National Greyhound Day
June 2, 2027
About National Greyhound Day
National Greyhound Day takes place every year on 2 June and is observed primarily across the United States. The day celebrates the greyhound breed and raises awareness of the thousands of retired racing dogs that need loving homes. It encourages adoption, education, and a greater understanding of one of the oldest and gentlest dog breeds.
What is National Greyhound Day?
National Greyhound Day is an annual observance dedicated to the greyhound, a breed known for its speed, elegance, and surprisingly calm temperament. The day was established by greyhound advocates and adoption groups to help the public see retired racing greyhounds as affectionate family pets rather than simply athletes. It is closely associated with the work of The Greyhound Project, a long-running organisation that promotes greyhound adoption and supports a network of rescue agencies across North America. The observance focuses on celebrating the breed while drawing attention to the welfare of dogs leaving the racing industry.
When is National Greyhound Day?
National Greyhound Day falls on 2 June every year. In 2027 it will be observed on Wednesday, 2 June. It is a fixed-date observance, so it does not move from year to year, which makes it easy to plan adoption events, fundraisers, and meet-ups around the same date annually. It should not be confused with Adopt a Greyhound Month, which runs throughout April, or with National Greyhound Adoption Day, observed on the third Sunday of April.
Why National Greyhound Day Matters
The day matters because it spotlights a breed whose recent history has been defined by major change. As commercial greyhound racing has declined across the United States, tens of thousands of dogs have needed new homes. When Florida voters approved Amendment 13 in 2018 with around 69 percent support, all of the state’s tracks were required to stop racing by the end of 2020, leaving between 5,000 and 7,000 greyhounds to be rehomed. National Greyhound Day helps connect these dogs with adopters and reminds the public that retired racers typically make quiet, gentle, and loving companions. With roughly 300 greyhound adoption agencies operating across the country, the observance also serves as a rallying point for the volunteers and rescue networks that make rehoming possible.
How to Get Involved in National Greyhound Day
There are many ways to mark the day, whether you already share your home with a greyhound or simply want to support the cause.
- Adopt a retired greyhound – If you are ready for a new pet, contact a local greyhound rescue. Retired racers are usually house-trained, calm indoors, and well suited to family life.
- Sponsor or foster a dog – If adoption is not possible, fostering or sponsoring a greyhound in a rescue’s care helps cover food and veterinary costs while a dog waits for a permanent home.
- Donate to a greyhound charity – Many rescues rely entirely on donations to transport, rehabilitate, and rehome dogs. A one-off or regular gift makes a tangible difference.
- Volunteer your time – Adoption agencies need help with transport, kennel work, home checks, and fundraising events. Volunteering is a hands-on way to support the breed.
- Share greyhound facts online – Post photos and dispel common myths, such as the belief that greyhounds need huge amounts of exercise. Many are happy with a couple of short walks and a soft sofa.
- Attend a meet-and-greet – Rescues often hold greyhound walks or social events where prospective adopters can meet the dogs and learn about their care.
- Educate yourself and others – Read about the breed’s history and the realities of the racing industry so you can have informed conversations with friends and family.
- Treat your own greyhound – If you already have one, mark the day with a new coat, a comfortable bed, or simply some extra attention.
History of National Greyhound Day
The greyhound is one of the oldest dog breeds known to humanity, with depictions of similar sighthounds appearing in ancient art thousands of years ago. For centuries the breed was prized for its hunting ability and remarkable speed, capable of reaching around 45 miles per hour. In the twentieth century, organised greyhound racing became a popular spectator sport in the United States, the United Kingdom, and elsewhere, which shaped the modern public image of the breed.
National Greyhound Day emerged more recently from the efforts of advocates who wanted to change how the breed is viewed. The Greyhound Project, which had already spent years connecting retired racers with adoptive families, helped bring national attention to the cause. As racing tracks across the United States began to close, the urgency of rehoming dogs grew, and supporters established a dedicated day to focus public attention on adoption and welfare.
One of the most visible early celebrations took place on 2 June 2018, when social media filled with photographs and stories of greyhounds living happily as pets. Since then the observance has grown steadily, with rescues, veterinary practices, and individual owners using the date to promote adoption and celebrate the breed.
Noteworthy Facts About National Greyhound Day
- Greyhounds are among the fastest dogs in the world and can reach speeds of around 45 miles per hour over short distances.
- Despite their athleticism, greyhounds are often nicknamed “45-mile-per-hour couch potatoes” because they sleep for much of the day.
- There are roughly 300 greyhound adoption agencies operating across the United States.
- Florida’s Amendment 13, passed in 2018 with about 69 percent of the vote, ended commercial greyhound racing in the state by 31 December 2020.
- The greyhound is one of the oldest recorded dog breeds, with sighthound imagery appearing in ancient civilisations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is National Greyhound Day?
National Greyhound Day is an annual US observance that celebrates the greyhound breed and raises awareness of retired racing dogs in need of homes. It encourages adoption, education, and support for greyhound welfare.
When is National Greyhound Day in 2027?
National Greyhound Day is on Wednesday, 2 June 2027. It is observed on the same date every year.
How is National Greyhound Day different from Adopt a Greyhound Month?
Adopt a Greyhound Month runs throughout April and was started in 2010 by The Greyhound Project, while National Greyhound Day is a single observance on 2 June. Both focus on adoption, but they fall at different points in the year.
Spread the Word
Help raise awareness by sharing National Greyhound Day with your friends, family, and followers. Use the hashtags #NationalGreyhoundDay and #NationalGreyhoundDay2027 on social media. The more people who learn that retired racers make gentle, loving pets, the more dogs will find the homes they deserve.
Related Awareness Days
- National Great Dane Day – Another June celebration of a much-loved dog breed, this time honouring the gentle giant of the canine world.
- National Dachshund Day – A day dedicated to the distinctive sausage dog, sharing the same spirit of breed appreciation.
- National Dog Dad Day – A celebration of the bond between dogs and the people who care for them.
Links
Featured image: Photo by S J on Unsplash.
2026 Awareness Days Wall Planner
Every key awareness day at a glance. Perfect for offices, staff rooms, and team planning.
View Calendar →
