“When a problem comes along, you must…” Whippet? If you can keep up with her, that is. This speed machine can zoom along more than 30 miles an hour. She's faster than a deer, a Grizzly, or a kangaroo! The Whippet goes forward and moves ahead so fast, no one gets away from her. That's because of her gallop — a “double-suspension” stride that makes her look as though she's flying when she runs. She can also navigate at nighttime. It's no surprise that this breed takes its name from the whip-fast velocity at which these dogs move, or that the Whippet is the world's most popular sighthound.
Originally from England, this medium-sized and medium-energy breed can grow to between 20-40 pounds and lives an average of 12-15 years. The breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club and classified as a member of the Hound group.
| AKC Recognized | Y |
| Breed's original pastime | Running, hunting |
| Origin | England |
| Breed group | Hound |
| Average lifespan | 12-15 years |
| Size | Medium |
| Bark factor | Rarely barks, if ever |
| AKC Ranking | 59 |
| Family | Sighthound |
| Date of origin | 1700s |
| Original function | Racing, rabbit coursing |
| Today's function | Racing, lure coursing |
| Average size of male | Height: 19-22 Weight: 20-40 |
| Average size of female | Height: 18-21 Weight: 20-40 |
| Other name | None |
| Energy level | Medium energy |
| Exercise needs | Medium |
| Playfullness | Moderately playful |
| Affection level | Very affectionate |
| Friendliness toward other dogs | Friendly |
| Friendliness toward other pets | Friendly |
| Friendliness toward strangers | Friendly |
| Ease of training | Easy to train |
| Watchdog ability | High |
| Protection ability | Not very protective |
| Grooming needs | Low maintenance |
| Cold tolerance | Low tolerance |
| Heat tolerance | Medium tolerance |
BEHAVIOR & TRAINING
WHAT IS A WHIPPET'S PERSONALITY LIKE?
Loving, playful, and calm, the Whippet is a wonderful breed. They like children and make gentle, devoted canine companions for your little ones. It is always best, however, to supervise play. Considering she's a cousin to the more reserved Greyhound, this dog is fairly demonstrative with her affection; she'll gladly cuddle up close to you. Your Whippet will generally be happy to see strangers on either two or four legs, unless they're small, furry, and running away from her. (In which case: chase on.)
WHAT IS WHIPPET BEHAVIOR LIKE?
These are elegant, athletic dogs prone to incredible sprints and long, lazy afternoon naps. They're incredibly focused while coursing or racing, Whippets are otherwise sedate and dignified housedogs. If you're looking for a jogging buddy who then wants to chill with a movie and cuddles, this breed is a perfect choice.
HOW EASY IS IT TO TRAIN A WHIPPET?
Whippets respond well to training, though this quick-learning breed is also easily bored. Keep training sessions short and fun. Be gentle with this sensitive soul. She'll respond best to play or food rewards.
Whippets are fierce competitors in the dog sport of lure coursing. But that focus and determination to catch the small thing running away also makes these dogs poor candidates for off-leash play outside a well-fenced area.
CARE & HEALTH
HOW MUCH DO WHIPPETS SHED AND WHAT ARE THEIR GROOMING NEEDS?
Whippets are below-average shedders who don't require much grooming. Their short, thin coats just require weekly brushing to help dispel extra hair and the occasional bath.
WHAT HEALTH PROBLEMS DO WHIPPETS HAVE?
As a breed, the rapid, robust Whippet is generally healthy. Their slight frames make them ill-suited to carry more weight, and obesity in Whippets can lead to orthopedic problems. Be conscientious about meals and snacks. Some are also susceptible to deafness, eye ailments, and heart disease.
