The Victorian Government’s Code of Practice for the Keeping of Racing Greyhounds (the Code) requires that greyhounds go through a documented race education and preparation program before they race, as outlined in the Establishment Health Management Plan (EHMP) in place at the property where they are housed. In addition to the chasing, race training familiarisation, nutrition and fitness development activities engaged, the EHMP also includes age appropriate handling, socialization, exercise and grooming activities.
See our Welfare off the track fact sheet for further information on EHMPs and requirements under the Code.
The instinct to chase is developed from early puppyhood via free and structured play with toys, balls and synthetic lures, with the intensive formal race education process occurring around 12-16 months of age. During this time, greyhounds undergo specific training to learn how to enter and exit starting boxes and chase a mechanical lure on a sand track. At the end of this 4–6 week process, an assessment is made to determine the future potential and suitability of the greyhound for life on the track, with most undergoing a ‘spell’ to refresh before commencing pre-training.
During pre-training, the greyhound transfers to a racing kennel for racing preparation. This process typically includes specific exercises to build fitness, strength, and stamina, a race diet, regular vet checks and regular trialling on racetracks both on their own and against other greyhounds.
The pre-training phase often takes upwards of 10 weeks before the greyhound is ready to compete at an official greyhound race meeting.
The race education and training program outlined in the EHMP aims to prepare racing greyhounds with the necessary skills, fitness, and preparation for competitive racing.
