The Reign of the Greyhound [Hardcover]

Cynthia A. Branigan (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: January 2, 2004

The regal history of a revered, elegant breed

They were one of the first wild animals to come under the protection of humans. They have sat at the feet of the Pharaohs. Their likenesses have graced coins, stamps, seals, and coats of arms. And they have won the hearts of dog lovers worldwide with their sweet nature, intelligence, and grace.

Beautifully illustrated with more than 100 black-and-white reproductions and photos, The Reign of the Greyhound is a rich, historical testimony to the breed, celebrating its extraordinary place in canine history and human civilization. Passionately written by Greyhound expert Cynthia Branigan, this updated edition features new information on the history and current state of ex-racer adoptions, which save the lives of thousands of Greyhounds each year. From ancient Egypt to modern times, from the temple to the show ring to the track, you'll see how this noble breed has evolved from a royal pet to a racing dog to a loving companion-and you'll no doubt deepen your understanding and appreciation of this fine animal, whose regal history has been too long ignored.

Editorial Reviews

From the Inside Flap

The history of the Greyhound parallels the history of western civilization. Records show the breed has been with us for nearly 8,000 years. The only breed of dog mentioned in the Bible, the Greyhound has inspired poets and artists alike through the millennia, from the works of Homer and Shakespeare to the decoration of the Pharaohs ’ temples to masterpieces of Renaissance art. Today, Greyhounds have been brought into public awareness via the many adoption programs that place ex-racers as pets. Greyhounds who start life as racers now have the opportunity for a second career as cherished members of the family.

Written by well-known and respected Greyhound expert Cynthia Branigan, The Reign of the Greyhound is a highly readable, thoroughly researched history of this noble breed. This updated edition features a new chapter on the current state of ex-racer adoptions, as well as newly unearthed historical information and more spectacular examples of Greyhounds in art throughout the ages.

Full of fascinating facts, historical context, racing lore, and myth debunkers, The Reign of the Greyhound traces the Greyhound’s richly detailed life story, from its ancient origins to the current popularity of owning a former racer as a companion animal. Branigan’s passion for and firsthand knowledge of Greyhounds shines through on every page as she discusses these affectionate, athletic, yet gentle dogs. Branigan introduces us to the many branches of the breed’s family tree, notes the Greyhound’s place in Greek and Roman mythology, and traces the evolution of the Greyhound from sacred companion to racing dog to family pet. You’ll discover how, thanks to the efforts of dedicated, caring people, many ex-racers now have a new leash on life through adoption programs–and why Greyhounds so captivate their owners with their speed, grace, and sensitivity.

Featuring more than 100 striking black-and-white illustrations, including Greyhounds in art, famous Greyhounds, and racing photos from yesteryear, The Reign of the Greyhound is the authoritative, celebratory reference of choice for Greyhound adopters and enthusiasts alike.

From the Back Cover

The regal history of a revered, elegant breed

They were one of the first wild animals to come under the protection of humans. They have sat at the feet of the Pharaohs. Their likenesses have graced coins, stamps, seals, and coats of arms. And they have won the hearts of dog lovers worldwide with their sweet nature, intelligence, and grace.

Beautifully illustrated with more than 100 black-and-white reproductions and photos, The Reign of the Greyhound is a rich, historical testimony to the breed, celebrating its extraordinary place in canine history and human civilization. Passionately written by Greyhound expert Cynthia Branigan, this updated edition features new information on the history and current state of ex-racer adoptions, which save the lives of thousands of Greyhounds each year. From ancient Egypt to modern times, from the temple to the show ring to the track, you’ll see how this noble breed has evolved from a royal pet to a racing dog to a loving companion–and you’ll no doubt deepen your understanding and appreciation of this fine animal, whose regal history has been too long ignored.

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Hardcover: 256 pages
• Publisher: Howell Book House; 2 edition (January 2, 2004)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0764544454
• ISBN-13: 978-0764544453
• Product Dimensions: 9.3 x 6.4 x 0.9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.2 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.9 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (9 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #366,131 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

31 of 31 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars greyhounds' popularity is ancient history!, August 7, 1998

By A Customer

This review is from: The Reign of the Greyhound: A Popular History of the Oldest Family of Dogs (Dog Breed Books) (Hardcover)

I thought I knew all there was to know about my Greyhound until I read this book. In it I learned that my dog's ancestors have been delighting humans for literally thousands of years. The book takes you on a tour of the history of civilization with Greyhounds in the leading role. If only history had been so interesting when I was in school! The artwork is breathtaking, the adoption anecdotes are both hilarious and touching and Cynthia Branigan is obviously both a scholar and a person with a big heart. If you own a Greyhound you owe it to your dog to learn more about his contribution to history.

15 of 15 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A wonderful history of a beautiful breed, February 10, 2004

By 

Marilynn Cherluck (Ferndale, Michigan, USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Reign of the Greyhound (Hardcover)

Being both a sighthound owner and a history buff, I was so delighted to have found this book. I can't recommend it enough.
I can guarantee that if you haven't had experience with sighthounds, you will want to after reading this! For those of us who know the breed, it is a long overdue salute to one of the most overlooked and unappreciated dog breeds in the world.
I especially liked the photos that accompanied the text. It was wonderful to see so many representations of greyhounds through the ages.
I thought that chapter 1, on the Greyhound family, was very informative, and the author managed to put a lot of information that is rarely found all in one place into a very readable and enjoyable format.
Read this book- You'll love it, even if you don't own a Greyhound! I hope that Cynthia Branigan's book helps many many more retired racing Greyhounds find homes with people who learn about them from her book as well.

15 of 15 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars An enjoyable and interesting book., January 8, 1998

By 

C. J. Kues (Loveland, Ohio) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: The Reign of the Greyhound: A Popular History of the Oldest Family of Dogs (Dog Breed Books) (Hardcover)

I was not really interested in the history of greyhounds, but have been contemplating adopting one. I received this book as a gift, and enjoyed it much more than I expected. She makes it interesting with some amazing stories, with some astronomical numbers in some cases. The most interesting part is her own experiences with these dogs. A good read.