Whippet Purebred Dog Breed Information

Whippet

Generally speaking they do not bark unnecessarily and are very adaptable, fitting in well with children, other dogs, and even cats. They are a hardy, tough, swift, and powerful athlete with a stable and steady disposition.

Additionally, they can be aloof and may bark at strangers as they can become protective of their home. Amiable, friendly, and gentle, but capable of great intensity during sporting pursuits, they are very friendly with family and those they know.

This dog breed is one of the fastest dog breeds that exist today and for that reason they should always be leashed when outdoors - unless they are in a securely fenced area. They are well known for their racing abilities, capable of running at speeds easily up to 35 to 40 miles an hour. They can easily adapt to apartment living as long as they get plenty of outdoor exercise.

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Dressed in short, smooth coats, this breed is a medium-sized sight hound giving the appearance of elegance and fitness, denoting great speed, power, and balance without coarseness. These dogs are truly a true sporting hound that covers a maximum of distance with a minimum of lost motion.

If you are looking for a new dog companion that is an excellent watchdog, good with children, gentle, affectionate, athletic and very clean, then the Whippet just might be the perfect dog to add to your family.

Despite his overall delicate appearance, the Whippet is a strong and healthy dog and a fantastic athlete. They are perfectly adapted to the sport of lure coursing. Keep in mind, health-wise, that his teeth should be scaled regularly and that his nails need regular clipping as well.

Males are 19 to 22 inches tall, while females are 18 to 21 inches tall. The best home for these dogs is inside, out of drafts, with their family and when outside in a fenced area or on a leash.

Country of origin: England
Lifespan: 12-15 years
Colors: Any color
Known health problems: Cataracts, deafness, thin skin, lens luxation

Additionally, did you know that:

• Whippets are not meant for living in a kennel or outside. • They are very active and playful dogs and look a lot like a small greyhound. • There dogs are outstanding running dogs and are often top competitors in lure coursing and other types of racing events. • They are extremely friendly and gentle dogs - and very tolerant of children. • These dogs were bred to hunt prey by sight and to course game in open areas and at very high speeds. • These dogs are very clean, virtually odor free and easy to care for over all. They also make great travel companions. • They are not good with cats or other small animals unless raised with them from an early age. Remember, these dogs were bred to hunt small prey. • They should have regular chances to run free on open ground in a safely secured and fenced area as well as several daily walks, or runs, on a leash. • For their size, grooming needs are about very low. • These dogs were bred to hunt primarily by sight, coursing small game in open areas and at high speeds. • Keep in mind that these dogs love the furniture and will gladly share the couch or bed with you at anytime.

• They are generally a very quiet and gentle dog breed overall and while in the house they are very content to spend much of the day sleeping on the couch!

• Be forewarned, many Whippet owners will tell you that whippets are like potato chips -"you can't have just one"! Which is why most whippet owners end up with a second, third or fourth one sooner or later.

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Return from Whippet to AKC Hound Group