greyhound

greyhound breed of tall, swift, sight hound developed nearly 5,000 years ago in Egypt. It stands about 26 in. (66 cm) high at the shoulder and weighs about 65 lb (29.5 kg). Its short, smooth coat may be colored black, white, or various shades of fawn, brindle, blue, or red. Known in England before the 9th cent., the greyhound was bred and raised by the aristocracy. In fact, for approximately 700 years it was illegal under English law for a commoner to own a greyhound. It was used to hunt small game, especially hares, and by the early 19th cent. the coursing of hares had developed into an organized sport. In recent years, with the invention by Owen Patrick Smith of the mechanical rabbit for use on a round or oval track, the racing of greyhounds has grown widely in popularity. See dog .

greyhound Coursing dog traditionally used to hunt hares and also used for racing. It has a long tapered head and muzzle. Its muscular back and well-arched loins are set on long, lean legs. The smooth coat may be almost any colour. Height: 66cm (26in) at the shoulder; weight 29kg (65lb).