Australian Greyhound Adoption Directory

Thinking about adopting a greyhound? You’re in the right place.

These gentle, affectionate dogs are often misunderstood. Despite their racing background, greyhounds are calm, low-maintenance companions who love nothing more than a comfy bed and time with their family.

Adopting a greyhound gives them a second chance at the life they deserve, as a loved member of the family.

Greyhounds? Not just athletes or couch potatoes. They're vibrant, funny, and chock-full of love.

Why adopt a greyhound

Greyhounds have a quiet charm that is hard to miss. They are gentle, affectionate, and surprisingly low maintenance, with a calm presence that suits both relaxed and busy households.

At home, they are known for their love of comfort, often found stretched out on their back without a care, or dozing peacefully for most of the day. Their energy comes in short, playful bursts, a quick run, a few spins, and then they are ready to settle again. It is this balance of liveliness and calm that makes them so easy to live with.

They also have their own subtle ways of showing affection, from soft teeth chatters when they are excited to the occasional goofy expression that never quite loses its charm.

Adopting a greyhound means welcoming a dog that is not only easygoing, but full of quiet personality and character.

Why adopting a greyhound makes a difference

Greyhounds are incredibly special dogs, yet many find themselves in need of homes while still young. Adoption gives them the chance to move from a racing environment into a calm, secure home where they can simply be part of a family.

For many, it is a true second chance. Overbreeding within the industry means there are always greyhounds waiting for homes, and adoption helps give them the life they deserve beyond the track.

They are also often misunderstood when it comes to exercise. Despite their athletic background, greyhounds are naturally low-energy and do not require excessive activity. A couple of short walks and the occasional run are usually more than enough, with the rest of their day happily spent resting.

Adopting a greyhound is not just about bringing home a dog, it is about offering stability, comfort, and a new beginning.

Stepping into greyhound adoption and fostering

If you are not quite ready to commit, fostering is a great place to start. It allows you to experience life with a greyhound while receiving ongoing support from rescue organisations. Many people find it is the easiest way to understand the breed and what suits their home.

When you feel ready, adoption is a straightforward next step. Rescue groups will guide you through the process and help match you with a greyhound that fits your lifestyle, making the transition into your home as smooth as possible.

Find a greyhound near you

Below is a directory of greyhound rescue organisations across Australia to help you get started.

Each organisation can guide you through fostering or adoption and help match you with a greyhound that suits your home and lifestyle.

Rescue Groups

AUSTRALIA WIDE

  • Pet Rescue: A platform for rescue groups to advertise, always showcasing greyhounds/cross greys.

VICTORIA

NEW SOUTH WALES

AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY

QUEENSLAND

TASMANIA

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

NORTHERN TERRITORY

Advocacy & Campaign Groups

Please note these organisations focus on advocacy and do not directly facilitate adoption.

There are many organisations across Australia working to improve welfare standards and create better outcomes for greyhounds. These groups play an important role in education, awareness, and ongoing industry reform.

Free the Hounds

A Western Australia based volunteer group focused on promoting greyhound welfare through education, public awareness, and advocacy for industry change.

Coalition for the Protection of Greyhounds (CPG)

A national organisation established in response to the 2015 live baiting scandal, working to raise awareness and advocate for the end of greyhound racing in Australia.

Animal Liberation NSW

Founded in 1976, this organisation advocates for the rights and welfare of all animals, including greyhounds, through education, campaigns, and community action.

Animal Liberation QLD

Based in Brisbane, this long-standing organisation focuses on promoting a cruelty-free future through advocacy, public engagement, and ongoing campaigns.

Greyhound Equality Society of Australia

A national group dedicated to improving outcomes for greyhounds through education, policy advocacy, and raising awareness around welfare issues.