Welcome back to another Fun Facts Friday! Last week, we got to know our favorite PBGV Myles – the main character in our upcoming children’s book Go, Myles, Go!
Today, we’re shifting our spotlight to the other side of the track field. In the book, Myles dreams of joining the school track team, but first he has to face the dogs who currently rule the lanes: the Greyhounds.
To celebrate its anticipated release, we’d like to share a sneak peek of our new “Fun Facts” illustration for this noble breed. Plus, share a few interesting tidbits about the canine world’s ultimate speedsters.
1. They Are Built Like Sports Cars
Greyhounds are the aerodynamic masterpieces of the dog world. Every part of their body is engineered for maximum velocity, featuring:
- An aerodynamic narrow head to slice through air resistance.
- A deep chest housing an oversized heart and lungs for massive oxygen intake.
- A highly flexible, hinged spine that acts like a spring to propel them forward.
2. They Are the Second-Fastest Land Animal
Greyhounds are the fastest dogs on Earth, capable of reaching breathtaking speeds of over 35 miles per hour. In a flat-out sprint, the only land animal that can outrun a Greyhound is a cheetah! It’s no wonder they give Myles such a tough challenge at track tryouts.
3. They Race with a “Double Suspension” Gallop
When a Greyhound sprints at full speed, there are two separate moments during a single stride where all four of their paws leave the ground completely. They spend more time flying through the air than they do touching the dirt!
4. They Have Incredible 270-Degree Vision
While humans can only see about 180 degrees around themselves, a Greyhound’s high, side-set eyes grant them a massive 270-degree field of view. They can spot movement up to half a mile away, meaning they can see any competitor trying to sneak up from behind on the track.
5. Off the Track, They Are Total “High Speed Couch Potatoes”
Despite their legendary athletic ability, Greyhounds are famously quiet, gentle, and incredibly lazy at home. They prefer a plush sofa and a long nap over a marathon run any day. They might look intimidatingly intense on the track team, but deep down, they love a good rest!
We hope you’ve enjoyed these fun facts and how author and illustrator, Ashlee Butler, has brought these sleek, speedy racers to life!
Will Myles figure out a way to keep up with the Greyhounds who currently rule the track team? Stay tuned for more updates on Go, Myles, Go!
