Whippet

Breed Description

The Whippet is an elegant and graceful breed of sighthounds that originated in Britain in the 19th century. These dogs are known as “horse dogs” for their unique ability to reach impressive speeds, making them ideal companions for hunting and racing. The breed’s history begins in the working-class neighborhoods of England, where Whippets became popular among miners and textile workers who could not afford to keep larger sighthounds like Greyhounds but desired agile and fast hunting dogs.

To develop the Whippet, Greyhounds, terriers, and possibly Italian Greyhounds were used. Each of these breeds contributed their qualities: Greyhounds provided speed and grace, terriers contributed boldness and energy, and Italian Greyhounds added compactness and refinement. The result of this breeding was a medium-sized dog that was quick enough to catch rabbits yet compact enough to be easily kept in small homes.

Originally, Whippets were used for hunting small game, such as hares and rabbits. Their speed and ability to maneuver in difficult terrain made them invaluable for this task. However, over time, the breed gained popularity in urban areas, where they were used for dog racing. Whippet racing, known as “rag racing,” became a favored pastime in working-class neighborhoods, drawing crowds of spectators. These competitions required not only speed from the dogs but also strategic thinking, showcasing their intelligence and resourcefulness.

The name “Whippet” comes from the English word “whip,” possibly in reference to their swift movements that resemble a whip’s crack. The breed quickly gained popularity not just in England but also internationally. By the early 20th century, Whippets began appearing in Europe and the USA, where they were appreciated for both their elegant appearance and gentle, friendly nature.

Today, Whippets remain true to their origins. They are still used in racing and excel as family dogs and companions. Their history exemplifies how practical necessity and selective breeding resulted in a breed that combines speed, grace, and loyalty. Whippets continue to win the hearts of people around the world, maintaining their connection to history and tradition.

The price for a puppy can reach up to 60,000 rubles.

Appearance

The Whippet is a medium-sized dog with a refined yet powerful build, perfectly adapted for speed and agility. Its slim, elongated body with long lines and strong muscles emphasizes its natural grace and physical endurance. The Whippet looks both elegant and athletic, making it one of the most graceful breeds among sight hounds. Its movements are smooth, light, and energetic, reflecting incredible speed and control.

The coat of the Whippet is short, smooth, and close-fitting, highlighting its muscle lines. It comes in a variety of colors: solid, brindle, spotted, or combinations, adding diversity and individuality to the breed. The Whippet appears neat and well-groomed, and its coat requires minimal maintenance.

The average height of the Whippet is 47-51 cm for males and 44-47 cm for females. Weights range from 11 to 16 kg, making it light and compact yet sturdy enough for active pursuits. These parameters make the Whippet an ideal companion for both leisure walkers and competitive sports.

The average lifespan of a Whippet is 12-15 years. They maintain their activity and playfulness into adulthood with proper care and attention. The appearance of the Whippet reflects its unique qualities: it is a dog that embodies speed, sophistication, and loyalty.

Character

The Whippet is a dog with a gentle, friendly, and balanced character that perfectly complements its natural energy and speed. These dogs are known for their loyalty and love for their owners. They seek to be close, creating a constant sense of comfort and warmth. Whippets easily adapt to different living conditions, whether it’s an active lifestyle or a quiet, calm atmosphere at home.

These dogs possess an innate sense of tact. They will never impose themselves or demand attention, but will always be ready to keep company, whether it’s playing, walking, or relaxing in the evening. The Whippet is renowned for its peaceful nature and almost never displays aggression, making it an excellent companion for both families with children and single individuals.

The natural grace of the Whippet is evident not only in its appearance but also in its behavior. Despite their activity and love for running, at home they become true comfort enthusiasts. These dogs adore soft resting spots and can spend an entire day curled up next to their owner. However, once the door opens, the Whippet instantly transforms into a swift runner, ready to showcase its incredible speed.

Whippets are easy to train due to their intelligence and eagerness to please. They quickly grasp commands and rules but retain a degree of independence, making the training process engaging. They enjoy participating in activities that require speed and agility, such as racing or agility training. At the same time, Whippets are not prone to hyperactivity and understand moderation in their play.

These dogs love long walks and active outdoor games. They are especially happy when they can run off-leash in a safe area, fulfilling their hunting instincts. However, it’s important to remember that Whippets are sensitive to cold and require extra protection in cooler weather.

The character of the Whippet is a harmonious blend of tenderness, intelligence, and physical activity. They become not just dogs, but true friends who share in the joys of life and are ready to adapt to the rhythm of their family’s life.

Care and Maintenance

The Whippet requires attention to its physical and emotional well-being, and while caring for it is straightforward, it has its specifics. The Whippet’s coat is short and smooth, so it is sufficient to wipe it down with a soft brush or suede cloth once a week to remove dust and maintain its shine. Bathing is necessary only when needed, as their coat is almost odorless. Use gentle shampoos to avoid irritating their sensitive skin.

These dogs love active walks and outdoor play. They need the opportunity to run in safe places where they can express their natural speed and energy. However, due to their hunting instincts, it is important to keep an eye on them and be prepared for sudden sprints after moving objects like birds or cats. Whippets do not require excessive physical exertion, but regular walks and physical activity are essential for their health and mood.

Whippets enjoy comfort and coziness, so it is important to provide them with a warm and soft place to rest. They do not tolerate cold and dampness well due to their short coat and thin skin, so they will need protective clothing in cool weather, especially during walks. At home, they prefer to be close to their family, where they feel safe.

The Whippet’s diet should be balanced and suited to its level of activity. These dogs have a fast metabolism, so their diet must contain adequate amounts of protein and healthy fats. It is important to avoid overfeeding to prevent weight gain, which can negatively affect their joint system.

These dogs are sensitive to harsh treatment and do not like sharp commands or shouting. Training should be gentle but consistent, using positive reinforcement. Whippets appreciate stability and routine, so it is important for them to feel like part of the family and receive enough attention.

They do not tolerate prolonged solitude and may suffer from separation anxiety. It is essential for them to be around people who value their affection and are willing to spend time together. Caring for a Whippet requires attention to detail, but this is easily compensated by their loyalty, gentleness, and love for their owners.

Training and Education

Training a whippet requires a gentle yet confident approach that considers their intelligence and sensitivity. These dogs quickly learn commands due to their natural cleverness and desire to please their owners, but they may show independence, especially if the tasks seem boring or meaningless. Whippets need a positive training method based on praise, treats, and encouragement. Rudeness, shouting, or harsh training methods are completely unsuitable for this breed, as they can undermine their trust and confidence.

It is best to start training at an early age, focusing on basic commands and socialization. Whippets need to get used to various people, animals, and environments to avoid becoming skittish or overly wary. Training sessions should be short and varied to keep the dog engaged. Incorporating play elements into the learning process makes it enjoyable for a whippet.

These dogs possess a natural hunting instinct, so it’s important to teach them the “come” command from a young age and keep them under control, especially in areas where wild animals or moving objects may appear. Boundaries for behavior need to be explained to whippets, but this should be done gently and respectfully.

A whippet chooses an owner who demonstrates patience, kindness, and a willingness to engage. They bond with those who appreciate their loyalty and create a stable, friendly environment. These dogs are sensitive to their owner’s mood and respond best to those who can establish an emotional connection. They do not obey blindly, but they are ready to work with someone they respect and trust.

Whippets are more suited to active individuals or families who can provide physical activity and emotional support. They interact well with children as long as those children respect their boundaries, and they can get along with other animals with proper socialization. Whippets respond to those who don’t just give commands but offer cooperation. Their training is built on trust and respect, which makes them loyal and obedient companions. At Zoónica, elite breed puppies are offered with a complete set of documents.

How to Choose a Puppy

Choosing a Whippet puppy requires careful consideration to ensure health, a balanced temperament, and adherence to breed standards. Start by searching for a reputable kennel that has a good reputation, is registered with canine organizations, and specializes in breeding Whippets. The breeder should be willing to show you the living conditions of the puppies and their parents and provide all necessary documentation.

The puppy should be active, curious, and friendly. Pay attention to its behavior: a healthy and balanced puppy shows interest in its surroundings, is approachable, plays with littermates, and is eager to interact with people. Avoid puppies that appear fearful, overly shy, or aggressive, as this may indicate socialization or health issues.

Inspect the puppy physically. Its coat should be smooth, shiny, and clean, with no bald patches or signs of skin irritation. The eyes should be clear, without discharge, the nose should be cool and moist, and the ears should be clean without odor. The belly should be soft and not bloated, and movements should be confident and easy. The legs should be strong, and the back should be straight. Ensure the puppy looks proportional and healthy.

Ask the breeder for the puppy’s pedigree. This document confirms its lineage, purity of breed, and lack of inbreeding. Check that the puppy’s parents are titled or have tested negative for genetic diseases typical of the breed, such as eye or joint issues.

Be sure to check the puppy’s veterinary passport. It should list vaccinations, parasite treatments, and other preventive procedures that have been administered. Clarify what additional vaccinations or treatments are due so you can be prepared for ongoing care.

Evaluate the living conditions at the kennel. Cleanliness, access to water and balanced nutrition, as well as space for play and movement, indicate the breeder’s conscientiousness. Puppies raised in caring environments are better socialized and adapt more easily to new families.Meet the puppy’s parents. Their appearance, behavior, and health will give you an idea of what your pet may grow up to be. The parents should be friendly, balanced, and meet breed standards.Choose a puppy that shows interest in you, is eager to make contact, and demonstrates confidence. Making the right choice ensures that your Whippet will grow up to be a healthy, active, and psychologically stable companion that can bring joy and harmony to your life. Zoonika offers advantageous offers depending on the breed and pedigree.

Health and Diseases

Whippets are known for their robust health, but like any breed, they have predispositions to certain diseases that should be noted. These dogs typically live long lives, but they require regular care and preventive check-ups with a veterinarian to maintain their activity and quality of life.

Whippets are prone to injuries due to their thin skin and high speed. Even small cuts or scrapes may need attention, so it’s important to ensure their safety during active play and walks. It’s advisable to avoid areas with sharp objects or rough surfaces where they might get hurt.

Due to their low layer of subcutaneous fat, whippets are sensitive to the cold. Hypothermia can weaken the immune system, so they need protective clothing in cool weather. A warm and comfortable place to sleep also plays a crucial role in preventing colds.

Whippets can be susceptible to eye diseases such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) or cataracts. These conditions may develop with age, affecting their vision. Regular check-ups with a veterinary ophthalmologist help identify problems at early stages and slow their progression.

Heart disease, particularly dilated cardiomyopathy, is seen in some members of the breed. This condition may manifest as reduced energy, coughing, or shortness of breath. Early detection through regular examinations helps ensure necessary treatment and extends the dog’s life.

Dental problems, such as tartar buildup and gum inflammation, are also common in whippets. Regular teeth brushing, the use of special treats, and veterinary check-ups can help avoid complications.Rarely, whippets may have allergies, both skin-related and food-related. Symptoms include itching, redness, or coat issues. Identifying the source of allergies and adjusting diet or care can help manage this.Despite their predispositions, whippets are generally healthy and resilient. With regular veterinary oversight, a balanced diet, and adequate physical activity, they can live up to 12-15 years while remaining active and joyful. Caring for their health and timely consultations with specialists help minimize risks and ensure a comfortable and happy life. Thinking about it? There’s a vast selection of listings on the Zoonica map for various cities.