greyhound racing

Greyhound racing is a sport where dogs, specifically greyhounds, race around a track chasing an artificial lure, often called a mechanical hare. This sport evolved from coursing, where dogs hunted by sight rather than scent.1

The first dog racing track opened in California in 1919, and the sport later gained popularity in England and other countries. Races typically involve six to eight greyhounds on a grass track, often held at night. Betting is a significant aspect of the sport, usually conducted through the pari-mutuel system.1

In recent decades, concerns about animal welfare have led to bans on greyhound racing in several U.S. states and other regions.12