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One of the world's swiftest dogs and probably one of the most ancient breeds, the Greyhound has lived among us 4,000 to 7,000 years. Valued as a hunter of stag, gazelle, fox and hare, the breed originated in Egypt, and even before the advent of Christianity had been taken by traders throughout Europe, to the Orient and to Britain. There, the dogs were bartered or presented as gifts by visiting noblemen. When hare coursing was introduced as a sport in Britain in the 16th century, the Greyhound was a natural participant. Later, when dog racing became a popular spectator sport in various countries around the world, the Greyhound, capable of speeds in excess of 40 mph, was in its element. A strong breed with a smoothly elegant outline, males measure up to 30 inches at the shoulder and weigh from 65 to 70 pounds. Females may be somewhat smaller. Despite their size, Greyhounds fit well into almost any home, asking only a soft spot to call their own. The fine, close coat may be any color and needs only a weekly rubdown with a hound glove to keep it gleaming and free of dead hair. Alert, responsive and somewhat sensitive, Greyhounds make clean family pets but don't usually excel as watchdogs because they are so quiet. Usually, the only notice they give of people approaching the home is upraised ears. They respond well to gentle, consistent training and have been known to learn quickly. Like most hounds, though, they often ignore commands they're not interested in obeying. Adult Greyhounds need regular outdoor exercise, but don't overdo it with growing puppies. After the age of 15 months, a weekly gallop is good for your Greyhound. Other than that, a daily walk will keep this speedster satisfied.

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