Greyhounds only need two or three 20 minute walks a day, although they will enjoy longer walks if you wish. They don't like rain though (who does?) and in summer they get heat stroke very easily, so please plan exercise accordingly.

Break them into busy shopping areas gently, again these outings are very new to them, although our dog Dennis was beside himself with joy on his first time in Stratford's high street.....he loves to window shop. Set up new outings to socialise them, if they like it, fine, if not retreat and try again in a day or so. Aim to make new experiences nice so they build up all the right associations. No dog homed by the trust can be kept outdoors, raced or used for profit, as per the homing agreement you will be asked to sign when you collect the dog.

Greyhounds are very gentle on the lead, responsive to your movements and direction. However, squirrels, cats, rabbits etc. can trigger their chase instinct and if they set off at 50 kph in pursuit you could be in trouble. Don't worry too much, it sounds far worse than it is, most just prick up their ears, prance like Bambi and strain on the lead until whatever interests them is out of sight. Whatever you do don't run with them, you can't keep up and they will be deaf to commands if really interested.

'Keen' is the racing word that describes the level of reaction to chase stimuli, most dogs quickly loose their keenness as they settle down to family life. Please make it clear to them though that you don't wish them to react any more. It is not a good idea to encourage them to chase squirrels/cats - injury usually follows whether they catch their prey or not.

The dog should have an identity disc, be regularly wormed and vaccinated. It is also advisable that you take out pet insurance.