Whippet
Description
The Whippet is a medium-sized breed known for its elegance and speed. These dogs have a streamlined, athletic build that allows them to reach impressive speeds, making them one of the fastest dog breeds. Originally bred in England for hunting small game and racing, Whippets are now popular as loving companions and show dogs. They have a short, smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors and patterns, enhancing their graceful appearance.
Personality
Whippets are known for their gentle and affectionate nature. They typically have a calm demeanor and are very social, enjoying the company of their human families and other pets. These dogs are intelligent and eager to please, which makes them relatively easy to train. However, they can be sensitive, so positive reinforcement methods work best. Whippets are often described as couch potatoes, as they enjoy lounging around, but they also have bursts of high energy and love to run and play.
Care Requirements
Whippets are relatively low-maintenance dogs when it comes to grooming, needing only occasional brushing to keep their coat healthy. Regular exercise is crucial to keep them fit and happy; daily walks and playtime are essential, along with opportunities for running in a secure area. Whippets are sensitive to cold temperatures due to their short coat, so they may require a coat or sweater in chilly weather. Routine veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and mental stimulation through training and interactive toys are also important for their overall well-being.
Suitable For:
- Families with children due to their excellent compatibility
- Households with other dogs
- Active individuals or families, as they have high energy levels
- Those who prefer quieter dogs, as they are low on barking
- People looking for a mild-temperament dog with a reasonable level of protectiveness
- NOT
Not Suitable For:
- Individuals or families who desire a highly protective dog
- Those looking for a highly trainable or quickly learning breed
- People who want a dog that will actively engage with strangers
- Households that cannot provide a reasonable amount of exercise or playtime
- People who expect their dogs to be vocal or bark frequently
Physical Characteristics
Whippets possess a slender, athletic build with long legs, a narrow head, and a long neck. Their eyes are large and expressive, often giving them a sweet and gentle look. Adult Whippets typically weigh between 25 to 40 pounds and stand about 18 to 22 inches tall at the shoulder. Their coat is short and smooth, requiring minimal grooming. Whippets also have a deep chest and a long, tapered tail, which contributes to their aerodynamic shape.
Height
Male: 19" - 22"
Female: 19" - 22"
Weight
Male: 25 - 40 lbs
Female: 25 - 40 lbs
Life Expectancy
12 - 15 years
Breed Profile
Breed Characteristics
Maintenance Requirements
Frequently Asked Questions
Fun Facts
The Whippet breed originated in England during the 18th century. They were initially bred by miners in Northern England who couldn't afford to keep larger Greyhounds for coursing game, so they bred a smaller, more affordable version, which resulted in the creation of the Whippet.
Physically, the Whippet is often described as a "small Greyhound." These dogs have a slender, athletic build that allows them to run at incredible speeds. They are one of the fastest dog breeds, capable of reaching speeds up to 35 miles per hour.
A unique trait of the Whippet is their "double suspension gallop." This means that there are two phases during their stride when all four feet are off the ground, which helps to contribute to their remarkable speed.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Whippets were known as the "poor man's racehorse" due to their popularity in dog racing among the working class. Despite their small size, they were incredibly fast and agile, making them perfect for the sport.
Whippets have often been featured in popular culture due to their unique look and charming personalities. They've appeared in various films, television shows, and even in the world of fashion. The iconic fashion designer, Alexander McQueen, often featured his two Whippets, Juice and Minter, in his campaigns.