CHESHIRE Dogs’ Home is showcasing some of the beautiful greyhounds available for adoption at its Grappenhall shelter.

These include Tucker, Jack, Bert, Tess and Axle – all retired racers now looking for their forever homes.

Home manager, Anna Stanfield, said: ‘‘Greyhounds are generally quizzical, sometimes shy, very sensitive, and surprisingly gentle.

‘‘They possess superior intelligence and can exhibit a quiet but surprising independence.

‘‘Because of their early training, retired racing greyhounds have never been without the company of other greyhounds and never had the opportunity to really be a puppy.

‘‘Because of this they may need to act out some puppy behaviour, like chewing, which they typically outgrow quickly.

‘‘They’re eager to please and can be trained with patience, consistency and positive reinforcement.

‘‘They’re used to walking on the lead and will learn to heel quickly.

‘‘Most greyhounds don’t know how to sit, climb stairs, or play games only because they have not yet been taught.

‘‘With time they can learn all of these things.

‘‘Likewise, they’ve not been exposed to general household items, hoovers, televisions and so on, but they adapt quickly and just need time to adjust to these new experiences.

‘‘Greyhounds do have a high prey drive at first, which people need to be aware of.

‘‘Greyhounds, including ex-racers, can and do make fantastic companion animals and we’re looking for patient owners to adopt some of these lovely dogs from the Dogs’ Home.”

Anyone wishing to make an appointment to meet one of the dogs with a view to adoption should contact Cheshire Dogs’ Home through www.dogshome.net or call 0300 102 1212.