About Whippets

WHAT IS A WHIPPET?

The Whippet is a medium-sized, short-coated member of the Sighthound family, which simply means they hunt by sight, not by scent (like Beagles or Bassett Hounds).  The standard height for a male is between 19 to 22 inches at the shoulder and for females, 18 to 21 inches.  Depending on height and build they can weigh from 25 to 45 pounds.

WHAT Colours do WHIPPETs come in?

One of the fun facts about Whippets is that they come in such a wide variety of colours and markings.  Our breed standard states “Color Immaterial” which means colour is not an important factor in judging whippets in the show ring.  Solid colours include fawn (tan), red, black, blue, and white.  Markings can include varying amounts of white – solid white, half white, or some small white markings on the neck, chest, or feet and can include brindle (striped) and masking.  Merle patterning is not an accepted colour for a purebred Whippet.

Are Whippets Considered a Healthy Breed?

Whippets generally have few health problems that are the norm in many other breeds and are generally considered to be one of the healthier breeds.  Cardiac issues are on the rise in Whippets and care should be taken to purchase from a breeder that does regular health testing on all breeding stock.  Life expectancy should be between 12 and 15 years of age if the Whippet has been well cared for (regularly exercised, regular routine veterinary care and proper nutrition).

What Is a whippet’s temperament like?

Whippets are generally calm, quiet, gentle, and not in the least high-strung. They are a very versatile breed that loves to run and be active outside and then happy to crash on the couch. However, they are capable of great intensity when participating in sporting events.

Whippets were bred to run and chase.  On the other hand, one thing to consider is they possess a very strong prey drive, which means they will chase any object or small animal they see moving outside. They are not a breed to be taken off-lead unless in a very safe environment.  Unfortunately, because they move so fast, they can be gone quickly or hit by a vehicle.

Whippets, especially puppies can be destructive if left alone for long periods. Whippets are very attached to their people and are not a suitable breed if you are gone for long periods of time every day.  
Whippets love to share your bed, are great with kind children, and generally make fine pets.  They are excellent house dogs and love nothing more than to snuggle under the covers.

What kind of maintenance and care do whippets require?

Whippets are very low maintenance. Since they have a single layer, short coat, they have little to no “doggy odour” and only occasionally require a bath. Despite the short coat, they do shed.    A good brushing with a hound glove or soft brush will remove dead hairs. Toenails should be trimmed once a week.  Their short coat can tear easily so not a breed to be running through brambles, etc.  They do not have great tolerance for being overly cold or wet and need to live inside the house, not being a breed suitable for living outside or left outside for long periods of time.

How Much Exercise Does A whippet Require?

Despite being so athletic, whippets are not high energy requiring a lot of exercise.  They should be given daily walks and at least a once-a-week run in a safe area.  They love to chase balls and frisbees in moderation. Since they are sprinters, they have incredible acceleration and like nothing better than to be able to run at full speed.  Although whippets can do well as apartment dogs, a fenced yard is ideal.

What kind of activities can I do with my whippet?

Whippets are a wonderful “do-it-all” breed.  There is such a wide range of activities you and your whippet can enjoy. You can have a lot of fun with your whippet in competitions, whether you choose lure coursing, racing, showing, obedience, rally, flyball, agility, barn hunt, scent trials, etc. or just enjoying the excellent companionship of this delightful breed.