Whippet

The Whippet is a medium-sized breed that closely resembles a smaller version of the Greyhound.

They are known for their speed and agility, as well as their affectionate and loyal personality.

Whippet Breed overview

Whippets are gentle and affectionate dogs that make great family pets. They enjoy spending time with their owners, whether engaged in active play or cuddling on the couch. They are adaptable and can do well in a variety of living situations, though they do require daily exercise and mental stimulation. Whippets are generally good with kids, other dogs, and pets, but may be reserved around strangers. They are easy to maintain and groom, with a short, smooth coat that requires minimal upkeep. While they can be sensitive and independent thinkers, their eager-to-please nature and moderate trainability make them a good choice for novice or experienced dog owners alike.

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What To Expect When Caring For a Whippet

Exercise

Whippets are an active breed and require plenty of exercise to stay healthy and happy.

A daily walk or run, as well as opportunities to run and play off-leash in a safe and secure area, are important for their physical and mental wellbeing.

Whippets excel in dog sports such as lure coursing and agility.

Training

Whippets are intelligent and trainable, but may be stubborn at times.

Positive reinforcement methods and plenty of patience are important when training a Whippet.

Early socialization and training are essential for preventing behavior problems later in life.

Health

Whippets are generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they may be prone to certain health conditions such as hip dysplasia and eye problems.

Regular veterinary check-ups and good nutrition are important for maintaining the health of your Whippet.

It is also important to keep up with regular vaccinations and preventative care, such as flea and tick prevention.

Grooming

Whippets have a short, smooth coat that requires minimal grooming.

Occasional brushing or wiping with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep them looking their best.

Whippets do shed, but not excessively. Regular brushing can help minimize shedding.

Nutrition

Whippets have a high metabolism and require a diet that is rich in protein and fat.

High-quality, balanced commercial dog food is usually sufficient to meet their nutritional needs.

It is important to feed your Whippet in appropriate portion sizes to prevent obesity.

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Whippet Traits & Characteristics

Whippets typically stand between 18 and 22 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 25 and 45 pounds.

They have a short, smooth coat that can be a variety of colors, including brindle, fawn, and white with black or brindle markings.

The breed is known for their long, slender legs and sleek, athletic body.

Affection

The degree to which a breed shows love and affection towards its human family members.

independent lovey-dovey

The Whippets are very affectionate and devoted to their owners. They love being a part of a family and tend to gravitate toward one particular person. They are known for being very attached to their human companions and like to spend as much time with them as possible.

Children

How well a breed interacts with children, including tolerance for play and energy level.

not suitable for kids great with kids

Whippets are generally very good with children due to their gentle nature, calm temperament, and playful personality. They can be great playmates for kids, but should be supervised around young children due to their small size and fragility.

Dogs

The breed's friendliness and sociability towards other dogs.

not dog friendly very dog friendly

Whippets are known for their friendly and sociable nature. They generally get along well with other dogs, but may be a bit reserved with strangers. Introducing them to other dogs at a young age is key in ensuring a well-socialized and happy pooch.

Strangers

The breed's reaction to unfamiliar people, including whether they tend to be wary or friendly.

reserved with strangers friendly with everyone

Whippets are generally reserved with strangers, but they are not aggressive. Socialization and exposure to a variety of people and situations is key in developing a well-balanced and confident pup.

Playfulness

The breed's activity level and tendency to engage in play and games.

laid-back very playful

Whippets are playful and enjoy a good game. They can have bursts of energy and like to play with toys and run around outdoors. They can also be content curling up on the couch for a good snuggle.

Alertness

The breed's level of awareness and vigilance, which can affect their ability to perform certain tasks or jobs

less alert very alert

Whippets are generally very alert and perceptive. They can make great watchdogs and will let you know if something is amiss. They are also known for their speed and agility, making them great candidates for canine sports like lure coursing.

Adaptability

The breed's ability to adjust to new environments and situations, including whether they are adaptable or may become stressed.

less adaptable very adaptable

Whippets are adaptable and can do well in both city and country living. They typically require moderate exercise and are happy spending time with their owner indoors or outdoors.

Shedding

The amount of hair a breed sheds, which can affect allergies and cleanliness.

no shedding hair everywhere

Whippets have a short and easy-to-maintain coat, which sheds moderately. Routine brushing will help minimize shedding, but they are not hypoallergenic. Keep in mind that Whippets can be sensitive to cold weather, so consider a coat if living in colder climates.

Grooming

The amount of maintenance required to keep a breed's coat healthy and clean.

low maintenance high maintenance

Whippets have a short and easy-to-maintain coat, which needs minimal grooming. They typically require only occasional bathing and brushing to maintain a healthy coat. Whippets may have sensitive skin, so it's important to avoid over-bathing or using harsh shampoos.

Drooling

The amount of saliva a breed produces, which can affect cleanliness and potential drool-related issues.

dry mouthed heavy drooler

Whippets are not prone to drooling and are considered to have a dry mouth. This can make them a good choice for those who don't want a slobbery pooch.

Size

The breed's overall size, including their weight and height.

very small very large

Whippets are considered a medium-sized breed, weighing between 25-45 pounds and standing at around 18-22 inches tall at the shoulder.

Energy

The breed's overall activity level, including their need for exercise and play.

couch potato high energy

Whippets have a moderate energy level and can do well in homes with a small backyard or apartment setting. Daily exercise is important for overall health and happiness, and they enjoy walks and runs, but also like to have a good nap.

Exercise

The breed's need for physical activity and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

low exercise needs high exercise needs

Whippets have a moderate exercise requirement, and do well with daily walks and playtime. They love a good run, but should always be kept on a leash or in a securely fenced area.

Working

The breed's suitability for working and performing certain tasks or jobs.

not suitable for working great for working

Whippets are not typically used for working or performing specific jobs, but they can excel in sports like lure coursing and agility.

Hunting

The breed's natural hunting abilities, including their prey drive, scenting abilities, and tracking skills.

not suitable for hunting great for hunting

Whippets were originally bred for hunting small game, and still maintain some of their natural hunting abilities like a high prey drive and excellent sight. Care should be taken to prevent them from running off to chase small animals.

Vigor

The breed's physical stamina and endurance, including their ability to maintain high levels of activity and energy.

low-drive high vigor

Whippets have a moderate physical stamina level. They enjoy moderate to high levels of activity, but can also be content lounging around the home with their owners.

Health

The breed's overall health and potential health issues, including whether they may be prone to certain illnesses or conditions.

less healthy very healthy

Whippets are generally a healthy breed and not prone to many genetic health issues. However, they are known to develop heart disease and eye problems, so it's important to have regular vet check-ups.

Obesity

The breed's tendency to gain weight and become overweight or obese, including whether they require extra monitoring and exercise.

not prone to obesity highly prone to obesity

Whippets are moderate eaters and can be prone to obesity if overfed or not exercised enough. Regular exercise and portion control are key in maintaining a healthy weight.

Cold

The breed's ability to tolerate cold weather conditions, including whether they require extra warmth and protection.

not cold tolerant high cold tolerance

Whippets are not highly tolerant to cold weather due to their short and thin coat. They should be provided with a warm and cozy coat to wear in colder climates.

Heat

The breed's ability to tolerate hot weather conditions, including whether they require extra cooling and protection.

not heat tolerant high heat tolerance

Whippets are able to tolerate warm weather, but care should be taken to prevent overheating. Access to shade and water is essential, and exercise should be limited during the hottest parts of the day.

Apartment

The breed's suitability for new or inexperienced dog owners, including their trainability and temperament.

not suitable for apartments great for apartments

Whippets are considered a great breed for apartment living due to their moderate size and energy level. They typically require daily exercise but can be content lounging around at home with their owners.

Wanderlust

The breed's tendency to wander or roam, including whether they may become lost or require a lot of supervision.

less likely to wander very likely to wander

Whippets have a moderate wanderlust tendency, especially if they catch a glimpse of something interesting. It's important to always keep them on a leash or in a securely fenced area when outside.

Sensitivity

The breed's sensitivity to criticism or negative reinforcement, including whether they may become stressed or anxious.

less sensitive very sensitive

Whippets can be sensitive to harsh correction or negative reinforcement, so it's important to use positive reinforcement methods during training. They can also be sensitive to cold weather and require a coat or sweater when outside in colder temperatures.

Separation

The breed's tolerance for being left alone, including whether they may become anxious or destructive.

not suitable for alone time great at being alone

Whippets can tolerate being left alone for moderate periods of time, but may become anxious or bored if left alone for too long. It's important to provide them with plenty of toys and mental stimulation to keep them happy while their owners are away.

Barking

The amount of barking a breed tends to do, including whether they may be vocal or prone to excessive barking.

quiet very vocal

Whippets are generally not excessive barkers, but they may bark at unfamiliar sounds or visitors. Some Whippets may even be on the quieter side and tend to bark infrequently.

Mental

The breed's need for mental stimulation and engagement, including whether they are intelligent and require challenging activities.

happy to lounge needs a job or activity

Whippets are intelligent and enjoy a variety of activities to keep them mentally stimulated. Puzzle toys, obedience training, and agility courses can all provide mental stimulation while also bonding with their owner.

Novice_owners

Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.

not suitable for novice owners great for novice owners

Whippets can make great pets for novice owners due to their adaptable and easy-going nature. However, they may require patience and consistency during training, especially with housetraining and leash manners.

Trainability

The ease of training a breed, including whether they are intelligent, obedient, and willing to learn.

difficult to train easy to train

Whippets are generally intelligent and eager to please, but can be independent thinkers. They may require patience and consistency during training, as they can be sensitive to harsh correction. Positive reinforcement methods tend to work well with this breed.

Affection

independent lovey-dovey

The degree to which a breed shows love and affection towards its human family members.

The Whippets are very affectionate and devoted to their owners. They love being a part of a family and tend to gravitate toward one particular person. They are known for being very attached to their human companions and like to spend as much time with them as possible.

Children

not suitable for kids great with kids

How well a breed interacts with children, including tolerance for play and energy level.

Whippets are generally very good with children due to their gentle nature, calm temperament, and playful personality. They can be great playmates for kids, but should be supervised around young children due to their small size and fragility.

Dogs

not dog friendly very dog friendly

The breed's friendliness and sociability towards other dogs.

Whippets are known for their friendly and sociable nature. They generally get along well with other dogs, but may be a bit reserved with strangers. Introducing them to other dogs at a young age is key in ensuring a well-socialized and happy pooch.

Strangers

reserved with strangers friendly with everyone

The breed's reaction to unfamiliar people, including whether they tend to be wary or friendly.

Whippets are generally reserved with strangers, but they are not aggressive. Socialization and exposure to a variety of people and situations is key in developing a well-balanced and confident pup.

Playfulness

laid-back very playful

The breed's activity level and tendency to engage in play and games.

Whippets are playful and enjoy a good game. They can have bursts of energy and like to play with toys and run around outdoors. They can also be content curling up on the couch for a good snuggle.

Alertness

less alert very alert

The breed's level of awareness and vigilance, which can affect their ability to perform certain tasks or jobs

Whippets are generally very alert and perceptive. They can make great watchdogs and will let you know if something is amiss. They are also known for their speed and agility, making them great candidates for canine sports like lure coursing.

Adaptability

less adaptable very adaptable

The breed's ability to adjust to new environments and situations, including whether they are adaptable or may become stressed.

Whippets are adaptable and can do well in both city and country living. They typically require moderate exercise and are happy spending time with their owner indoors or outdoors.

Shedding

no shedding hair everywhere

The amount of hair a breed sheds, which can affect allergies and cleanliness.

Whippets have a short and easy-to-maintain coat, which sheds moderately. Routine brushing will help minimize shedding, but they are not hypoallergenic. Keep in mind that Whippets can be sensitive to cold weather, so consider a coat if living in colder climates.

Grooming

low maintenance high maintenance

The amount of maintenance required to keep a breed's coat healthy and clean.

Whippets have a short and easy-to-maintain coat, which needs minimal grooming. They typically require only occasional bathing and brushing to maintain a healthy coat. Whippets may have sensitive skin, so it's important to avoid over-bathing or using harsh shampoos.

Drooling

dry mouthed heavy drooler

The amount of saliva a breed produces, which can affect cleanliness and potential drool-related issues.

Whippets are not prone to drooling and are considered to have a dry mouth. This can make them a good choice for those who don't want a slobbery pooch.

Size

very small very large

The breed's overall size, including their weight and height.

Whippets are considered a medium-sized breed, weighing between 25-45 pounds and standing at around 18-22 inches tall at the shoulder.

Energy

couch potato high energy

The breed's overall activity level, including their need for exercise and play.

Whippets have a moderate energy level and can do well in homes with a small backyard or apartment setting. Daily exercise is important for overall health and happiness, and they enjoy walks and runs, but also like to have a good nap.

Exercise

low exercise needs high exercise needs

The breed's need for physical activity and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Whippets have a moderate exercise requirement, and do well with daily walks and playtime. They love a good run, but should always be kept on a leash or in a securely fenced area.

Working

not suitable for working great for working

The breed's suitability for working and performing certain tasks or jobs.

Whippets are not typically used for working or performing specific jobs, but they can excel in sports like lure coursing and agility.

Hunting

not suitable for hunting great for hunting

The breed's natural hunting abilities, including their prey drive, scenting abilities, and tracking skills.

Whippets were originally bred for hunting small game, and still maintain some of their natural hunting abilities like a high prey drive and excellent sight. Care should be taken to prevent them from running off to chase small animals.

Vigor

low-drive high vigor

The breed's physical stamina and endurance, including their ability to maintain high levels of activity and energy.

Whippets have a moderate physical stamina level. They enjoy moderate to high levels of activity, but can also be content lounging around the home with their owners.

Health

less healthy very healthy

The breed's overall health and potential health issues, including whether they may be prone to certain illnesses or conditions.

Whippets are generally a healthy breed and not prone to many genetic health issues. However, they are known to develop heart disease and eye problems, so it's important to have regular vet check-ups.

Obesity

not prone to obesity highly prone to obesity

The breed's tendency to gain weight and become overweight or obese, including whether they require extra monitoring and exercise.

Whippets are moderate eaters and can be prone to obesity if overfed or not exercised enough. Regular exercise and portion control are key in maintaining a healthy weight.

Cold

not cold tolerant high cold tolerance

The breed's ability to tolerate cold weather conditions, including whether they require extra warmth and protection.

Whippets are not highly tolerant to cold weather due to their short and thin coat. They should be provided with a warm and cozy coat to wear in colder climates.

Heat

not heat tolerant high heat tolerance

The breed's ability to tolerate hot weather conditions, including whether they require extra cooling and protection.

Whippets are able to tolerate warm weather, but care should be taken to prevent overheating. Access to shade and water is essential, and exercise should be limited during the hottest parts of the day.

Apartment

not suitable for apartments great for apartments

The breed's suitability for new or inexperienced dog owners, including their trainability and temperament.

Whippets are considered a great breed for apartment living due to their moderate size and energy level. They typically require daily exercise but can be content lounging around at home with their owners.

Wanderlust

less likely to wander very likely to wander

The breed's tendency to wander or roam, including whether they may become lost or require a lot of supervision.

Whippets have a moderate wanderlust tendency, especially if they catch a glimpse of something interesting. It's important to always keep them on a leash or in a securely fenced area when outside.

Sensitivity

less sensitive very sensitive

The breed's sensitivity to criticism or negative reinforcement, including whether they may become stressed or anxious.

Whippets can be sensitive to harsh correction or negative reinforcement, so it's important to use positive reinforcement methods during training. They can also be sensitive to cold weather and require a coat or sweater when outside in colder temperatures.

Separation

not suitable for alone time great at being alone

The breed's tolerance for being left alone, including whether they may become anxious or destructive.

Whippets can tolerate being left alone for moderate periods of time, but may become anxious or bored if left alone for too long. It's important to provide them with plenty of toys and mental stimulation to keep them happy while their owners are away.

Barking

quiet very vocal

The amount of barking a breed tends to do, including whether they may be vocal or prone to excessive barking.

Whippets are generally not excessive barkers, but they may bark at unfamiliar sounds or visitors. Some Whippets may even be on the quieter side and tend to bark infrequently.

Mental

happy to lounge needs a job or activity

The breed's need for mental stimulation and engagement, including whether they are intelligent and require challenging activities.

Whippets are intelligent and enjoy a variety of activities to keep them mentally stimulated. Puzzle toys, obedience training, and agility courses can all provide mental stimulation while also bonding with their owner.

Novice_owners

not suitable for novice owners great for novice owners

Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.

Whippets can make great pets for novice owners due to their adaptable and easy-going nature. However, they may require patience and consistency during training, especially with housetraining and leash manners.

Trainability

difficult to train easy to train

The ease of training a breed, including whether they are intelligent, obedient, and willing to learn.

Whippets are generally intelligent and eager to please, but can be independent thinkers. They may require patience and consistency during training, as they can be sensitive to harsh correction. Positive reinforcement methods tend to work well with this breed.

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History of the Whippet

The Whippet breed was created by crossing a small Greyhound with a terrier breed.

The result was a dog that was smaller and faster than a Greyhound, making them better suited for hunting small game such as rabbits and rats.

The Whippet was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1888.

Whippet Puppies

Whippet puppies are born with a soft, downy coat that is quickly replaced by their short, smooth adult coat.

They are typically a very active breed and require plenty of exercise and socialization to prevent them from becoming bored or destructive.

Whippet puppies should be socialized early and experience a variety of environments to help them become well-adjusted adults.