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Greyhounds and Whippets are generally used for racing at the dog tracks, though they are also very loving and loyal pets to own and as easy to keep as any other dog breed.

Popularity
Following dog racing has been a sport for many years and is as popular an interest as that of horse racing, with spectators betting on the races to owning a dog yourself. Far more people are involved in greyhound racing as spectators than as owners.

Location
You can quite happily keep a greyhound or whippet as a pet in the home, though dog racing tacks are all over the U.K. some of the dogs are kept at special boarding kennels who help with the training.

Age
Though there was no specific age found for starting to race dogs professionally it is assumed that due to the nature of this sport a minimum age would be 18, though owning a dog as a family pet is great for all ages of the family.

Description
Greyhound racing is a favourite past time, with a meeting at the tracks being a social event for many from individuals, to groups and even companies booking a night at the track, including a meal, watching the dogs race and even being able to place a bet on your favourite dog. These dogs are beautiful and streamlined and an exciting animal to watch as they chase a dummy rabbit round the track to compete for the fastest time.

Dedication
While tracks and associations want the best for their racers, it is down to the individual to consider costs and ownership as a very serious venture, it is encouraged that new comers seek advice and information from many of the trainers and breeders at the track before actually entering this fun sport, weather owning a dog as a racer which may incur kennel costs or as a family pet it is still just as important to consider costs, such as food and vets bills that may occur from time to time.

Potential
Potential to own a great family pet by homing a retired greyhound/whippet. Or own a dog professionally and enjoy a great social aspect and the rewards of prizes through competitions.

Cost
To buy a Greyhound/Whippet can start from a few hundred pounds up into thousands of pounds, keeping a racing dog in kennels and training can start from ?6 per day, vets fees start from ?15 for a simple consultation and can rise into thousands depending on the problem. Many people buy in together and own a share of the dog to keep these costs to a minimum.

Level of Demand
The table below shows the maximum levels of demand that this activity requires. NOTE: These are not entry levels or levels of requirement and has nothing to do with ability.

Energy

Arms

Legs

Sight

Hearing

Speech

Learning

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