The Whippet elegantly combines grace and affection.
Whippets are admired for their distinctive physique and gentle nature, making them beloved companions and loyal family members.
With a rich hunting and racing history, Whippets embody energy and grace during their playful time in the park.
However, they are just as happy to curl up on the couch for a cozy evening at home.
Whether you’re a seasoned dog owner or contemplating your first furry friend, a Whippet could be the perfect addition to your home.
Whippet history
The Whippet has captured the hearts of dog enthusiasts with its grace, speed, and gentle demeanor.
Its origins can be traced back to the early 19th century in England, primarily developed from a mix of Greyhounds and small terriers.
Initially bred to hunt small game and coursing, the Whippet exhibited the agility required to catch prey and the endurance to run long distances.
The breed’s name is believed to have derived from the old English word “whip,” which refers to the dog’s quick movements while running.
Whippets became popular among the working class and were often used in coursing contests, showcasing their remarkable speed and athleticism.
Their compact size made them excellent companions for individuals who led active lifestyles. In the late 19th century, the Whippet’s popularity surged, leading to the establishment of breed standards and the formation of dedicated clubs.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the breed in 1888.
Throughout the 20th century, Whippets transitioned from hunting companions to beloved family pets, admired for their affectionate nature and adaptability to various living conditions.
Today, Whippets are known for their racing abilities, gentle temperament, and loyalty, making them a popular choice for families and individuals.
Their rich history and elegant presence endear them to dog lovers worldwide.
A Whippet won the Hound Group at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in 2020 and 202.
Breed characteristics
The dogs are small to medium sighthounds, which means they eye their quarry before giving chase. They resemble Italian greyhounds. Their coats are short and smooth and come in several colors and markings.
These affectionate, intelligent dogs are sweet-natured and loyal. Their sensitive nature can make them a little nervous in a harsh environment.
The dogs are considered a medium-sized dog breed.
Males tend to be slightly larger than females, measuring around 22 inches from the ground to shoulder and weighing 25 to 45 pounds.
The dogs typically live 12 to 15 years.
Health issues
Whippets are remarkably sturdy and generally robust, healthy dogs.
They have very little body fat, so they can sometimes appear skinny. For this reason, they also find it hard to tolerate cold weather. A warm coat will keep them safe if out and about in the winter months.
Good nutrition is also vital to ensure your Whippet maintains optimum condition.
Temperament
The Whippet is a devoted companion. It is quiet, calm, affectionate, and excellent with kids and other dogs.
If the dog was raised with a cat, it will never think of your puss as prey.
If you are getting an older dog, you may need to consider some training to integrate your cat and dog.
Grooming
The Whippet is extremely easy to groom. The sleek and smooth coat sheds minimally, so an occasional light brushing is sufficient.
Whippets don’t tend to smell, so bathing should be done as needed. If you bathe them, try to do it on a warm day and towel dry them in the sun.
The nails should be checked and trimmed periodically, but well-exercised dogs will wear them naturally. These compact, tidy dogs do not drool, and their coats do not easily pick up dirt and debris.
Training
Whippets are highly intelligent and will want to please you. Like any dog, though, training is easier if it’s started early.
Because Whippets are natural hunters and chasers, they have a strong prey drive. It’s important to remember that they may be easily distracted by something they must chase.
Use positive reinforcement: Whippet pups respond best to positive reinforcement methods. Reward good behavior with treats, praise, or toys to motivate your dog.
Keep training sessions short and engaging: Your Whippet puppy has a short attention span, so keep training sessions to about 5-10 minutes. Use fun games and positive reinforcement to keep them engaged.
Establish a routine: A regular schedule includes consistent times for feeding, walking, and training sessions.to help your Whippet understand what to expect.
Be patient and consistent: Training takes time, and Whippets may need patience as they learn. Stick to your commands and routines consistently to reinforce learning.
Socialize your Whippet: Expose your dog to various environments, people, and other dogs. This will help reduce anxiety and promote good behavior.
Teach basic commands: Start with essential commands such as “sit,” “stay,” “come,” and “heel.”
Train a reliable recall: Whippets are known for their speed and prey drive, so training a reliable recall is crucial. Practice in a secure area and reward them for returning to you.
Provide mental stimulation: Whippets are intelligent and can become bored easily. To keep their minds sharp, incorporate puzzle toys, training games, and interactive playtime.
Consider professional training: If training is challenging or your Whippet has specific behavioral issues, consider enrolling in a professional training class.
Practice leash training: Whippets can be strong and may pull. Train them to walk calmly beside you, rewarding them for good leash manners.
Stay calm and positive: Stay calm and positive during training to foster a comfortable environment for your dog.
Exercise
Like all dogs, whippets love to run freely. They are highly energetic and require a daily exercise routine to keep them happy.
If you have a park or an area where they can be off-leash, they are sure they are safe or trained to come when called if they wander too far.
They are equally satisfied with a good walk on a leash, as long as it’s regular.
Home environment
Whippets are suitable for homes with fenced yards or a garden. They also make great apartment dogs if they get a couple of good walks or runs a day.
They rarely bark, so neighbors will hardly be aware of them. The flip side of this, of course, is that they don’t make ferocious guard dogs.
Whippets are easy to travel with because they are easy to accommodate, and I love being out and about with you.
Is a Whippet the right dog for you?
These sensitive, affectionate companion animals are amiable and good with kids, other dogs, and your friends.
They can live anywhere as long as they’re warm. Their lively personality is highly entertaining. The dogs are playful, easy to keep, and a most loyal companion.
They enjoy dog sports and daily exercise.
Their prey drive may be higher in some whippets than others, so supervised introductions are advised if you own other small animals.
Laura Horton, MSc (Merit), founded Hound101.com, a website that helps you be your dog’s best friend. She is also a registered health professional with a long diagnostic imaging and health research career.