Whippet Dog Breed

The Whippet dog breed, originating in England during the 1700s, is interesting in that it was developed for both poaching small game and for sport. It is a close relative of the Greyhound which is thought to have been crossed with ratting terriers and other smaller dogs.

Peasants would use them to hunt for rabbits, and they were soon made popular in "snap dog" contests. The contest consisted of saturating a circle with rabbits and seeing how many could be bitten by the dog before they exited the circle.

Whippet racing became popular among amateurs when the workers of the Industrial Revolution were starved for entertainment. There were no rabbits in the densely populated cities, but coal miners of the time were overjoyed when they realized their whippets would chase after a waving rag.

Rag racing was born, and the poor man's race horse, as the whippets would be referred to, not only provided entertainment, but helped to put food on the table with their winnings. The whippet would officially be recognized by the AKC in 1888. Modern whippets excel in dog shows, lure coursing, and racing.

Whippet Dog Breed: Temperament

The Whippet is a very gentle, loving companion and is one of the more obedient canines in the Hound Group. Owners find they are excellent with children and make great playmates; however, they are very sensitive and should not be played with roughly or yelled at under any circumstances.

This breed is not only well mannered in the house, but is also practically odorless.

Whippet Dog Breed: Health

Whippets are one of the few breeds of hounds that have adapted well to apartment life so long as they are taken for a daily run in a safe secure area. Whippets tend to be accident prone and can easily cut themselves when moving at high speeds. They will also do well with daily walks provided they are between thirty minutes to one hour in length.

This breed will do everything it can to avoid the cold, and should be considered an inside dog. They will spend a fair amount of time searching the house for a nice warm place to sleep. This is a virtually groom free dog because of its short hair.

The main problem Whippets have health wise are conditions that effect their eyes. It would be a good idea to have your veterinarian check the eyes regularly.

One can expect their Whippet to live between 12-15 years if in good health.