Good handbook on prospective ownership of the greyhound. Read in anticipation of adopting one next month.

a reprint with more updated photos would be great. Otherwise, much of the info is useful.
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The book is as good as the dog itself. A very practical guide to adopting these incredibly intelligent, wonderful pups. Adopted a greyhound three years ago through Ms. Branigan's group, Make Peace with Animals. I still refer to the book from time to time. ( )

Most greyhound adoption organizations recommend this book, and it's no mystery why: it's filled with practical, useful information, written in clear prose, based on the author's extensive professional and personal experience with greyhounds. She has a sense of humor as well ("[Greyhounds] are watchdogs only in the sense that they will watch, but probably not act," p. 19).

There is also a picture of an adorable greyhound puppy on p. 48.

Racing injuries (p 51-52): a "spike" is when the toenail of one dog punctures the back leg or foot of another dog (painful, but minor if treated properly and not allowed to become infected)

Racing dogs are used to:
-rising early
-strict routine
-being handled
-music
-walking on a lead
-being around other greyhounds
-four turnouts daily
-being around people
(p. 53-54)

Crate size: 27" x 40" x 30" (500-size crate), plastic is preferable to metal/wire.

Some of the most important things to remember are: (1) NEVER let the greyhound off the leash in an unfenced area, (2) greyhounds are more sensitive to anesthesia, many medications including tick and flea meds (though Frontline and Advantage are both fine), and insecticides; a general rule of thumb is that if a product says "safe for use on puppies and kittens" it is also safe for greyhounds.

They are intelligent, quiet, affectionate, and learn quickly with positive reinforcement (reward-based training).

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