It’s a question some have asked and unless they are in the business or know someone who is, they have never truly known…
Before you decide to buy Greyhounds for sale, be warned that it takes commitment, time and effort. Consider it as an investment and keep in mind that only the best bred actually make it and succeed on the racetrack. With this said, here are some things to guide you in raising a Greyhound for racing.
Keep the puppy healthy and happy.
Breeders tend to keep the pups with their mothers for as long as possible. To avoid separation anxiety, they are gradually separated. But in about eight or nine weeks’ time, the pups are ready to be on their own.
Once you have carefully selected a quality Greyhound for sale, you need to make an effort to keep the puppy both happy and healthy. The rearing years are crucial and you really need to pay attention to nutrition. Give the puppy the best nutrition possible so it can possibly develop into a champion athlete on the racetrack. The breeder may be able to share a couple of tips and strategies in rearing the pup, so listen closely.
At this stage, training may begin. The pup can be sent out to roam freely. It is favorable if you can provide a good amount of space. Such will allow the puppy to practice running and help in the development of healthy and strong limbs. It is also beneficial to their cardiovascular system.
Train gradually.
Greyhounds are natural keen hunters. In the puppy’s formative years, it is important that this is further developed. It can be done with the use of aid materials such as rags and mechanical lures.
During the early years, a Greyhound pup is more than eager to learn. And pups also tend to enjoy the training as it allows them to play. As the pup, advances in skills, you need to move on to other training materials and strategies. Gradually, you can put the puppy into a racetrack.
All these depend on the development in training as shown by the puppy. Some may learn more quickly than others may. If you have a puppy that is a late bloomer, do not force it.
Prepare for racecourse trials.
Before a Greyhound is allowed to race for money, it has to go through a couple of racecourse trials first. This is a way to match the dog’s skills with others of its kind.
Watch out for injuries.
Greyhounds are one of the healthiest breeds of dogs. But when they are racing, they are more prone to injuries and you need to prepare for such things too. In fact, a racing Greyhound needs careful medical attention to ensure it is always at optimum health to get a guarantee of peak performance.
Greyhounds can race on average of four to five years. After that, they may need to retire from their racing careers. Those without a home are put up for adoption.
You however, can make certain adjustments and ensure that the transition from racetrack to house life is nothing less than smooth for the dog. The Greyhound can prove it can offer more than bet winnings on the racetrack. It can be a reliable home companion too.