Roaching: Why Do Greyhounds Do It and What Does It Mean?

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If you're a proud greyhound owner or simply fascinated by these majestic creatures, you may have witnessed your furry friend indulging in a peculiar behaviour called "roaching." Roaching refers to the adorable and amusing sight of a greyhound lying on their back with their legs in the air, exposing themselves to the world! Why do greyhounds do it, and what does it mean? Let's dive into the fascinating world of roaching to find out!

What is roaching?

Roaching is when greyhounds lie on their backs with their legs in the air, similar to a dead or dying insect. “Roach” is the shortened version of the word “cockroach”, hence the name.

As a new owner of an adopted greyhound, it may be quite alarming to see your greyhound, sprawled out on their back, legs in the air, sometimes showing teeth, and one may think their poor hound is unwell. In fact, a roaching greyhound is happy, content, and comfortable!

Why do greyhounds roach?

It is believed that greyhounds roach when they are content, feel safe and relaxed, as exposing their belly, makes dogs more vulnerable to attack.

Pure Bliss and Comfort?

Roaching is often seen as a sign of pure contentment and comfort. When a greyhound stretches out on their back, exposing their belly and legs, it indicates that they feel completely at ease in their environment. It's their way of saying, "I trust and feel safe here!" It could also be your hound’s way of saying, “please feel free to give me some attention and rub my belly”.

Temperature Regulation?

Greyhounds have thin coats and lack a significant layer of body fat, making them more sensitive to temperature changes. Roaching can help them to cool down on hot days by exposing their bellies to the air, helping to regulate their body temperature.

Stretching and Flexibility?

Roaching can serve as a way for greyhounds to stretch their bodies, improving flexibility and promoting blood circulation. Just like humans, dogs need regular stretching to keep their muscles healthy and supple.

Paddy says: I love roaching after I have had my dinner and I'm lying in my bed. I feel really content and comfortable and I fall asleep like this. I also like roaching when I'm lying in the sunshine.

How long does it take for an adopted greyhound to roach after they move into their forever home?

Ex racing greyhounds may not have experienced life within a home before, so it may take a bit of time for them to settle and feel safe and relaxed. Some greyhound owners report their hounds roaching within days, other greyhounds may take weeks, months or even years.

Paddy says: I was in my forever home for 3 weeks before I roached in my bed. My hoomans took lots of pictures of me and kept smiling and laughing! I just wanted to relax and sleep!

Do all greyhounds roach?

Not all greyhounds’ roach. If your hound doesn’t roach, it doesn’t mean that he / she is not happy or content in their forever home. It also doesn’t mean that they love you any less.

have a greyt day roaching greyhound