Greyhounds are the oldest breed of dog and one of the most beloved. Evidence of these beautiful creatures is seen in the
tombs of Egyptian Pharaohs dating back to over 3000 years ago. They were loved by nobility and commoners alike. There is no
comparison to the greyhounds speed. They can reach speeds of up to 45 mph and are over 10 times faster than a thoroughbred
racehorse. The greyhounds instinct is to chase. When doing so, they rely on their sight unlike most hounds that rely on smell.
Because of this, they are considered "sight hounds". A greyhound can see up to a half mile away.
Originally man relied on the greyhound to hunt for food and kill rodents that threatened crops. However, greyhounds also
provided entertainment through the sport of coursing in which a game animal was chased in open fields. Eventually coursing
became a competitive sport in which two hounds ran against each other to catch the game. Of course, the competitive nature
of the sport led to wagering. Eventually mechanical lures and oval tracks were created which led to modern day greyhound racing.
Racing continues in the US today as well as England, Ireland and Australia.
Greyhounds usually "retire" from their racing careers around 4 years of age. Often times though they are retired earlier
due to injury or poor performance. My poor Zoe didn't win any races so she was adopted out at 2 years of age. Our goal
of course is to get all greyhounds adopted once they retire. Greyhounds are gentle loving animals that are usually good with
children. They make wonderful companions and usually settle into their new adoptive homes quite nicely.
Greyhounds are large dogs weighing in at anywhere from 55 to 100 lbs but you wouldn't know it. Greyhounds are very graceful
and actually don't require an excessive amount of space. However, it is best to have a fenced in back yard. Greyhounds should
never be let off of their leash or tied out on a chain. Remember, their instinct is to chase so they can easily run off and
become lost or injured. If tied out on a chain there is a serious threat as they may see something they want to chase and
go after it forgetting they are on a chain. Greyhounds can reach top speed in only a few strides so they risk breaking their
necks if they are tied out.
Greyhounds are crate trained but not potty trained. It will take some time and patience as with any other dog. There is
also an option of adopting a dog that has been in a foster home so they are already house broken and use to a non-track environment.
Adopting a greyhound is a great responsibility and not something to be taken lightly. Adoption agencies require you to
fill out an application and sometimes require a home visit. The adoption fee is usually around $200 depending on the agency.
There are several books and of course web sites you can refer to, to find out more about greyhound adoption.
