Whippet

Whippet

Height

Male: 46-56 cm, Female: 46-56 cm

Weight

Male: 8-22 kg, Female: 8-22 kg

Pedigree

Yes

Lifespan

12 to 15 years

Pros

  • Affectionate
  • Quiet indoors
  • Low grooming needs
  • Healthy
  • Relatively easy to train
  • Good with children
  • Good with other dogs
  • Adaptable to apartment living
  • High energy outdoors
  • Fastidious and clean

Cons

  • High prey drive
  • can be destructive if bored or not exercised
  • sensitive to cold weather
  • thin skin prone to injury
  • can be difficult to train off-leash
  • prone to separation anxiety
  • potential for barking
  • need for a securely fenced yard
  • not ideal for very young children due to their fragility and the Whippet's high energy
  • requires consistent socialization.
Introduction to the Whippet

Whippets are elegant and graceful dogs, known for their incredible speed and gentle nature. Bred for racing and hunting, they possess a distinctive athletic build and a calm, affectionate temperament, making them wonderful companions.

These medium-sized sighthounds are relatively low-maintenance, requiring moderate exercise and minimal grooming. They thrive on human interaction and enjoy cuddling up with their families. Their quiet and docile demeanor indoors contrasts sharply with their explosive bursts of speed outdoors.

History of the Whippet

The Whippet's origins can be traced back to England in the 19th century, where they were developed as a "poor man's racehorse." They are believed to be a cross between Greyhounds, terriers, and possibly Italian Greyhounds, resulting in a smaller, faster, and more affordable racing dog.

Whippets quickly gained popularity among working-class individuals in Northern England, who used them for racing and rabbit coursing. Their speed and agility made them ideal for these activities, and they became a symbol of pride and entertainment for their owners.

The Whippet breed was officially recognized by the Kennel Club in 1890. Since then, they have become cherished family pets and popular show dogs around the world, admired for their beauty, athleticism, and affectionate personalities.

Interesting facts about the breed

  • Whippets are the fastest accelerating dogs in the world.
  • They can reach speeds of up to 35 miles per hour.
  • Whippets are sensitive to cold weather due to their short coats.
  • They are known for their "roaching" sleeping position, lying on their backs with their legs in the air.
  • Whippets are relatively quiet dogs and don't bark excessively.
  • They are generally good with children and other pets when properly socialized.

Characteristics

Apartment Suitable

Beginner Friendly

Hardiness

Independence

Tolerates Cold

Tolerates Hot

Friendliness

Affectionate With Family

Kid Friendly

Dog Friendly

Stranger Friendly

Grooming

Shedding

Drools

Ease of Grooming

Health

Gains Weight

Ease Of Training

Intelligence

Prey Drive

Vocality

Wanderlust

Need for Attention

Activeness

Intensity

Excercise Needs

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