Pet Wiki

Galgo Español

Also called Spanish Galgo, Spanish Greyhound, Galgo

Serious and somewhat reserved in everyday life, turning lively and energetic once out hunting.

SizeLarge
Height60 to 70 cm (24 to 28 in)males 62 to 70 cm, females 60 to 68 cm1
CoatSmooth or rough
OriginSpain.12
GroupFCI group 10
Last checked2026-09-30
Recognised breedShort profile
Quiet and reserved
Energetic, lively hunter
Built for endurance
12

Personality what they are like

Serious and somewhat reserved in everyday life, turning lively and energetic once out hunting.1

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Galgo Español. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

  • Brushingevery week
  • Bathevery 8 weeks
  • Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
  • Ear checkevery 2 weeks
  • Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
  • ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
  • Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
  • Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 7every year

Coat and looks how to spot one

smooth or rough

Comes in two coats: short and fine, or semi-long and harsh, the rougher coat giving extra protection in the field. The body is lean with a longer tail and shallower chest than an English Greyhound, and it stands slightly higher at the rear.12

Coloursall colours; brindle and fawn preferredblackfleckedchestnutcinnamonyellowredwhitepied12

Daily activity how busy a day looks

A sight hound bred to chase hare over open country, so it enjoys regular chances to gallop in a safe, enclosed space as well as daily walks.1

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Smooth-coated dogs need very little grooming; rough-coated dogs benefit from occasional brushing.12

The story where it all began

The Galgo is thought to descend from the Celtic sighthounds known in Roman Iberia, later mixing with North African Sloughis brought during the medieval period. It has long been used across Spain for coursing hare in open country.12

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    12th-century wall paintings in the Hermitage of San Baudelio de Berlanga show Galgos on the hunt.2

  2. 2

    A galgo is mentioned in the opening lines of Don Quixote.2

  3. 3

    Galgos were exported to Ireland and England between the 16th and 18th centuries and contributed to the English Greyhound.1

  4. 4

    Its name probably comes from the Latin 'Canis Gallicus', meaning 'dog from Gaul'.2

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed name 'Galgo Español' comes from the Spanish word 'galgo', meaning greyhound, and 'Español' indicating its Spanish origin. The breed is an ancient sighthound from Spain, used for hunting hare in open fields.3

Name ideas for your new friend

LuzSolVientoAlmaRayoNubeChispaBrisaCieloRosaPepitoEstrella

A day in the life told by a Galgo Español

I wake up with the sun and stretch my long legs. My human takes me to a big open field where I can run like the wind. I chase the breeze and feel the earth under my paws. After a good gallop, we walk home slowly, and I enjoy the quiet. At home, I find a cozy spot and watch the world go by. In the afternoon, we go for a gentle walk, and I greet my neighbors with a calm nod. At night, I curl up beside my human, feeling safe and content. Life is simple and good.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

FCI
Standard No. 285, Group 10 Sighthounds, Section 3 Short-haired sighthounds.1
Real Sociedad Canina de España
Spanish native breed, listed among vulnerable Spanish breeds.2

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

  • 1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

  1. Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
  2. Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
  3. Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

  • 1 cooking pumpkin
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
  • Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

  1. Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
  2. Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
  3. Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
  4. Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
  5. Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
  6. Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
  7. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

  • 1 egg
  • 170g boiled chicken breast
  • 100g cooked plain rice
  • 60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
  • 680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
  2. Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
  3. Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
  4. Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
  5. Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
  6. Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
  7. Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Galgo Español, and at what times?

Feed your Galgo Español at least two meals a day for an adult, and three to four smaller meals for a puppy. Regular meal times help their digestion, and you can adjust based on your dog's routine. For exact amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.4

What should a Galgo Español eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a high-quality dog food suitable for their age and activity level. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts, which are especially harmful to dogs. Always avoid giving them human foods like alcohol, caffeine, or raw meat.5

How often should I bathe a Galgo Español?

Bathe your Galgo Español at least once every three months, or more often if they get dirty or have skin issues. Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 56 days. Use a gentle dog shampoo to keep their coat healthy.6 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Galgo Español need brushing?

Smooth-coated Galgos need very little brushing, while rough-coated ones benefit from occasional brushing. Pet Wiki's starting plan recommends brushing once a week. This helps remove loose hair and keeps their coat in good condition.12 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Galgo Español's nails, and how often?

Trim your Galgo's nails when you hear them clicking on the floor, or about every 28 days as a starting point. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick (the pink part inside). If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for a demonstration.6 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Galgo Español need?

This breed needs daily walks and regular chances to gallop in a safe, enclosed space. They are energetic hunters at heart, so daily exercise and play are important. Pet Wiki's starting plan includes daily walks and playtime.1 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Galgo Español's teeth and ears?

Brush their teeth two to three times a week with dog toothpaste (never human toothpaste). Check their ears every two weeks, and never push anything into the ear canal. Pet Wiki suggests daily brushing is ideal for teeth.6 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Galgo Español live?

The lifespan of a Galgo Español varies, but they are generally a healthy breed. For specific longevity information, ask your vet or a good breeder, as it depends on individual health and care.

Is a Galgo Español good with children and other pets?

Galgo Españols can be serious and reserved in everyday life, so early socialization is key. They may do well with children and other pets if raised together, but their hunting instinct might affect small animals. Always supervise interactions and ask a breeder for advice.1

Can a Galgo Español be left alone?

This breed can be left alone for moderate periods, but they are social dogs and may not like long solitude. Provide toys and a comfortable space, and gradually get them used to alone time. For specific guidance, ask your vet or a good breeder.

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.

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Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? [email protected].

  1. FCI Standard No. 285 Spanish Greyhound (Galgo Español) fci.beused for group, height, coat, colours, temperament, use, history
  2. Spanish Galgo - Wikipedia en.wikipedia.orgused for history, body build, colours, fun facts, RSCE status
  3. en.wikipedia.org en.wikipedia.org
  4. VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
  5. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  6. ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.