Description
The Whippet looks like a small greyhound. He is graceful and slender, but actually quite hardy. The fine dense coat comes in many colors: brindle, black, red, fawn, triggered white or slate blue, either solid-colored or mixed. The muzzle is long and slender and the overall impression is one of streamlined elegance. This miniature-looking greyhound has small rose-shaped ears, an elegantly arched neck, a deep chest, and its back is long and broad. The abdomen is retracted, and the tail is pointed.
Temperament
Loyal and loving, the Whippet makes for better companion. When its hunting roots set in, Whippet never gets tired in pursuing its prey, imminently displaying its true athletic form. This breed is also not suitable to the life outside its home because it will definitely find it hard to adapt to the kennel life. As it was in the past, it makes for an excellent competitor in racing. Its skills can be trained further with the right amount of patience and passion. The Whippet is intelligent, lively, affectionate, sweet, and docile. This very devoted companion is quiet and calm in the home. This breed should never be roughly trained, for they are extremely sensitive both physically and mentally. Be sure to introduce plenty of variety when training this breed. The best results will be achieved by including games and running but remember, although they are very intelligent and will learn quickly, you will never achieve "perfect" obedience from this breed due to their independent nature. They are good with children of all ages as long as the children do not roughhouse or tease the dog. Whippets are clean, virtually odor free, easy to care for and easy to travel with. They are good watchdogs and may be reserved with strangers. They will pursue and kill cats and other small animals if given the opportunity, but are good with other dogs. Household cats that they are raised with and have become accustom to will be left along. They can be used to hunt. The Whippet's sweet personality makes him a fine companion dog. The Whippet is the ultimate sprinter, unsurpassed by any other breed in its ability to accelerate to top speed and to twist and turn with matchless dexterity. Some can be difficult to housebreak while others housebreak quickly.
Height, Weight
Height: Dogs 19-22 inches (47-56 cm.) Bitches 18-21 inches (44-54 cm.)
Weight: Dogs 25-45 pounds (11-21 kg.)
Health Problems
Prone to stomach upset and skin problems.
Living Conditions
This breed is sensitive to the cold. Wearing a coat is advised in the winter. They will do okay in an apartment if they are sufficiently exercised. Whippets are calm indoors and a small yard will do.
Exercise
The Whippet kept as a pet should have regular opportunities to run free on open ground (in a safe area) as well as a brisk daily walk on a leash. They are sighthound and will chase and kill small animals so a fenced yard is essential.
Life Expectancy
About 12-15 years.
Grooming
The Whippet's smooth, fine, short-haired coat is easy to groom. A regular rub all over with a damp chamois will keep the coat gleaming. Brush with a firm bristlebrush, and bathe only when necessary. The coat of the Whippet is virtually free of "doggie odor." This breed is an average shedder.
Origin
The Whippet was developed at the end of the 19th century through crossing among the Greyhound, the Italian Greyhound, and the Terrier. Its name derives from the expression "whip it" meaning to move quickly. The Whippet is an outstanding track racer over short distances reaching speeds of up to 37 miles per hour (60km. per hour) - in seconds! Coursing these dogs was an entertaining form of gambling for the lower classes in England. Some of the Whippet's talents include: hunting, sighting, watchdogging, racing, agility, and lure coursing.
Group
Southern, AKC Hound
