How to Train a Greyhound

Contributor

By Eric Letendre
eHow Contributing Writer

Article Rating: (4 Ratings)

A lot of Greyhounds are adopted after they are finished at race tracks around the country. Greyhounds are very sensitive dogs and do not need to be trained with harsh methods. Because of their racing backgrounds, some Greyhounds have a very difficult time doing the sit command. But in any case, by following the steps in this article you'll be able to train your Greyhound and develop a good bond. Greyhounds make great family pets-and with a little training-you'll have a companion for years to come.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Treats
Leash
Collar

Step 1

Develop a bond with your Greyhound. Greyhounds are sensitive, smart dogs. The best and quickest way to develop the bond between you and your Greyhound is comprised of two simple things: playing and feeding.
Step 2

Establish leadership. Like all dogs, Greyhounds respond to leadership. This is done by following the P.E.G.S. method. Playing, eating, grooming and sleeping make up your dog's behavior. Control each of these activities and you control your dog.
Step 3

Once the bond and leadership has been established between you and your Greyhound, you can start obedience training. Obedience training should be done using reward-based training. Getting harsh with a Greyhound will only intimidate and frighten the dog. You'll get much better results being patient and using positive reinforcement.
Step 4

The six basic commands to teach are: sit, down, stand, stay, heel and come. As I stated previously, the sit command is difficult for some Greyhounds. Some Greyhounds' leg muscles are so developed that they can't do the sit command. If your Greyhound can't sit, use the stand command instead.
Step 5

Provide plenty of mental stimulation for your Greyhound. Effective activities in addition to obedience training are buster cubes and stuffed Kong toys. Without mental stimulation your Greyhound could develop behavior problems.
Step 6

Provide plenty of physical exercise for your Greyhound. Greyhounds need to get regular exercise. Running, walking, hiking and playing with other dogs are all great ways to give your Greyhound exercise.

Comments

lacefullone said

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on 3/17/2009 Greyhounds can be taught to do so much and respond so well to positive reinforcement :) My boy does sit, stay, bow, fetch, get in your bed, and- the best one- 'Find mommy's keys!!!' There is even a greyhound here in Tucson that is an assistance dog. This is a great article because it adresses the positive reinforcement, and the leadership issue.Many people think you can yell at these guys and they will do what you want them to do! They have already had a hard life, and respond so well to positive encouragement. Great article- Greyhounds RULE!!!