How To Bet On Greyhounds With Bookmaker

All greyhound tracks in Ireland offer you the ability to back your chosen dog with an on-course bookmaker. Backing a greyhound with a bookmaker is a very simple process, which we will outline below.

1) Locate the bookmakers

The bookmakers (or bookies) are usually located in front of the main stand at the track. They will usually be operating on an elevated position with a board listing the prices of the dogs in the upcoming race. The dogs will be listed according to their trap numbers, 1-6. So take note of what trap number your chosen dog is in.

2) Find the best price

As the bookmakers are competing with each other to get your business the prices of the dogs should vary from board to board. The price will be displayed in fractional format (e.g. 2/1) so check the boards for the best price available on your dog.

3) Placing your bet

To place a bet approach the bookmaker displaying the best price and state the amount of your bet, the type of bet (usually a win bet) and trap number of the dog. E.g. If you would like to put a €10 bet on the dog in Trap 2 to win the race, you would approach your chosen bookmaker and clearly state “€10 Win Trap 2”. You then give him your €10 and he will give you a numbered ticket in exchange. Keep this ticket safe as this is your proof of the bet being placed.

4) When to place the bet

A bet can be placed at any time after the previous race has finished but before the next race starts. Most of the serious betting action takes place in final few seconds before the race starts so if you want to avoid the crowd it might be advisable to get your bet on early and then get yourself a good vantage point to watch the race. As you become more familiar with the process of placing a bet you can leave it later to place your bet. There are advantages to leaving it late as you will often get better prices from the bookmakers.

5) Collecting your winnings

If you are lucky enough to back a winner then you can collect your winnings from the bookmaker once the result of the race has been confirmed by the stadium announcer. It is worth remembering that unlike the tote, you will be paid out at the price your dog was when the bet was struck, so for example if you back a dog at 3/1 but by the time the race started he is 2/1 you still get paid your winnings at a price of 3/1.