Read About Whippet

Whippets are lovely, strong sighthounds with sweet natures. Here's everything you need to know about this dog breed.

Quick Summary:

1. Size:

2. Weight:

   27-30 lbs.

3. Coat:

4. Shedding:

5. Temperament:

   Whippets are gentle, loyal, and quiet. They et very attached to their families. Whippets are, unfortunately, known to be chewers. Be sure to train them early.

6. Obedience:

7. Ease of Training:

   Whippets love to learn new things, but may not be as good at actually doing them. They have the high distractibility of the sighthounds.

8. Way with Children:

   Excellent and loving with children.

- Facts

1. AKC Group/Date Admitted:

   Hounds/1993

2. Size & Weight:

   17-22"; 27-30 lbs.

3. Coat:

   Very short coats, smooth and close to the body.

4. Head & Muzzle:

   Long and lean, with a noticeable pointed nose

5. Body:

   Lean and muscular, the body should also have a certain elegance/

6. Colors:

   All colors

7. Life Expectancy:

   12-15 years

8. Popularity:

   Whippets do about as well in popularity as other hound breeds -- they usually turn up in the low 60s on the AKC's registration records chart.

9. Habitat:

   Whippets have nearly no body fat, so prefer to sleep on soft surfaces. They are affectionate and can appear lazy, but do need a decent amount of exercise..

- Origins

1. Country of Origin:

   Great Britain

2. Historical Information:

   Developed out of various crosses with greyhounds, the whippet was bred to be a fast little dog that was used for hunting rabbit in the late 19th C. Later in the century, they became known as the "poor man's racehorse" and also were brought to the U.S.

- Defining Characteristics

1. Temperament:

   Whippets are gentle, loyal, and quiet. They et very attached to their families. Whippets are, unfortunately, known to be chewers. Be sure to train them early.

2. Behavior:

   Well-behaved, polite dogs. Many owners end up having several whippets because they are such lovely, social dogs.

3. Habits:

   As mentioned above, Whippets love to chew and adore lounging. While they need to get enough exercise, they will lay around the house in a nearly cat-like fashion.

- Concerns

1. Health Issues:

   Whippets can get sunburns, especially on their noses, and are susceptible to the cold. They also have delicate bones and can be prey to genetic eye diseases.

2. Exercise Needs:

   Substantial, but can be satisfied with long walks by apartment-dwellers.

3. Grooming Needs:

   Minimal -- brush or wipe down once in a while, baths if needed.

4. Travel Needs:

   Whippets are not very large, but can be fragile due to their bones, and sun- and cold-sensitivity.

5. Getting Along With Other Pets and Children:

   Once they accept other pets as part of the family pack, whippets get along well with other animals. Excellent and loving with children.

- How to Choose

1. What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:

   {mosimage}Clear eyes, sleek coats, and tons of energy.

2. What You Will Need For A New Puppy:

   An appropriate crate, door gates and backyard dog fencing will keep him safe. Lots of toys and room to run will keep him happy.

3. Puppy-Proofing your House:

   Puppies are small and explore a lot. Be sure that there is anything that your dog can get into, pull out, or chew is safe for him.