The hunting season is just around the corner, and for those who hunt with greyhounds, that means one thing: it’s time to get your fastest companion in the field ready.
fter the summer break, it is essential that your greyhound regains its physical and mental fitness to successfully tackle a new season.
Just as hunters tune their weapons and check their equipment, they must also prepare their dogs to be in top form, minimising the risk of injury and improving their performance. Here are some essential tips to help you achieve this.
Nutrition: the basis of their energy
During the summer, many greyhounds reduce their activity levels and, therefore, their nutritional needs change. Now that training and days in the field are back, it is time to adapt their diet so that they can get back into shape without any risks.
Choose a high-quality feed with a good animal protein content and adjust the portion size according to the amount of exercise they are doing. It is preferable to divide their food into two daily meals to aid digestion, and not to feed them just before or after exercise.
Also, make sure they always have clean, fresh water available, especially on the hottest days at the start of the season.
Progressive and consistent training
Greyhounds need to regain their physical fitness and speed, but doing so suddenly can be counterproductive. The ideal approach is to start with gentle walks and light jogging, gradually increasing the intensity and duration of the sessions. Remember that every dog has its own pace, and pushing them too hard can cause muscle or joint injuries.
A good training routine should include:
- Daily outings with controlled free running.
- Changes of pace, simulating real hunting conditions.
- Games or throwing lures to reactivate their instincts and reflexes.
Veterinary check-up and parasite control
Before the season starts, it is a good idea to visit the vet for a general check-up: to check their physical condition, weight, teeth, nails and, above all, to make sure they are free of parasites.
Pay special attention to ticks and fleas, which are very common in rural areas. To reduce the risk, you can use anti-parasite collars or topical products, but it is also essential to wear protective clothing for yourself and specific accessories for your pet.
Take care of their paws and protect their rest
A greyhound’s paws are its main tool. Hard ground, stones or thorns can cause injuries or discomfort. Check their paw pads at the end of each outing and apply regenerative balms if necessary. It is also important that they have a comfortable, dry place to rest, especially after intense training sessions.
Strengthen the bond: essential for hunting as a team
It’s not all about physical fitness: the connection between hunter and dog makes all the difference in the field. Spend time working on obedience, rewarding good behaviour and building trust. A motivated, confident and psychologically balanced greyhound will be much more effective and enjoy the work more.
Preparing your greyhound for the hunting season is a process that requires time, attention and consistency. A good diet, progressive training, regular check-ups and, above all, lots of love are the key to ensuring they perform at their best without putting their health at risk.
Because hunting with greyhounds is more than just a sport: it is a relationship of respect and companionship between the hunter and their best ally.
