Whippet Dog Breed Characteristics

The whippet has the general look of a miniature greyhound.

It belongs to the sighthound family. These fast and elegant dogs have been employed around the world to chase and take down prays of various size and strength.

Other breeds in this category are the Saluki, the Afghan Hound, the Greyhound, the Borzoi, the Scottish Deerhound, the Irish Wolfhound, the Sloughi, the Ibizan hound, the Galgo.


Size

These dogs fit nicely in the category of medium dog breeds.

According to the Kennel Club, a male should be 47-51 cm. (18 1/2-20 ins) a female 44-47 (17 1/2-18 1/ins) at the withers.

The American Kennel Club allows a bigger size: 19-22 ins for dogs and 18-21 for bitches.

Whippet Dog Coat

The short and fine hair makes these hounds low maintenance dogs for the happiness of housekeepers.

To suit everyone’s taste any color and combination is allowed.

High energy outdoors. This dog is a superb sprinter reaching speeds of 35 miles per hour in short races but has a limited stamina.

Very calm at home especially when they have a chance to nap on your favorite couch.





Protection

Good alarm dog but little protection abilities.


Life Expectancy

Despite their delicate appearance these little hounds are healthy dogs. They can easily live up to 14-16 years.

Like other sighthounds, they are sensitive to anesthesia.


Children

They don’t appreciate rough games but are definitely among the dog breeds good with children.

Other Pets

Non aggressive with other dogs but cats and rabbits can look like natural prey.

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Minimal shedding, a weekly grooming with a hound glove will keep the silky coat in top condition.


Abilities

Lure coursing, racing, agility, shows, snoozing.


Living Conditions

When daily exercise is provided, a small fenced yard is sufficient. In extreme weather these dogs need coats for their outings. Low body fat demands soft bedding.

Whippet History

Although there have been dogs of whippet type for centuries, the whippet history as a breed starts only in 1890. Discover the humble origins of this miraculously balanced dog breed.


Wendy, the Bully whippet

What’s a bully whippet? Read the story of Wendy the whippet, a strikingly muscular but still lovable dog.

The Long Haired Whippet

The long haired whippet is not one of the recognized akc breeds. Sometimes classified in the rare dog breeds, these handsome hounds are gaining popularity.

Black Whippet Pictures

Enjoy this collection of black whippet pictures and find among these black dog names the perfect one for your black whippet pup.

Breed Standard

Click here to read the whippet dog breed standards, the documents that officially define the characteristics of the breed.

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