Greyhound (Leporarius - hare-hunter)

Greyhound Specifications
Highest Speed: 42 mph
Life Span: 12-13 years
Height: 28 - 30"
Weight: 65 - 70 lbs.
Coat Type: The coat is short, smooth.
Temperament: Intelligent, sensitive, loyal, brave.

History

The greyhound is one of the oldest breeds of sighthounds in the world and originated in ancient Egypt over 4000 years ago. The greyhound became very popular in Greece and from there spread to Europe.

In the 10th century, killing a greyhound was punishable by death under the laws passed by King Howel of Wales.
In 1016 King Canute passed laws that stated only noblemen could own and hunt with greyhounds.Owen Patrick Smith invented the mechanical lure in 1912 and the first greyhound track opened in Emeryville, California six years later. The first track race in England opened in 1926.

Canute's Laws of the Forest :

Law 31 : No meane person may keepe any greihounds, but freemen may keepe greihounds, so that their knees may be cut before the verderons of the forest, and without cutting of their knees also, if he does not abide 10 miles from the bounds of the forest. But if they doe come any nearer to the forest, they shall pay 12 pence for every mile; but if the greihound be found within the forest, the master or owner of the dog shall forfeit the dog and ten shillings to the king.

Greyhound (Leporarius - hare-hunter)

See Also