The whippet is a medium-sized sighthound breed known for its speed, athleticism, and grace. Originating in England in the late 1800s, whippets were bred from small greyhounds and terriers to create a compact racing and coursing dog. Their sleek bodies, long legs, and innate speed made them ideal for chasing prey. While historically used in racing and hunting sports, whippets today make devoted companion pets in households around the world. But what exactly are the characteristic traits that define this lively breed?
Physical Attributes
Whippets have a distinctive physical appearance unlike most other breeds. Here are some of their key physical traits:
- Size – Whippets are a medium-sized breed, typically standing between 18-22 inches at the shoulder and weighing 25-40 pounds. Males tend to be slightly larger than females. Their compact, lean frames make them larger than small sighthounds like italian greyhounds but smaller than their greyhound cousins.
- Coat – The whippet coat is smooth, short and close-lying. Coat colors can include black, white, fawn, red, gray, blue, brindle or variations. Many whippets are tricolored with a combination of white, black and fawn markings. Whippet coats require minimal grooming to stay looking sleek.
- Head & Face – Whippets have long, narrow heads with a flat skull and pronounced cheekbones. Their muzzles gently taper to a black nose. Almond-shaped dark eyes and folded rose ears complete their refined facial features.
- Body – A whippet’s neck is long and shoulders are sloped. Their deep chests transition to tucked waists and curved loins. Whippet bodies are lean and leggy, built for speed and agility. Long, slender tails are carried low.
- Legs & Feet – Their long, straight legs enable a far-reaching gallop stride. Feet are hare-shaped, with elongated toes ideal for running. Hind legs are muscled and wider set than forelegs.
Temperament
Along with their physical traits, whippets have some unique personality quirks and behaviors. Common whippet temperament characteristics include:
- Affectionate – Whippets form close bonds with their owners and aim to be close to their side. They thrive on human companionship and affection.
- Athletic – These natural athletes require daily exercise to stay in top shape. Regular runs, hikes or games of fetch keep them mentally and physically fit.
- Calm – When exercised sufficiently, whippets are quiet housemates happy to curl up on the couch. They do well in apartments or homes without yards.
- Intelligent – Smart and responsive, whippets can be trained to compete in agility, flyball and obedience trials. Positive reinforcement yields the best results.
- Prey Drive – As sight hounds bred to chase prey, whippets may instinctively run after small animals outdoors. Proper socialization and training can teach them to control these impulses.
- Independent – Whippets are people-focused but often choose to entertain themselves with toys rather than demanding constant attention.
- Gentle – Despite their hunting past, whippets today get along well with children, other dogs and house pets when properly socialized.
Understanding these whippet characteristics helps owners better care for and appreciate this affectionate, elegant breed. Proper training and socialization enhances their natural tendencies as loyal, easygoing companions.
Origin & History
To fully appreciate the whippet, it helps to understand where they came from and why the breed was developed. Here is an overview of the origins of this speedy canine:
- England – Whippets trace their ancestry to late 19th century England, where they were bred as a smaller, faster version of the greyhound. The name likely derives from ‘whip it’ regarding their swift running speed.
- Racing – With the rise of rabbit coursing and racing sports, English breeders sought to create a compact sighthound adept at chasing rabbits. By crossing small greyhounds with terriers, the ideal whippet was achieved.
- Working Class – Affordable to feed and house, whippets became popular among English working class families who raced them for sport and extra income. Their skill and success on the track earned them the nickname ‘the poor man’s racehorse.’
- Decline – When coursing and racing declined in the early 1900s, so did the whippet breed. But a revival occurred thanks to breed fanciers who appreciated their look, temperament and versatility as a show dog and pet.
- America – Whippets first arrived stateside in the late 1800s but saw a surge in popularity in the 1980s and remain a well-loved breed today. The American Kennel Club recognized whippets in 1888.
Learning about the competitive, hardscrabble origins of whippets gives insight into their athleticism, endurance and willful temperament. Despite their working class roots, whippets exhibit refinement and elegance when running full speed or relaxing at home.
Size Variations
While whippets typically weigh 25-40 pounds, some bloodlines produce distinct size variations. The two size variants include:
- Pocket whippets – Significantly smaller at 12-18 inches and 8-15 pounds. Result of breeding the smallest whippets in a litter. Controversial among some breeders.
- Whippet/greyhound crosses – Larger than purebred whippets at 25+ inches tall and 50+ pounds. Created by breeding whippets with small greyhounds. May lack breed standard proportions.
Pros and cons exist with each of these whippet size variations:
Size Variant | Pros | Cons |
Good for small homes | Prone to hypoglycemia | |
Greyhound cross | Bigger, heartier | Can lack whippet build |
Those interested in a whippet of unusually small or large stature should research breeders carefully for health and temperament. Proper nutrition and exercise are especially important to support the health of size variants.
Speed & Running Ability
Without a doubt, the whippet’s most notable trait is its sheer running speed and athletic prowess. But just how fast can this breed run when put to the test?
- Top Speed – Whippets can run up to 34 mph at full gallop, making them one of the fastest canine breeds. Their highest recorded speed is 35.9 mph.
- Acceleration – Whippets can accelerate from 0 to top speed in just 3 bounds. Their rapid acceleration helps them catch even quick-moving prey.
- Stamina – Whippets possess great stamina and endurance, capable of sustaining speed for distances over 600 yards. Important for coursing rabbits over fields.
- Agility – Their lean frames allow whippets to turn on a dime while running at top speeds. Great for dodging obstacles on the racetrack or in agility trials.
Whippet owners should provide regular outlets for exercise like running, hiking and playing in a fenced area. Daily walks are a minimum. Without sufficient activity, whippets may become restless or even destructive at home. With room to run safely, they astound with their swiftness and agility.
Health & Lifespan
Like all breeds, whippets are prone to certain health conditions owners should be aware of:
- Heart Problems – Both congenital and acquired heart disease can affect whippets. Mitral valve disease is most common in older dogs. Regular veterinary exams help detect heart issues early.
- Cataracts & PRA – Canine eye diseases leading to vision loss. Yearly eye exams by a vet ophthalmologist are recommended for early diagnosis.
- Allergies – Environmental allergies causing skin irritation are common in whippets. Symptoms are managed through medications, bathing and dietary changes.
- Anesthesia Sensitivity – Whippets can be more sensitive to anesthetic drugs. Vets adjust dosages accordingly.
With proper nutrition, exercise, and wellness care, the average lifespan for a whippet is 12-15 years. Some may live longer with lucky genes and diligent care. Their long lifespan allows more years of companionship with this delightful breed.
Resources for whippet health:
Training Tips
The whippet temperament presents some unique challenges when training but also allows for success with the proper technique. Here are some key tips for effective whippet training:
Basic Tips
- Start socialization and training early. Whippets are receptive to learning as puppies.
- Use positive reinforcement like treats and praise. Avoid punishment or harsh corrections.
- Keep training sessions short and rewarding to hold their interest. Whippets have short attention spans.
- Practice basic cues like sit, stay, come, down repeatedly to reinforce.
Common Challenges
- Prey drive – Use a long lead when first teaching recall and work near distractions slowly. High value treats can help get their attention.
- Stubbornness – Be patient and consistent. Whippets shut down if frustrated. Make lessons fun and upbeat.
- Excitability – Avoid overly stimulating whippets before training. Calm but firm cues keep them focused.
- Distraction – Train in short bursts and keep lessons interesting to hold their focus.
The whippet’s athleticism and desire to please make them trainable with time, consistency and an upbeat attitude. Their sensitivity calls for gentle guidance using rewards over punishment during training.
Further whippet training resources:
Finding a Whippet Puppy
For those ready to add one of these special pups to their family, here are some tips for finding a reputable whippet breeder:
- Locate breeders through the Whippet Club of America and regional whippet clubs. Reputable breeders will be involved in the breed community.
- Look for breeders who health test their dogs and provide proof. Tests should include cardiology, eye exams and more.
- Meet parent dogs when possible to assess temperament. Puppies often mirror their parents.
- Ask about early puppy socialization and handling programs. These help build confidence.
- Inquire about litter waitlists, applications and policies. Many quality breeders have waitlists.
- Be wary of breeders who have many litters available at once or sell on retail sites. These may be puppy mills.
Take time finding the ideal breeder willing to answer all your questions. A responsible breeder will screen buyers to ensure whippets go to lifetime homes. Expect to sign a contract agreeing to spay/neuter, provide vet care and return the dog if ever needed.
Is a Whippet Right for You?
Before deciding to get a whippet, consider if the breed will fit your lifestyle and expectations:
Good Fit For:
- Active owners able to provide daily exercise
- Households with older children capable of respectful play
- Experience training sighthounds
- Looking for an affectionate but lower maintenance companion
- Eager for a dog to do canine sports with
Not Ideal For:
- Busy owners unable to exercise daily
- Homes with small children or small pets at risk of injury
- First time dog owners
- Seeking a casual jogging buddy (whippets need to sprint full speed)
- Expecting a dog content with minimal activity
Make an honest assessment before choosing a whippet. Their exercise needs, prey drive and sensitivity require an owner committed to training, activity and relationship building. When matched with the proper household, the loyal whippet will bring many years of devotion, fun and love.
The Captivating Whippet
In summary, whippets are medium-sized sighthounds bred for competitive racing and coursing who make personable companions in the right homes. Their lean bodies, laidback temperaments at home yet sheer speed and agility outdoors are trademarks of the breed. Whippets bond strongly with their special people while remaining gentle with children and pets when properly socialized. Their need for daily activity and tendency to chase small animals are considerations for owners. With understanding of their backgrounds and traits, the elegant whippet can thrive as a treasured canine companion for years to come.