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History
This elegant small greyhound was developed by crossing greyhounds with Italian greyhounds and terriers. Coursing these dogs was an entertaining form of gambling for the lower classes in England. The Whippet is an outstanding track racer over short distances, reaching speeds of nearly 60 km per hour in seconds. The Whippet's sweet personality makes him a fine companion dog.
Description
The Whippet looks like a small greyhound. He is graceful and slender, but is actually quite hardy. The head and muzzle are long. The rose ears fold gracefully back when the dog is at rest, and are often semi-pricked when the dog is alert. The dog gives a very curvaceous impression, with his deep chest, and tucked abdomen, and arched neck, back and loins. The short sleek coat comes in many colors: black, fawn, blue, red, solid or mixed.
Talents
Hunting, sighting, watchdog, racing, agility, and lure coursing.
Personality
Elegant and lively. Very affectionate and sweet. Quiet and calm at home. Can be high-strung and timid. The Whippet should never be roughly trained, for he is very sensitive.
Behavior
Children: Best with older, considerate children.
Friendliness: Reserved with strangers.
Trainability: Slightly difficult to train.
Independence: Moderately dependent on people.
Dominance: Low.
Other Pets: Generally good with other dogs; do not trust with non-canine pets.
Combativeness: Friendly with other dogs.
Noise: Not a barker.
Notes
Sensitive to the cold. Better for adults than children, as the breed is not particularly playful or demonstrative. A clean dog, easy to care for and easy to travel with. Can be difficult to housebreak.
Grooming
Grooming: Very little grooming needed.
Trimming & Stripping: No trimming or stripping needed.
Coat: Short coat.
Shedding: Average shedder.
Exercise: Needs lots of exercise.
Jogging: An excellent jogging companion.
Indoors: Relatively inactive indoors.
Apartments: Will be OK in an apartment if sufficiently exercised.
Outdoor Space: A small yard is sufficient.
Climate: Prefers warm climates.
Owner: Good for novice owners.
Longevity: Moderately long lived (12 to 15 years).
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