The Life and Times of Your Greyhound
I often get emails and calls regarding the life of a greyhound and at what age that a greyhound will start training, racing etc. Because of this, I thought I would put together a short timeline below so you know at what age things will happen if you are considering getting involved in greyhound racing through syndication and through outright ownership.
Between the ages of 0-3 months (i.e. just after the greyhound pup is born) the greyhound pup will receive its first vaccinations and vet checks. The birth (whelping) is generally registered with the local Greyhound Racing authority.
From 3-12 months, a greyhound will be kept on a rearing farm where it will get plenty of exercise. They are often advertised for sale during this time.
From 12-18 months, your greyhound will be broken in for racing, and you will lodge all the relevant forms with the local greyhound racing organisation. You will also name your greyhound. Towards the end of this period is when your greyhound may start racing. the breaking in process involves preparing the greyhound for racing by training it to chase the lure and jump from the boxes.
The career of a racing greyhound varies from greyhound to greyhound but the general racing age is between 18 months and 4 years. Post racing you have yourself a lovely pet, or a greyhound that you can use for breeding if they have had a successful career.