackets: Do dogs need life jackets?

Ready to become more confident in caring for your dog? Explore VetPet Academy and start building practical canine-care knowledge today.

Dog Coats : How to Get the Fit Right and Keep Your Dog Comfortable

A dog coat can look adorable, but the wrong fit can turn useful protection into an uncomfortable—and potentially unsafe—piece of equipment. Whether your dog needs warmth, rain protection or extra support in the water, choosing and fitting the right gear matters.

From tiny dogs shivering on a cold wet day to active dogs heading out for a winter walk, dog coats can have a genuine purpose. But not every dog needs a coat, and no dog should be forced to wear one simply because it looks good.

This guide explains how to fit a dog coat, the different types of dog coats, their pros and cons, and how to choose and fit a dog coat.

Important: Clothing should never replace supervision, appropriate environmental management or veterinary advice. If your dog shows signs of being excessively cold (hypothermia), distress, overheating (hyperthermia), fatigue or difficulty breathing, remove the gear and seek appropriate help.

If you want to know more VetPet Academy’s Canine Emergency First Aid Course provides training for temperature extremes – hypothermia or hyperthermia – in dogs.

Do Dogs Really Need Coats?

The answer is: sometimes.

Dogs vary enormously in their ability to cope with cold and wet weather. Small, fine-coated, hairless, elderly or particularly cold-sensitive dogs may benefit from additional protection. Dogs with thick insulating coats may need much less assistance.

A dog coat can also provide practical protection from rain, mud and wind.

However, a coat isn’t automatically beneficial simply because the temperature has dropped. A dog that is comfortable without one may not need additional clothing.

Veterinary and animal-welfare guidance also stresses the importance of avoiding overheating (hyperthermia), restrictive clothing and poor-fitting garments.

Dogs that may benefit from a coat

Consider your individual dog’s:

Breed and coat type
Body size and body condition
Age
Health and mobility
Activity level
Weather conditions
Individual tolerance of cold
Length and intensity of the outing

If you’re uncertain whether your dog needs extra warmth, ask your veterinarian for advice specific to your dog’s health and circumstances.

Some dogs may feel the effects of weather extremes more than others.

The Different Types of Dog Coats and Why They’re Worn

Not all dog coats serve the same purpose. Choosing the right type is just as important as choosing the right size.

1. Lightweight Dog Jackets

A lightweight jacket provides a little extra warmth without the bulk of a heavy winter coat.

Best for: Cool weather, short walks and dogs that become chilly easily.

Pros:

Lightweight
Easy to put on and remove
Less bulky than insulated coats
Suitable for mild conditions

Cons:

May provide insufficient protection in very cold weather
Can become uncomfortable if your dog overheats
Not necessarily waterproof

2. Insulated or Winter Dog Coats

These coats are designed to provide greater warmth and are particularly useful for dogs that struggle with cold conditions.

Best for: Cold weather and dogs with limited natural insulation.

Pros:

Greater warmth
Useful for cold-sensitive dogs
Can make outdoor activities more comfortable

Cons:

Can cause overheating if used unnecessarily
Bulk can restrict movement if poorly designed or fitted
May require more cleaning and maintenance

A dog should still be able to walk, run, play, sit and toilet normally while wearing a coat.

3. Dog Raincoats

Raincoats are designed primarily to protect the dog’s coat and body from rain and wet conditions.

They can be particularly useful for dogs that dislike getting wet or for owners who want to reduce the amount of drying and grooming required after a rainy walk.

Pros:

Helps keep the coat dry
Can reduce mud and wetness
May make rainy walks more comfortable
Useful in wet climates

Cons:

Doesn’t necessarily provide warmth
Some dogs dislike the sensation or sound of waterproof fabric
Can trap heat if worn unnecessarily

4. Snowsuits and Full-Body Dog Coats

These provide more extensive coverage, sometimes including the legs.

Best for: Very cold environments and dogs that require more comprehensive protection.

Pros:

Greater coverage
More protection from cold and wet conditions
Useful for some lean or hairless dogs

Cons:

More restrictive than a simple coat
More difficult to put on
Some dogs need considerable training to accept them

5. Cooling Vests

Cooling garments are designed for warm-weather management rather than cold protection.

They’re sometimes used during outdoor activities, but they shouldn’t be treated as a substitute for shade, water, rest and sensible exercise planning.

Key point: Heat management is individual. If your dog is showing signs of heat stress, don’t rely on clothing to solve the problem—stop activity and seek veterinary advice.

The Pros and Cons of Dog Coats at a Glance

Benefits

Adds warmth when genuinely needed
Helps protect against rain
Can reduce mud and wetness
May improve comfort in cold weather
Can provide extra protection for some dogs
Can improve visibility with reflective details

Potential drawbacks

Can cause overheating

Some dogs find coats stressful

Poor fit can restrict movement

Loose coats can snag or become hazardous

Requires regular cleaning

Not suitable for every dog

The golden rule is simple:

A dog coat should improve your dog’s comfort and safety—not compromise it.

Use the correct coat type for the right environment.

How to Fit a Dog Coat Correctly

Getting the right fit is one of the most important parts of choosing dog clothing.

Before buying, check the manufacturer’s measurement instructions. Common measurements include back length and chest girth, although sizing systems differ between brands.

Step 1: Measure your dog

Use a soft measuring tape.

Measure according to the manufacturer’s instructions, paying particular attention to:

Chest girth
Neck circumference
Back length
Weight, if required by the manufacturer

Don’t assume that your dog’s usual clothing size will be the same across brands.

Check your dogs measurements – even dogs of the same breed can be different sizes.

Step 2: Put the coat on calmly

Don’t rush.

If your dog is worried about the coat, introduce it gradually. Let them sniff it, reward calm investigation, then progress to briefly placing it against their body.

Positive reinforcement can help dogs build a more comfortable association with clothing.

Step 3: Check the neck

The coat should sit securely without pressing tightly against the neck.

You should never need to force the garment into position.

Step 4: Check the chest and abdomen

The coat should be secure without restricting normal breathing or movement.

A coat that is too tight can rub or restrict movement. One that is too loose may shift, catch on objects or become a tripping or entanglement hazard.

Step 5: Watch your dog’s movement

This is your best real-world test.

Ask yourself:

Can my dog walk normally?
Can they sit and lie down?
Can they turn their head?
Can they toilet comfortably?
Can they move their legs freely?

If the answer is no, reassess the fit.

Step 6: Watch your dog’s behaviour

Don’t assume a dog is comfortable simply because they aren’t actively fighting the coat.

Look for changes such as:

Freezing or refusing to move
Excessive scratching
Trying repeatedly to remove the coat
Hunched or unusual posture
Panting when the environment isn’t hot
Avoidance or obvious distress

If your dog is uncomfortable, remove the coat and take a step back in the introduction process.

The Two-Finger Fit Check

For adjustable clothing and straps, a useful general check is whether you can comfortably slide approximately two fingers underneath the strap without excessive pressure while checking that the garment isn’t so loose that it shifts excessively.

Most reputable dog coat manufacturers such as Weatherbeeta provide online measurement guides that may also relate to size and breed.

Remember that this isn’t a universal sizing rule for every garment. Always follow the manufacturer’s fitting instructions.

Reputable companies like Weatherbeeta provide size guides.

Coat Safety: What Owners Often Forget

A good fit is only part of the equation.

Don’t leave your dog unattended in clothing

Dogs can become caught or tangled in loose garments.

Supervise your dog while they’re wearing unfamiliar clothing, particularly when they’re playing, interacting with other animals or in an environment containing obstacles.

Don’t let a coat become a substitute for monitoring temperature

A coat can make a cold-sensitive dog more comfortable, but it can also contribute to overheating.

Check your dog regularly rather than relying solely on the weather forecast.

Keep coats clean and dry

Damp, dirty clothing can become unpleasant against the skin.

Follow the manufacturer’s washing instructions and make sure the coat is properly dried before storing or wearing it again.

Don’t force the issue

If your dog strongly dislikes wearing clothing, forcing them into it can create unnecessary stress.

Instead, use gradual exposure and positive reinforcement.

Your Dog Gear Fitting Checklist

Before heading outside, ask:

Does the coat fit securely?
Can my dog breathe normally?
Can they walk and move freely?
Can they sit, lie down and toilet comfortably?
Are there any rubbing points?
Is the equipment appropriate for today’s weather or activity?
Is my dog comfortable wearing it?
Is the equipment clean and in good condition?
Am I supervising my dog?

If you can’t confidently answer these questions, stop and reassess before continuing.

A badly fitted coat can be uncomfortable for the dog and defeat the purpose for using one.

Final Takeaway: Fit First, Fashion Second

Dog coats can be genuinely useful pieces of canine equipment—but only when they’re appropriate, correctly fitted and accepted by the dog.

The perfect dog coat isn’t necessarily the thickest, most expensive or most fashionable option.

It’s the one that suits your dog’s individual needs, fits correctly and allows them to behave naturally and comfortably.

Not all dog breeds need coats – but all dogs in coats need sensible supervision!

Want to Build Your Dog-Care Skills With More Confidence?

Knowing how to fit equipment is just one part of responsible dog care.

Explore VetPet Academy courses and resources such as:

Dog First Aid: What Every Dog Owner Should Know
Understanding Canine Body Language
Canine Behaviour and Stress Signals
Pet Emergency Preparedness
Canine Massage and Wellness
Dog Exercise and Injury Prevention
Dog Life Jackets: Do dogs need life jackets?

Ready to become more confident in caring for your dog? Explore VetPet Academy and start building practical canine-care knowledge today.

Greyhound Dogs as Pets: The Surprising Truth About Life With a Greyhound

They can run at astonishing speed—but at home, many Greyhounds would rather be wrapped in a blanket on the sofa.

That contrast is one of the biggest surprises for people considering a Greyhound as a pet.

Elegant, affectionate and often wonderfully calm indoors, Greyhounds can make exceptional companions. And for families considering a rescue Greyhound, adoption can also give a retired racing dog a safe, comfortable second chapter.

But Greyhounds aren’t the right dog for every household.

Their speed, prey drive, sensitive nature and sometimes limited experience of everyday home life mean that new owners need to understand what makes this breed different.

So, are Greyhounds good pets?

Absolutely—but the best Greyhound owners know what to expect before bringing one home.

Greyhound breed at a glance

The Greyhound is a sighthound: a breed developed to spot and chase moving prey using exceptional vision and speed.

They are tall, athletic dogs with a short, easy-care coat and a distinctive slender build. Despite their racing reputation, Greyhounds can be surprisingly relaxed at home. The American and Australian Kennel Clubs describe them as mild and sensitive dogs that can happily spend considerable time lounging with their families.

Quick Greyhound facts

Breed: Greyhound
Type: Sighthound
Temperament: Often gentle, sensitive, affectionate and independent
Exercise: Regular daily exercise plus opportunities for safe running and enrichment
Grooming: Relatively low maintenance
Training: Best with short, positive, reward-based sessions
Prey drive: Can be strong, particularly around small animals
Rescue potential: Many retired racing Greyhounds are available through adoption programs
Best home: One that provides patience, secure outdoor areas, comfortable bedding and thoughtful training

For Australian owners, the RSPCA’s guide to owning a Greyhound is an excellent starting point.

Are Greyhounds good pets?

Greyhounds are happy contented dogs who easily adapt from racing to being a homebody.

As Greyhound racing is slowly being banned in many countries those dogs on the racing circuit will need loving homes to go to.

Unfortunately, most people don’t realise that Greyhounds can be fantastic pets.

One of their most appealing characteristics is the difference between their athletic ability and their typical home lifestyle.

A Greyhound can sprint incredibly quickly, yet many are content to spend much of the day resting.

Many people are surprised that Greyhounds generally don’t need enormous amounts of space to exercise and may be happy with around an hour of combined daily walking and play – although individual needs vary between dogs.

This makes the breed surprisingly adaptable.

However, “low exercise” shouldn’t be confused with “no exercise”.

Your Greyhound still needs regular movement, enrichment, social interaction and opportunities to behave like a dog.

Rescue Greyhounds: what should new owners expect?

Adopting a rescue Greyhound can be very different from buying a puppy.

You may be welcoming an adult dog that has already developed strong habits and preferences.

That’s not necessarily a disadvantage.

In fact, one of the benefits of adopting through an established organisation is that the dog’s temperament, behaviour and compatibility can often be assessed before adoption.

For example, Greyhounds As Pets programs assess dogs and work to match them with suitable homes. Their process can include veterinary checks, behavioural assessment and foster experience.

Some top greyhound rescue contacts include Greyhound Trust (UK), Friends of the Hounds (Australia), FLIGHTS (Canada), Greyhounds as Pets NZ (New Zealand), and Hounds Abound (America). These organizations coordinate adoptions, foster networks, and rehabilitation for retired and rescued racing hounds.

Give your new Greyhound a decompression period

One of the best things you can do is slow down.

Don’t try to introduce your Greyhound to everyone and everything during the first few days. Instead:

Create a quiet, comfortable resting area.
Keep the first few days predictable.
Introduce new experiences gradually.
Reward calm behaviour.
Keep walks simple and low-pressure.
Avoid overwhelming visitors.
Supervise interactions with children and other animals.
Let your Greyhound retreat when they need space.

Think of the first few weeks as an opportunity to build trust rather than a race to teach every command.

Greyhound training: what works best?

Greyhounds are intelligent, but they can also be independent. That means traditional “because I said so” training isn’t the answer. Instead, use short, positive training sessions.

Reward the behaviour you want. Make learning worthwhile and stop on a positive note while your dog is still engaged.

Useful early behaviours for a dog off the track include:

- Responding to their name
- Walking calmly on lead
- Coming when called
- Going to a designated bed
- Waiting at doors
- Leaving objects alone
- Calmly greeting people
- Settling in different environments
- Comfortable handling for grooming and veterinary care

The RSPCA specifically recommends reward-based training for Greyhounds and notes that a stationary “stand” can sometimes be more comfortable and practical to teach than a traditional sit.

For more practical dog-care education, explore the VetPet Academy resources and online courses, which cover canine care, behaviour, emergency first aid and other practical skills for dog owners.

How much exercise does a Greyhound need?

Greyhound on beach with ball vetpet academy

Mental enrichment is very important for Greyhounds

Here’s where the Greyhound’s reputation can be misleading.

They were bred for speed—not necessarily for endless endurance.

Many Greyhounds are perfectly happy with daily walks, play and enrichment followed by a serious nap.

The RSPCA suggests around an hour of combined daily exercise and play as a general guide, while emphasising that individual dogs vary.

A good routine might include:

Morning: relaxed walk and sniffing opportunities.

Midday: toilet break, enrichment toy or short training session.

Afternoon: rest.

Evening: another walk, gentle play and a few minutes of training.

The goal isn’t to exhaust your dog.

It’s to meet their physical and mental needs.

Don’t forget mental enrichment

Physical exercise is only part of a Greyhound’s wellbeing.

Try:

- Food puzzles
- Snuffle activities
- Scatter feeding
- Scent games
- Trick training
- Short obedience sessions
- Safe chew toys
- Interactive toys
- Calm social experiences

Rotate enrichment activities so they remain interesting.

And remember that treats used during training count towards your dog’s overall daily food intake.

Greyhound health and veterinary care

greyhound gallop suspension vetpet academy

Past racing injuries may lead to ongoing or age related medical issues.

Like every breed, Greyhounds have health considerations worth discussing with your veterinarian.

Their athletic build and fine skin can make certain injuries more noticeable, while dental health deserves particular attention.

The American Kennel Club’s current Greyhound health recommendations include cardiac and ophthalmologist evaluations and DNA testing for Greyhound polyneuropathy when relevant to breeding health programs.

For an individual pet, your veterinarian can help establish an appropriate preventive-care plan based on age, lifestyle and medical history.

Also ask your vet about:

- Dental care
- Parasite prevention
- Weight and body condition
- Exercise after injury
- Skin and foot problems
- Nutrition
- Vaccinations
- Behaviour changes
- Senior-dog screening

If your Greyhound suddenly develops fear, aggression, lameness, appetite changes or unusual behaviour, don’t simply assume it’s a “Greyhound thing”.

A veterinary assessment can help rule out an underlying medical problem.

The Greyhound “sleep startle” issue

Pet adopted greyhound sleeps in a funny position with legs in the air

Give your Greyhound a ‘sleep zone’.

This deserves special attention for new owners.

Some Greyhounds can startle when suddenly woken.

Their sleeping area should therefore be treated as a do-not-disturb zone.

Instead of touching or startling a sleeping dog, calmly call their name from a distance if you need their attention.

If your Greyhound displays sleep aggression or other concerning behaviour, seek professional veterinary behavioural advice rather than attempting to punish the behaviour.

This is one of those small pieces of knowledge that can make a huge difference to household safety.

Are Greyhounds good with children and other animals?

The dogs met on the street and sniff each other

It’s important to introduce and assess your Greyhound with other pets and children.

They can be, but supervision is essential.

A Greyhound may be gentle while still being startled by sudden movement, noise or unexpected touching.

Children should be taught to respect the dog’s space, particularly when the Greyhound is eating or sleeping.

Every dog should have a quiet retreat where children understand they must not disturb them.

If possible take your existing dog(s) to the adoption centre for a supervised introduction with your new Greyhound or do an initial meet at a park or some other ‘safe’ area. Meeting on neutral ground avoids any territorial behaviour associated with the family home.

If you have a cat, check that the Greyhound has been through a preliminary assessment by the rescue centre. These assessments check if the Greyhound is suitable for homes with small children, cats and dogs.

To ensure safety the RSPCA guidance recommends supervising interactions between Greyhounds and children or other animals when introducing them to a new home.

Greyhound pros and cons: the quick verdict

Most Greyhounds are rescues so need specific care and attention.

The pros

✔ Calm indoors – Many Greyhounds love relaxing at home.

✔ Affectionate – They can form wonderful bonds with their families.

✔ Low grooming demands – Their short coat is relatively easy to maintain.

✔ Surprisingly adaptable – They can live comfortably in a range of homes when their needs are met.

✔ Rescue opportunities – Retired Greyhounds can make wonderful companions.

✔ Rewarding to train – Positive training can build confidence and strengthen your relationship.

The cons

✘ Strong chase instinct – Small animals may present a safety challenge.

✘ Secure fencing is essential – Their speed makes escapes particularly dangerous.

✘ Some need considerable adjustment time – Rescue Greyhounds may be unfamiliar with ordinary home life.

✘ Sensitive temperament – Harsh training methods are inappropriate.

✘ Individual differences matter – One Greyhound’s personality cannot predict another’s.

✘ Special care is needed around weather and injury – Their lean build provides less protection from environmental extremes and physical knocks.

Is a Greyhound right for you?

Greyhound resting in grass vetpet academy

Greyhounds make gentle, loving companions.

Ask yourself these questions before adopting:

- Can I provide secure fencing?
- Am I prepared to manage a dog with potential prey drive?
- Can I give a rescue Greyhound time to settle?
- Will I use reward-based training?
- Can I provide a comfortable indoor resting space?
- Am I prepared to supervise interactions with children and other pets?
- Can I commit to ongoing veterinary care and preventive health care?

If the answer is yes, a Greyhound could be an extraordinary addition to your family.

And if you’re considering a rescue Greyhound, don’t be discouraged if the first few weeks aren’t perfect.

For some dogs, the journey from kennel life to family life takes time.

Patience is part of the adoption.

Ready to give your Greyhound the best start?

A Greyhound doesn’t need a perfect owner.

They need an informed one.

Whether you’re bringing home a retired racing Greyhound, adopting a rescue, or simply want to understand the breed better, learning how dogs communicate and how reward-based training works can make everyday life easier for both of you.

Start building your dog-care knowledge with VetPet Academy.

Explore VetPet Academy’s expert-led canine care courses and resources and develop practical skills you can use throughout your dog’s life.

Your Greyhound may spend much of the day sleeping—but the quality of the life you give them matters every minute they’re awake.

What’s Your Dog’s Zodiac Sign?

A Fun Guide to Canine Astrology, Breed Personalities & Happy Tails

Have you ever looked at your dog and thought, “There is no way this little rascal wasn’t born to be the centre of attention!” Or wondered why one dog is happy snoozing on the couch while another is scaling the back fence in search of adventure?

At VetPet Academy, we’re not astrologers (although the founder is a proud Taurus person whose calm energy complements working with animals – and gives her patience with non-Taurus humans!), but we do know a thing or two about dog breeds, dog behaviour, and even human behaviour. Every day we see how different personalities—both canine and human—shape the relationships we have with our pets.

So, just for fun, we’ve combined traditional zodiac traits with what we know about dogs to create this light-hearted guide. Is it scientific? No. Is it entertaining? Absolutely. And along the way, we’ve added practical tips to help keep your four-legged family member healthy, happy and living their very best life.

Find Out About Your Dog!

We have listed examples of dog breeds associated with certain behavioural traits often linked to human Zodiac Signs.

We’ve also added what sign their human soul mate should be and how their humans can keep them happy!

Click on the date when your dog was born and see if we have correctly matched yours:

Gemini

(May 21 – Jun 20)

🐾 A Final Tail Wag of Wisdom

Whether your dog is a fearless Aries, a snack-loving Taurus, or a dreamy Pisces, one thing is absolutely certain—they don’t care what the stars say nearly as much as they care about you.

The happiest dogs aren’t the ones with the “perfect” zodiac sign. They’re the ones whose humans understand their personality, provide kind leadership, keep them healthy, stimulate their minds, and make time every day for play, exercise, training and affection.

At VetPet Academy, we believe that learning about dog behaviour—whether through science or a little astrological fun—helps us become better companions to our four-legged friends. Every wagging tail, goofy grin, muddy paw print and enthusiastic welcome at the front door is a reminder that dogs live in the moment and love without conditions.

So, laugh at the horoscope, share it with your fellow dog lovers, compare notes on your own canine’s quirky personality… and remember:

Your dog doesn’t need a perfect horoscope. They just need a healthy body, an active mind, a loving home, and a human who thinks they’re the best dog in the universe.

Because in their eyes…

You already are. 🐾

♈ The Aries Dog

(March 21 – April 19)

“Ready? Let’s GO!”

If your dog could drink coffee, they’d probably have three espressos before breakfast.

Aries dogs are born adventurers. They’re fearless, energetic and firmly believe every bird, butterfly and squirrel has personally challenged them to a race.