Laila the 3-year-old Rampur Greyhound, photo courtesy of Ankur
rahm-poor gray·hound
The Rampur Greyhound is a sleek athletic dog with tall legs, a long snout, and a narrow torso. They have a thin, whip like tail that reaches almost down to their ankles. They are more handsome and majestic than adorable. Rampur Greyhounds have a scissor bite and large oval eyes. Their coat is short, flat, and smooth and can be in a wide range of colors. Many are solid colors such as black, white, tan, or grey, while others have spots and some are brindle.
Rampur Greyhounds are typically shy dogs but are extremely loyal to their leader. They are fantastic with children because of their gentle behavior and playfulness. Just be mindful of the size of this breed when they are running, they can easily knock over small children. These dogs were meant to hunt small animals so it is not the best dog if you have other animals in the house. They are full of energy so they will be more attentive to humans as opposed to sleeping all day. This breed can easily adjust to being around other dogs so long as they have been socialized and trained. When they play with other dogs, they tend to run at high speeds and butt their chests together with force.
Height: Males: 24 - 30 inches (61-76 cm) Females: 22 - 24 inches (56 - 61 cm)
Weight: Males about 60 - 65 pounds (27 - 29 kg) Females 60 - 65 pounds (27 - 29 kg)
Prone to bloat and skin problems. This breed may be sensitive to anesthesia
This breed can thrive in both houses and apartments as long as they get daily exercise. Rampur Greyhounds don’t bark too often so they are excellent if you have neighbors. Because they are naturally timid, they must be socialized in order to get along with others. If you have a yard, it is best to have a fence in case their hunting instinct takes over and your dog decides to run after a small wild animal.
The Rampur Greyhound needs a daily walk or jog. While out on the walk the dog must be made to heel beside or behind the person holding the lead, as instinct tells a dog the leader leads the way, and that leader needs to be the human. These dogs are energetic and lively and are in their glory when allowed to romp and play, especially if their owner or a companion dog joins in the fun.
About 9 - 15 years
About 6 to 9 puppies
Because of its short flat coat, this dog does not require much grooming. Bathe with mild soap and warm water when necessary.
Rampur Greyhounds have been around for about 300 years, originating in Northern India. They were originally bred to hunt large animals such as tigers, lions, panthers, leopards and especially jackal. They are known to be one of the fastest dogs in the world and can reach speeds above 40mph. The Nawab of Rampur state, Ahmad Ali Khan of Rampur, bred these dogs by breeding Tazi and English Greyhound. Rampur Greyhounds were primarily used for preying on animals for hunts or protection. In 1947, the breed fell from popularity because the Maharajahs were not in power any longer. This change of power influenced the breeding of the Rampur Greyhound. Many lines were bred with English hounds which makes it difficult to find a purebred Rampur Greyhound today. Because of the changing times, dogs are no longer needed to hunt therefore the Rampur Greyhound is near extinction. This rare breed has just recently began gaining popularity but there are still very few that are alive today.
Sighthound
Flamey the Rampur Greyhound at 10 years old—"Flamey is a female Rampur Greyhound specimen owned by Mr Irshad Ali Khan, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India. She is a sweet, active and intelligent female, always ready to run and is very fast. She likes to please her master. She is never aggressive and is good tempered. Mr Irshad Ali is the biggest breeder and promotor of Rampur Greyhound breed."—Picture courtesy of Ajit Roy
Flamey the Rampur Greyhound at 10 years old—Picture courtesy of Ajit Roy
"Lovely is a female Rampur Greyhound shown here at 9 months old, owned by Mr Irshad Ali Khan, Lucknow, Utar Pradesh, India. Lucky is an active, friendly and sweet female pup. She is very tall even at 9 months of age."—Picture courtesy of Ajit Roy
Lovely the Rampur Greyhound at 9 months old—Picture courtesy of Ajit Roy
Laila the 3-year-old Rampur Greyhound, photo courtesy of Ankur