How does Being a Male or Female Greyhound Affect the Dog Race?

 It is crucial to know whether a greyhound is a female or male while predicting the outcome of the dog races. The reason is it indicates the consistency of the performance. In most races worldwide, male and female dogs compete against each other at different grades and distances. Male dogs are more consistent while racing and best suited to sprint and middle distances. However, there are exceptions to the rule. 

 Female Maitland Greyhounds, on the other hand, are harder to train because the race schedules are continually interrupted when a female dog goes into season. It is withdrawn from all racing activities for at least 21 days or till the track veterinary surgeon gives the go-ahead. Mostly, they will be “off the track” for 8-10 weeks. 

 

Does Knowing a Seasonal Date Help?

 

Knowing the “season date” gives a clue about the fitness level. Most female Maitland greyhounds that return from a seasonal rest will be a bit “race rusty” because of the lacrosse (a sugary substance in milk) build-up in the systems. Thus, they will be carrying a little bit of extra weight. However, after a few trials, these female dogs will return to their peak form – their running styles will improve, they will have faster sectionals and improvement in the race times and more. 

 

The perfect time for a female greyhound to approach peak fitness is 16 weeks from the session. Yes, female greyhounds win races sooner, sometimes at 14 weeks, while others might be slower to reach the peak and take up a long time to get back to their form, almost 18-24 weeks. When the female dogs perform better, they perform well for multiple weeks and can continue to improve. They follow their natural cycle. 

 

Sometimes the Maitland greyhound trainers administer suppressants to female dogs to delay a season from happening. This helps them to continue to race “on the track” instead of being side-lined for a long time because of enforced seasonal rest.