Whippet

Group: Hound
Size: Medium
Lifespan: 12-15 years
Exercise: Medium
Grooming: Very low
Trainability: Medium
Area of Origin: England
Date of Origin: 1700s
Original Function: Racing, rabbit coursing

History
The Whippet as we know it today was developed in Britain. However, what is less certain is the Whippet's ancestry. Some feel the breed was a mix between the Italian Greyhound and the Terrier, while others firmly believe the breed is related to the ancient Pharaoh Hound found in England since 55 BC and that it descends from selective breeding of small Greyhounds. The Whippet, however, has most likely existed since the fourteenth century and was often depicted in works of art, sculptures and paintings. The Whippet made its way to New England in North America when textile mill workers from Northern England brought the breed and the sport of racing with them in the early 1900s. Since that time, the Whippet's endearing personality has made it a favourite family pet, one that adapts well to city or country living. It loves human companionship and a good run every now and then.

Temperament
Intelligent and laid back, Whippets are calm indoors and considerably sweet and docile. Whippets are independent and can never be fully trained. They require gentle training as they are sensitive both mentally and physically. Whippets will thrive when training involves games with running. Whippets have been known to chase down and kill cats, but will be okay with a cat that they have grown up with in the house or if the cat is dominant.

Upkeep
The Whippet can make a good apartment dog if it is taken for a long walk or run daily. Grooming is minimal. The Whippet must have a warm, soft bed. It dislikes cold weather intensely and cannot be expected to live outside. The Whippet can play and run in snow and cold weather but should spend inactive times in warmer temperatures. The hair is extremely short and fine, and the Whippet is virtually free of doggy odor. 

Breeders

Unfortunately there are no known breeders of the Whippet at this time. Please take a look at some alternative suggestions below or if you know of a registered breeder please contact us.

You may also be interested in:

• Greyhound

• Italian Greyhound

• Pharaoh Hound

Breed information sourced from: https://www.dogsnz.org.nz
Images sourced from Google Images.
No copyright infringement intended.