| Training | |
| Sensitivity to strangers | |
| Affection for family | |
| Suitable for first-time owners | |
| Ease of grooming | |
| Energy level |
Contents
The story about Whippets, sighthounds with an adorable temperament, is just starting to be written It’s lightning fast.
Many of the sighthounds found on the planet have ancient origins, but this is not the case of the Whippet. We are talking about a fairly recent British breed, selected two centuries ago by workers and miners in the industrial cities of northern England. Initially, these dogs were used for hunting hares and wild rabbits.
There are conflicting versions of how the current breed standard was created. For some historians, the Italian Greyhound was crossed with the English Greyhound to increase speed. These breeds were later crossed with the Fox Terrier, the Manchester Terrier and the Old White Terrier. Although some are convinced that this crossbreeding with terriers never happened.
But if there is one thing everyone agrees on, it is that the Whippet appeared in that time period. This breed was not only used for hunting. During holidays, these dogs raced each other in speed races, chasing a fake prey dragged by a rope. These games were always very popular, as were the protagonists who participated.
From that moment on, the breed has spread a little throughout Europe, but especially in England. In our country, there are several specimens of Whippets, which are often confused with the English greyhound. Yet, the differences between them are considerable. Let’s take a closer look.
Whippet: Physical Characteristics
It is a medium-sized dog. A male Whippet is 19 to 22 inches (47-51 cm) tall at the shoulder, females are slightly smaller. Their weight ranges from 40 to 46 lb (18-21 kg). The body is harmonious and elegant, despite having a large musculature. It has a wide rib cage. The back is broad, firm, and well muscled. Definitely, this breed was born to run: It can reach 35 mi (56 km) per hour.
Its head is long and narrow. This feature gives the animal a very pleasant looking. Its jaws are extremely strong and the muzzle is black. The Whippet has small rose-shaped ears. Its eyes are round to oval in shape and it has a keen intelligent alert expression. The tail is long and slightly curved. It rises above the back.
Whippet: Temperament
Besides its cute appearance, the Whippet is an adorable dog. It is well known as a companion dog. This breed loves to be with its family and has a very sweet and affectionate temperament. For this reason, it is very attached to its owner. Among other important qualities, we can say that it is a balanced and very reflexive animal.
It certainly runs fast, but only when necessary. At home, it is quiet and does not fear strangers. However, it needs a family that is not always “tied” to the couch as it is ontologically lively and sporty. It needs daily exercise and games to burn off its energy. As for its relationship with children, there is nothing to worry about: it is excellent.
Whippet: Breeders
On the Internet, you may find different Whippet breeders, especially in the United States. However, you may find specialized and registered breeders in the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Ireland, Scotland, India and South Africa.
Hopefully, with a little patience, you will find your four-legged friend. The most recommendable thing to do is to visit several breeding establishments where you can ask for further information about this magnificent breed and be introduced to your future Whippet. It is a dog that has always been sought after.
Whippet: Puppies
They are adorable. Their elegance and gracefulness is already noticeable from puppyhood. They are born to run, but like their human owners, they can stay quietly at home for hours.
Whippet puppies have not inherited from their ancestors the desire to hunt. In fact, this breed is ideal for playing happily with you, not for chasing rabbits or hares. Like adult dogs, puppies of this dog breed do not require special care, and above all, they obey commands.
Miniature Whippet and Blue Whippet: Characteristics
These are two of the three types of Whippet. The third type is the traditional one.
- The Miniature Whippet: It resembles a smaller version of a traditional greyhound. However, it is not recognized as an official dog breed.
- The Blue Whippet: Its coat color is as its name implies. According to the standard, which allows any coat color, it is a rare variety.
Whippet: Price, and Puppies For Sale
How much does a Whippet puppy cost? The starting price is 900 dollars, about 800 English pounds. This can increase depending on several factors, such as if the specimen has a pedigree and other documentation that any dog needs.
In addition, if you adopt a puppy, the reliable breeder will provide you with a veterinary certificate which states that the animal has been dewormed and is completely healthy.
You can always ask for the pedigree, which is essential: it allows you to check the purity of the dog’s breed. An animal with a pedigree has certain characteristics of its breed that differentiate it from the rest.
Now that we have clarified all the most important aspects, you can go in search of your new 4-legged friend, who is surely waiting for you.
In addition to the Whippet, there are other types of sighthounds recognized:
Long or wavy sighthounds:
- Borzoi (Russian Sighthound)
- Afghan Hound
- Saluki Hound
Wirehaired sighthounds:
- Irish wolfhound
- Scottish Greyhound (Deerhound)
Short-haired sighthounds:
- Azawakh (African Greyhound)
- Spanish Greyhound
- Greyhound
- Polish Greyhound
- Magyar agár (Hungarian Greyhound)
- Miniature Italian Greyhound
- Sloughi (Arabian Greyhound)
- Whippet
