Whippet Dog Breed - Origin, Pictures, Caring Needs, Friendliness and more

Whippet 1

Whippet At A Glance

Whippet Overview

The Whippet is a sighthound known for its sleek elegance and remarkable speed. Originating from England in the 19th century, this breed was bred to hunt game such as rabbits and hares. Standing at approximately 20-24 inches tall and weighing around 35-45 pounds, Whippets have a slender, muscular build with long legs that enable them to reach speeds of up to 35 miles per hour.

With a coat that is generally short and smooth, the Whippet comes in various colors including fawn, brindle, blue merle, black and white, or red and white. Their large, expressive eyes are usually dark and intelligent, while their ears hang close to their heads.

Whippets are known for being friendly, affectionate, and loyal companions. They have a high prey drive and should always be kept on a leash when not in a secure environment. Regular exercise is essential to keep them physically fit and mentally stimulated. Their coats require minimal grooming, making them relatively low maintenance compared to some other breeds.

Due to their slender build, Whippets can be prone to certain health issues such as patellar luxation, hip dysplasia, and heart murmurs. Regular veterinary check-ups are important for maintaining their health. Despite these considerations, the Whippet is often described as a joyous, energetic, and devoted companion.

Whippet Key Points

  • Agility and Speed: Whippets are renowned for their exceptional speed and agility, making them excellent sprinters.
  • Intelligence: They are highly intelligent, quick to learn commands, and adaptable to various training environments.
  • Affectionate: Whippets have a gentle, affectionate nature and enjoy spending time with their families.
  • Versatile: Originally bred as hunting dogs, they can also excel in roles such as therapy dogs or obedience competition.
  • Small Size: Despite their speed, Whippets are relatively small, typically weighing between 15 to 25 pounds.

Whippet Quick Facts

Average Purchase Price
$900
Average Food Costs
$300/year
Average Lifetime Costs
$21000
Origin
England
Type
Hound
Average Life Span
13 years
Size
Medium
Average Weight
15 kg
Average Height
20.5 inches
Fur Colours
White, Black, Red
Eye Colours
Brown
Exercise Requirements
2 hours per day
Grooming Needs
Low(Once a week)
Shedding Fequency
Occasional
Ideal Living Size
Small house
Health Issues Risk
Low(Dental problems, eye issues, skin allergies)
Temperament
Friendly, Affectionate, Lively, Gentle, Intelligent, Quiet
Character
Intelligent, energetic, good-natured, loyal

Whippet Characteristics

Friendly Rating7/10
Trainability6/10
Intelligence Rating8/10
Good with Other Dogs10/10
Good with Strangers6/10
Shedding Tendency4/10
Drooling Tendency2/10
Coat Length2/10
Playfulness8/10
Protectiveness6/10
Energy8/10
Barking Tendency2/10
Adaptability6/10
Beginner Friendliness6/10
Cold Weather Tolerance2/10
Hot Weather Tolerance8/10
Physical Needs8/10
Intensity4/10

Whippet FAQs

What is a Whippet dog?

The Whippet is a small sighthound breed known for its athletic build and keen hunting instincts. Often called the "Greyhound of the Woods," it is one of the oldest breeds in the world.

How big do Whippets typically grow?

Whippets are relatively small dogs, standing around 20-28 inches (51-71 cm) tall at the shoulder and weighing about 35-65 pounds (16-29 kg).

What is the life expectancy of a Whippet?

On average, a Whippet has a lifespan of 12 to 15 years.

Are Whippets good with children?

Yes, Whippets are generally friendly and good with children. However, they should always be supervised because of their small size.

How do I care for my Whippet's fur?

Whippets have short, smooth coats that require minimal grooming. Weekly brushing is sufficient to keep their coat in good condition.

Are Whippets prone to any specific health issues?

Common health concerns among Whippets include hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and obesity. Regular veterinary check-ups can help manage these issues.

Can Whippets be trained as hunting dogs?

Absolutely! Whippets are intelligent and quick learners, making them excellent hunting dogs. They are known for their stamina and agility in the field.

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