To see a greyhound run circles around your shed out back is a site to behold. (So is the path it leaves in your yard, but that's another hub on landscaping and yard care.) If you've watch television cartoon where animals race in circles - like the RoadRunner or Tasmanian Devil, that circular motion is nearly equivalent to what you get with the running patterns of greyhounds. No holds barred, they run full speed ahead, for endless hours - and LOVE it!

Here are other interesting tidbits about Greyhounds:

- Greyhounds are members of the Hound Group, per the American Kennel Club. They are classed as large, and are tough guys, all muscle, with long, sleek legs & graceful tails, narrow bodies, beautiful dark eyes, any body coloring (unlike many other breeds). Note they are not high energy, surprisingly.

- Greyhounds need plenty of nutritious, top quality dog food for healthy maintenance of their bodies. Note that to avoid bloating, do not allow for overeating, instead opting for smaller servings at meal times. Seek help and advice from your vet.

- Grooming is a must for your Greyhound. Simple needs for short hair require little dog grooming supplies so check with your vet or a local pet store for help as needed in choosing them. Brush and nail trimmers are essential.

- Greyhounds first came to light in ancient Egypt and helped with hunting.

- When Greyhounds arrived in England and grew in popularity with the British nobles, they were used in races.

- These dogs then were introduced to America and races were started there.

- Unfortunately since many people take advantage of how fast Greyhounds can run and race them to catch mechanical rabbits, they also have the bad habit of terminating them once they lose too many times. The good news, though, is that there are Greyhound Rescues who help with rehab after racing careers. These wonderful folks help retrain the dogs to be like normal domestic dogs and help find suitable, loving homes for them.

- People interested in owning a Greyhound should have plenty of running room in the back (or other) yard. Otherwise regular walks will be in order.

- Greyhounds are actually very people - friendly, enjoying time with the fam and snuggling on the couch, etc. Note, though, that although they do enjoy other dogs and enjoy being with people, watch for "fast" small moving ...anything that can be like "prey" to them. Their automatic chasing could kick into high gear.

Overall, any experience with a greyhound can seem intense at first. They are not trained to go outside for the pottying needs. So you'll need to work on this issue.

By being patient, loving and gentle, time can heal past racing wounds. And your family can enjoy a wonderful pet.