When his girlfriend Misty came to stay, I took Sox and Misty to Christchurch’s red zone for off-lead time.

In this video, the dogs run and play. Greyhounds love to run. In this video, both dogs are free to stop, change direction, dodge and weave as they see fit, and stop when they are ready. This greatly reduces the risk of injury and supports enrichment. It allows them to make choices, something that behaviourists call ‘agency.’

The definition of “to run” is “to move along, faster than walking.” The dogs choose to do this and for how often.

The definition of “to race” is “a competition between runners, horses, vehicles, etc. to see which is the fastest in covering a set course.”

Most dogs love to have a run and play, such as I explain in my post There’s a technical term for almost anything – the zoomie. To truly love to race, a sentient being, be it human or animal, must be able to opt into competition of their own free will and take pleasure in it.

Kathleen Crisley, Fear-Free certified professional and specialist in dog massage, rehabilitation and canine fitness,  The Balanced Dog, Christchurch, New Zealand.