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Whippet
After nabbing the number 1 spot on our ‘best breeds for first time owners’ post, we felt it was high time we wrote a breed guide for this fantastic dog
Breed History
The Whippet, often referred to as the "poor man's racehorse," traces its origins back to 19th century England. Developed by crossing Greyhounds with smaller terrier breeds, Whippets were initially used for hunting small game and participating in competitive racing. These agile and swift dogs became popular among miners and laborers who couldn't afford to maintain larger Greyhounds but desired a fast, efficient hunting companion and racing dog.
Life Expectancy
Whippets typically have a lifespan of 12 to 15 years
Size
Whippets are small/medium-sized dogs, with males typically standing 19 to 22 inches (50cm) tall at the shoulder and females slightly smaller at 18 to 21 inches (45cm). They generally weigh between 25 to 40 pounds (10-15kg).
Exercise & Training
Whippets truly offer the best of both worlds. On busy days, a quick 20-minute burst of activity—whether it's walking, running, or playing—is enough to keep them content, after which they are perfectly happy to lounge around the house for the rest of the day. When you have more time, Whippets are enthusiastic companions for longer walks, even lasting several hours, and will then settle down for a well-deserved rest. Despite their occasional stubborn streak, Whippets generally respond well to consistent and gentle training methods, making them adaptable and delightful pets.
Grooming/Shedding
Whippets are low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. Their short, fine coats require minimal care. Whippets are generally clean dogs and have little to no doggy odour.
Common Traits
Whippets are known for their gentle, affectionate nature. They form strong bonds with their families and are often described as "velcro dogs" because of their tendency to stick close to their loved ones. Whippets are typically good with children and other pets, especially if they are raised together from a young age. However, take care around smaller animals like cats, rabbits, and guinea pigs, as the Whippet's high prey drive can make these animals targets unless the Whippet is well acclimated to their presence. Whippets are quiet dogs that rarely bark, making them excellent companions for those with nearby neighbours.
Common Health Problems
The most common reason Whippets visit the vet is for injuries sustained while out walking. Their very thin skin makes them susceptible to wounds from undergrowth and fencing, often requiring stitches. Additionally, their delicate legs make them vulnerable to fractures in the event of an accident. Overall, Whippets have few inherited or breed-specific conditions to be concerned about.
Pros
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Affectionate and loyal: Whippets form strong bonds with their families.
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Low grooming needs: Their short coat requires minimal maintenance.
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Quiet: Rarely bark, making them good neighbours.
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Good with children and pets: Friendly and sociable when properly socialized.
Cons
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High prey drive: Can be prone to chasing smaller animals.
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Sensitive to cold: Their short coat provides little insulation, so they may need a coat in cold weather.
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Separation anxiety: Can develop anxiety if left alone for long periods.
Variations
Their sleek, aerodynamic build is consistent across variations meaning colour is the only real variation seen. Whippets come in a variety of colours and patterns, including: Solid colours, brindle and parti colour
