Whippet

For centuries, the Greyhound has served as the model for many sighthounds, and among them, the gentle-natured Whippet stands out as a swift and successful member of this elite group of lightning-fast runners.

The history of the Whippet traces back to Victorian England, where coal miners in the north enjoyed dog racing and rabbit hunting during their leisure time. However, large breeds like Greyhounds were too costly and demanding to keep, so miners sought a more practical option—a smaller version of the Greyhound. While the exact breeds used to develop the Whippet remain uncertain, the miners' efforts resulted in a dog that excels in speed, reaching up to 35 mph (miles per hour), making it the fastest dog of its size.

1. Whippet History- Source: AKC

In its early days, the Whippet was affectionately known by colorful nicknames like the "Poor Man's Racehorse" and the "Lightning Rag Dog," due to its participation in early lure coursing, where it chased a rag along a straight path. The breed’s name, "Whippet," is believed to stem from the old term "whappet," which referred to a small, yapping dog.

By the early 20th century, textile workers from Lancashire began emigrating to New England, bringing their beloved Whippets with them. The breed quickly became popular in America, where Whippet racing, whether for prize money or just for fun, captivated people from all walks of life, just as it had in England. The AKC recognized the breed in 1888. Today, lure coursing remains an ideal activity for satisfying the Whippet's incredible need for speed. The Whippet is a popular sighthound breed, and enthusiasts often turn to the American Whippet Club for resources and support related to the breed.

The Whippet is known for being amiable, friendly, and gentle at home, making them an ideal companion. While they are calm indoors, they come alive when given the chance to chase, showcasing their instinct as sighthounds. Whippet puppies with well-balanced temperaments are curious, playful, and enjoy human interaction. 

• Potential Challenges

Though gentle and quiet, Whippets have a strong chase drive, making them prone to dart after anything that moves, whether it’s a rabbit or even a toy car. A secure leash or fenced yard is essential to prevent them from running off. Socialization from a young age is key to shaping a well-adjusted Whippet. Enrolling them in puppy classes, inviting guests over, and exposing them to different environments—such as parks or dog-friendly stores—are excellent ways to build their social skills. Whippets don’t enjoy being left alone for long periods, so families considering this breed need to ensure they have regular interaction and companionship.

These elegant dogs are lean and graceful, closely resembling the Greyhound but in a slightly smaller form. They feature a long head, a slender muzzle, and a deep chest. Whippets typically hold their ears back, but when alert, the ears perk up into a semi-pricked position. Their teeth meet in a scissors bite, and their eye color varies from dog to dog, adding to their charm.

• Size

Whippets typically stand between 18 to 22 inches in height and weigh around 25 to 40 pounds. Their sleek, medium-sized build contributes to their athleticism and agility, making them both graceful and swift.

• Coat color

Whippets have short smooth coats with short hair that lies close to the skin. They come in a wide variety of colors and patterns, including black, blue, white, fawn, cream, red, and brindle. The patterns on their coats can vary, featuring everything from blazes to spots to patches.

1. White Whippet with Brindle blazes- Source: AKC
2. Brown Whippet- Source: Pixabay
3. Black Whippet- Source: AKC
4. Brown and White Whippet- Source: Pixabay

In the Whippet breed, females are generally smaller and exhibit a more refined and graceful appearance compared to their male counterparts. Males tend to be taller and more muscular, showcasing a sturdier build. When it comes to temperament, female Whippets often possess a more feline nature, displaying a sense of independence and elegance.

They can also be strong-willed and may come across as somewhat shyer than males, who typically exhibit a more outgoing and confident demeanor. Understanding these differences in size and temperament can help prospective owners choose the right fit for their lifestyle and preferences.

Whippets typically require 1 to 1.5 cups of high-quality dry food per day, divided into two feedings. However, the exact amount your adult dog needs can vary based on factors such as size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. Just like people, dogs are individuals, and their food requirements aren’t one-size-fits-all. For instance, a highly active dog will need more food compared to a couch potato. Additionally, the quality of dog food you choose plays a significant role; the better the food, the more nutritious it is, which means you’ll need to serve less to meet your dog’s nutritional needs.

The Whippet is generally a healthy breed, and purchasing from a responsible breeder can help you acquire the healthiest puppy possible. A reputable Whippet breeder will ensure that your puppy is vaccinated and dewormed before bringing them home. These breeders select only physically sound, mature dogs (at least 2 years old) and conduct tests on their breeding stock for genetic diseases relevant to the breed.

• Mitral Valve Disease: It occurs when the mitral valve, located on the left side of the heart, deteriorates over time, affecting blood flow. Whippets, particularly as they age, are susceptible to this condition, with heart murmurs often being the first sign. Early diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan, including oral medications, exercise, and a healthy diet, can help manage the disease effectively.
• Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus: GDV is a serious condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists, posing a life-threatening risk. While more common in large breeds, Whippets can also be affected due to their deep chests. Immediate veterinary intervention is crucial, and recognizing symptoms like a distended stomach or restlessness can save your dog’s life.
• Lacerations: Whippets, with their short and thin coats, are at risk for skin injuries, especially as they play and run. Cuts and lacerations can commonly occur, particularly on their slender legs, and while many small wounds may be minor, any bleeding should be addressed promptly. If you notice a bleeding laceration, applying pressure and seeking veterinary care is important for proper treatment.
• Von Willebrand Disease: It affects blood clotting in Whippets, leading to symptoms such as bleeding gums and prolonged bleeding after injuries or surgeries. This condition is typically diagnosed in dogs between 3 to 5 years old. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for monitoring and managing this disorder to ensure your dog stays healthy.
• Deafness: Whippets can be predisposed to inherited deafness, which may be present at birth or develop later in life. If a Whippet puppy doesn’t respond to training cues or if an older dog shows signs of hearing loss, it’s important to consult a veterinarian. Early detection and the use of hand signals and positive reinforcement can help ensure that a deaf Whippet leads a fulfilling life.

To ensure your Whippet's comfort, provide a soft bed and allow access to your sofa and bed for cuddling. For cold-weather walks, he’ll need a sweater or coat since he can't tolerate the cold for long.

A 5- to 6-foot fence will securely contain your Whippet, as underground electronic fences are ineffective—he’ll likely ignore any shock while chasing something. He should have two 20- to 30-minute walks on a leash daily. Let him run off-leash in a fenced yard or park, but be prepared for his bursts of energy to be short-lived. Avoid heavy exercise for puppies; the guideline is five minutes of exercise for every month of age.

Whippet puppies are easy to house train, and a crate can help reduce accidents and destructive behavior. Use praise, patience, and positive reinforcement during training. With consistent training, you can expect to have a well-trained Whippet. After mastering basic obedience, consider engaging in dog sports like flyball, agility, and lure coursing.

You shouldn't need to bathe your Whippet often unless he rolls in something unpleasant. Due to his thin coat, he may have nicks, scrapes, and tears that could require stitches, so check for injuries regularly.

To maintain dental health, brush your Whippet’s teeth at least two to three times a week to prevent gum disease. Trim his nails once or twice a month if they don’t wear down naturally. Keeping nails short helps maintain healthy feet and prevents scratches when your Whippet jumps up to greet you.

Begin grooming your Whippet as a puppy by handling his paws and examining his mouth and ears to create a positive experience. During grooming, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection. Regular checks will help catch potential health issues early.

Whippets make excellent rescue dogs due to their gentle nature and adaptability. Many Whippets in shelters are looking for loving homes, and adopting one can provide a wonderful companion while giving a dog a second chance. If you’re considering a Whippet, check your local rescue organizations or breed-specific rescues to find a pup in need of a forever home.

Whippet Rescue and Placement

Rescueme.org

When looking to purchase a Whippet, it’s crucial to find a reputable breeder who prioritizes health and temperament. A responsible breeder will provide a puppy that is vaccinated, dewormed, and comes from a lineage free of genetic issues. Always visit the breeding facility, meet the puppy’s parents, and ensure that the breeder is transparent about their practices to guarantee you’re bringing home a healthy companion.

AKC Marketplace

Good Dog

• The Whippet is often nicknamed the “Poor Man’s Greyhound” due to its similar appearance and athletic abilities but at a more accessible size and cost.
• They have appeared in the breed judging show 2023.

Whippets are best suited for individuals or families who enjoy an active lifestyle and have access to a fenced yard for safe playtime. Their gentle and friendly nature makes them great companions for children and other pets. Additionally, those who appreciate a dog that can be both a playful athlete and a calm couch companion will find the Whippet to be an ideal match.