301 Leisure and Recreation:. Back to Greyhound University

There are many avenues available to provide a greyhound with post career diversions.
Amateur Lure Coursing
Some owners will gather their greyhounds for amateur lure coursing.  An open area is found and an artificial lure such as a white plastic bag is tied to a rope.  The lure is dragged over a course and the dogs chase the lure.  Sometimes dogs can be hurt in this sport, so it is imperative that greyhounds be in peak condition to reduce the chance of injury during competition.  For more information on Lure Coursing, click on this link.
Obedience Training 
These are classes geared to help the owner interact more successfully with the dog.  Care should be given to find a trainer who practices humane training methods.  Greyhounds are sensitive creatures and need gentle correction; an important point to look for when choosing a trainer.  Some dogs go on to do competitive obedience meets.
Agility Training
Agility is a sport where dogs learn to follow the owner's direction on a course while off leash.  There are courses set up, sort of like an obstacle course.  Dogs then compete for maximum points for not missing apparatus and best time through the course.
Therapy Work
There is overwhelming antidotal wisdom and mounting scientific evidence that people who are in nursing homes, home bound or in pediatric care units do better when given a chance to interact with animals.  Greyhounds calm, gentle nature makes them a natural for brightening the days of people who are unable to leave their living quarters.  The dogs' height is also helpful for people who cannot reach a shorter dog.
And there are lots of informal things to do with your hound:
* Go for a car ride
* Go for a run
* Take a nap