Seeking simplicity in the world of betting and tired of navigating complex rules and intricate markets? Look no further than greyhound betting – your confident choice. What was once an exclusive pastime for the affluent has transformed into a worldwide sensation. There’s an undeniable allure in witnessing these magnificent, powerful hounds attain astonishing speeds. Plus, for those who dive in headfirst, the potential for substantial earnings awaits.
The OddsHome team proudly presents a comprehensive guide to greyhound betting, ensuring you’re well-prepared for the world of wagering. With thorough coverage of everything from rules and terminology to the most renowned cups and derbies, consider yourself fully equipped for success.
Understanding the Rules
Greyhounds betting, in terms of rules, is refreshingly straightforward. Typically, a greyhound race features anywhere from 2 to 8 runners, although in the UK, you’ll consistently find precisely 6 contenders. This format predominates due to the concentration of popular racetracks in this region. Now, let’s dive confidently into the essential rules:
Each greyhound begins in its cage, known as the greyhound trap. Prior to the race, they’re securely placed in their traps, with doors remotely opened. As the race commences, all trap doors swing open simultaneously, either manually or via remote control, launching the hounds into action.
But how do race organizers ignite the dogs’ competitive spirit? The answer lies in a mechanical hare, serving as a lure. This hare travels along a fixed path at a speed unattainable by the racing dogs.
As the track takes an oval shape, featuring four bends and four straights in most major competitions, there’s a notion that dogs starting closer to the rails enjoy a slight advantage. However, it’s equally crucial to consider the dogs’ preferences – some are railers (R), while others favor the middle (M) or wider (W) tracks.
The ultimate victor is the dog that crosses the finish line first. While it may seem obvious, the key lies not in the initial sprint but in maintaining speed consistently throughout the race.
Strict anti-doping measures are in place, prohibiting performance-enhancing substances. Dogs undergo thorough pre-race and random testing throughout the year. Stringent regulations ensure the well-being of these noble creatures, with regular inspections of their living conditions to safeguard their mental and physical health.
Predicting the participating dogs in a race, especially several weeks in advance, remains a complex task. Consider the 2016 Irish Greyhound Derby, where over 80 dogs were initially listed as competitors. Naturally, accommodating so many in six traps isn’t feasible. Hence, owners and race organizers select contenders based on subjective and arbitrary conditions and factors.
Herein lies the beauty of online greyhound betting – simplicity at its finest. No convoluted tactics, obscure rules, or excessive regulations. Just a lineup of magnificent dogs, and your mission is to predict the winner (or explore other markets).
While this covers the core rules, keep in mind that individual racetracks and regulatory bodies may introduce their own variations. So, before embarking on your greyhound betting adventure, ensure a firm grasp of the specific track requirements and expectations for both the hounds and their owners. Confidence is your key to success in this exhilarating world.
Basic Terms
While grasping the fundamentals of greyhound racing takes just a few moments, the sport comes with its share of unique terminology. Familiarizing yourself with these terms is crucial for more effective betting. We’ve compiled this essential glossary after scouring top greyhound bookies and forums. Here’s your straightforward guide to understanding the terminology in races featuring our beloved canine companions:
- Open race: A race with no clear favorites or underdogs, offering the potential for higher odds. Please note that open races are quite rare.
- Box: An alternate term for trap or cage, although infrequently used.
- Box bias: A common misconception among punters. Just because a greyhound starts in a box closest to the rails doesn’t guarantee victory. Dogs have individual preferences for their running position, regardless of their starting box.
- Puppy: A term frequently encountered in the best greyhound betting strategies. It refers to dogs younger than two years old. Keep in mind that hounds can race only after reaching 15 months of age, so puppies often enter races as favorites.
- Shortened odds: When odds change due to factors like injury or rumors of a dog overperforming, bookmakers reduce the odds. For example, if a hound initially has odds of 10/1 and they decrease to 8/1, they are considered to have shortened odds.
- Pricing: The act of assigning odds to a greyhound. Low-priced dogs are considered favorites, while high-priced dogs are seen as underdogs.
- Jolly: The dog with the shortest or lowest odds, essentially the favorite in a race.
- Overlay: When oddsmakers miscalculate and price a dog higher than it should be, it’s called an overlay. This is a dream scenario for greyhound betting enthusiasts.
- Ante-post betting: Betting on races scheduled weeks or months in advance to build excitement. It’s akin to the “future” market in other sports. Keep in mind that this carries risks, as dogs can drop out or get injured, so staying updated with news is essential for safety.
Where to Find Greyhounds Betting Websites?
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18+. New players only. Welcome Bonus!
18+. New players only. Welcome Bonus!
Get up to:
100 Free Bets
1 for every $1 deposit
1 Free Bet credited for every $1 deposit. Up to 100 Free Bets valued at $0.20 each on Book.
18+. New players only. Welcome Bonus - Place 4 x €/$/£10 or more bets to receive €/$/£25 in free bets. This bonus only applies for deposits of €/$/£10 or higher! All you need to do is just deposit the money in your website.com account and you will receive this bonus instantly!
Get up to:
50 Free Bets
1 for every $1 deposit
1 Free Bet credited for every $1 deposit. Up to 50 Free Bets valued at $0.10 each on Book.
18+. New players only. Welcome Bonus - Place 3 x €/$/£30 or more bets to receive €/$/£35 in free bets. This bonus only applies for deposits of €/$/£30 or higher!
18+. New players only.
You’ve asked the right question! Rest assured, we have the perfect solution – our meticulously curated list of the premier bookmakers for greyhound betting. This isn’t just a random collection of our preferences; it’s the outcome of months of extensive research, hundreds of bets, and numerous rewarding bonuses and exciting experiences. If you’re venturing into the world of online dog betting, these are the definitive choices. Plus, it’s essential to note that they all operate completely within the bounds of the law. So, get ready for a fantastic time and let the good fortune be on your side!
Which Are the Most Popular Competitions?
Greyhound races take place worldwide throughout the year, but not all events carry the same significance. OddsHome recommends focusing your attention on the most prominent ones. These competitions garner substantial media coverage and provide easy access to news updates. By concentrating on these select races in your greyhound betting strategy, you’ll streamline your experience while enjoying the finest in the sport. Here are the key events to incorporate into your greyhound betting system for an entertaining (and potentially profitable) time:
- English Greyhound Derby: Dating back to 1927, this derby is one of the calendar’s most prestigious races. What sets it apart is that only four dogs have achieved victory twice, ensuring thrilling competition. If you’re seeking greyhound betting opportunities with favorable odds and a realistic shot at winning, this is the event to focus on.
- Irish Greyhound Derby: This massive event unfolds annually at Shelbourne Park, just outside Dublin. The competition’s history boasts remarkable achievements, with Spanish Battleship securing the crown three times and Ger McKenna emerging as the top trainer with five wins during the 60s and 70s. Irish greyhound derby betting can be intense, so prepare to invest time and attention to navigate it successfully.
- Scottish Greyhound Derby: A fixture in the European greyhound betting scene, this race has never seen a dog win it more than once. It’s known for its relatively predictable outcomes, with few major upsets. In recent memory, Hot Pipe’s triumph with 25-1 odds in 2016 stands out as a notable underdog victory.
- East Anglian Cup: Charles Lister, a legend in English Derby domination, also boasts an impressive 12 victories in this competition over 27 years.
- Association Cup: As the only Group 1 staying race in New South Wales, the Association Cup draws substantial crowds annually. With a challenging 720-meter course, it’s tailor-made for older dogs and marathon runners.
- Sandown Cup: Bold Trease’s unprecedented four consecutive wins make this event stand out. It’s also the world’s most lucrative greyhound race, offering a purse of $250,000. Sweet, It Is, secured back-to-back victories in 2014 and 2015.
- Melbourne Cup: Unlike most other events, the Melbourne Cup unfolds as a series of races, making it a true spectacle for greyhound betting enthusiasts. With a substantial purse and a balanced field, it consistently delivers a mix of longshot surprises and dark horse triumphs.
Short History and Facts
Greyhound racing traces its roots back to coursing, with these majestic dogs serving as loyal hunting companions for generations of noblemen in post-Middle Ages Britain. Over time, a brilliant idea emerged – why not turn this age-old pastime into a thrilling sport? And so, they began releasing hares and setting multiple hounds in pursuit, a spectacle to determine the fastest among them.
The dawn of modern greyhound racing arrived in 1920, thanks to Owen Patrick Smith’s invention of the mechanical hare. This innovation standardized the races, giving all dogs a uniform objective. The sport reached its zenith in the 1950s and 60s, captivating tens of millions of live viewers each year. While it experienced a decline in subsequent years, the resurgence of online greyhound betting and the availability of free tips have rekindled its prominence, placing it firmly back in the spotlight.
Final Thoughts
Why wouldn’t you love greyhound betting? It’s not only incredibly straightforward but also offers the thrill of watching these awe-inspiring animals race at breathtaking speeds. Before diving into your bets, take some time to enjoy a few races and choose a reputable bookmaker. Once you’ve done that, establish a solid betting system, and you’re on your way to achieving some impressive results. Best of luck!
FAQ
How to Bet on Greyhounds and Win?
Winning at greyhound betting is within your reach. Start by selecting a reputable greyhound betting site, manage your budget wisely, avoid overly risky bets, and you’ll find yourself consistently on the winning side.
How Should I Use the Two-Trap Betting System?
The Two-Trap system can be a valuable tool, but it’s not your sole guide. Always begin by studying the statistics and race details before consulting the TT system to ensure you’re on the right track.
Is Greyhound Racing Profitable?
Absolutely, greyhound racing can be profitable if you make informed choices and select the right markets to bet on.
Is the Dog’s Trap Essential in Greyhound Betting?
Contrary to popular belief, the starting trap doesn’t hold the key to success. Dogs have their preferences for running on specific parts of the track, and they’ll naturally gravitate towards those areas. The trap’s placement is not a critical factor. Don’t be swayed by the myth of “box bias.”
Is Ante-Post Betting a Good Idea?
Ante-post betting can be a thrilling option if you have some extra funds and a dose of luck. However, it’s not intended to be the foundation of your betting strategy.
Wait, Isn’t Greyhound Racing Illegal?
While some countries and jurisdictions have banned physical greyhound races, they often permit bets to be placed on races taking place elsewhere. Always check your local laws for clarification.
Who Is the Fastest Greyhound of All Time?
Singling out a single fastest greyhound is challenging, but many enthusiasts hold Rapid Ranger, Patricia’s Hope, and Ballyregan Bob in high regard as contenders for this esteemed title.
