Training
There are many different views on how you should train a greyhound. This will change from trainer to trainer and vary depending on the individual dogs needs. The following is a guide only and can be adjusted to suit. Here are some basic requirements to get your racing dog fit and track ready.
It would be advisable to get a professional to view your dog and determine when training should commence. The breaking in and training of a dog to box is extremely important. This requires some expertise and can make or break a dog. Once a dog gets bad habits or loses its confidence at such a vital stage in its training can imprint a fear of starting boxes, chasing and race-day competition. Before taking your dog to a trainer you should have your dog fit, worm free and vaccinated. It's a good idea to take your young dog to your local track a couple of times before breaking in to get him use to other dog's and the noises associated with the track. After completion of the dogs basic training you should rest the dog and give it a chance to recover from its traumatic time, generally about 6-8 weeks of complete rest.
Once your dog has completed its basic training you are now ready to get it race fit and start trialing at your local track. A good idea is to get your dog,s blood tested for possible irregularities that can be addressed before you start racing. These can consist of shortages in iron, potassium and other essential elements that your dog needs. The test can also check for thyroid disorders (common to dogs after breaking in due to stress.) Your vet can advise you on what test to perform. The cost can range from $30 to $100 depending on the test required.
At first just run your dog on its own once a week, and then with one other until the dog is comfortable boxing and running around the track. Once your dog is comfortable running try him with a small field e.g. 5 to 6 dogs to get him use to racing conditions. Make sure after each run you check your dog as it can develop problems with shin soreness due to the bones adjusting to the pressures of cornering at high speeds. If your dog is sore, rest and treat the areas concerned or seek medical advice.(Vet Help Page )
When your dog has reached racing fitness you only need to slip him up a straight track once to twice weekly or trial once weekly at your local track to maintain fitness. Walking is good for the mind and you but doesn't do a lot for the dog other than get it use to road noises and vehicles. Some trainers don't walk their dogs at all after reaching racing fitness and rely on the dogs to keep their own fitness with free running at the park or in a paddock. (The view on walking your dog will vary from trainer to trainer.)
At all times have your dog muzzled in a public place. This is to protect the odd roaming cat and other small dogs that you may come across. The NZGRA rules are very clear on this and fines may be imposed. Above all remember all dogs need to be treated as individuals, and you need to tailor your feeding/training to suit.