Whippet


The Whippet: Speed King

Whippet

The Whippet is an elegant, medium-sized sighthound with incredible speed, power and balance. Basically, an English Greyhound in miniature, the breed is capable of speeds up to 35 m.p.h., making it the fastest domesticated animal of its weight.

Nicknamed “the poor man’s racehorse.” the Whippet has always been a racing dog, first in its native England and later on the dog racing tracks of Massachusetts and Maryland. A versatile breed, they are equally at home running through an open field, or lounging around on the couch. Whippets can appear in a wide variety of colors and markings.

If you are thinking about getting a Whippet you’ll be getting an affectionate, obedient and devoted companion. Whippets are calm dogs who are very gentle with children. They are also extremely sensitive and don’t respond well to rough treatment or harsh corrections.

An athletic breed, the Whippet needs daily exercise. The coat is easy to groom and maintain, requiring just the occasional brush down.

WHIPPET FACT FILE

Group: Hound
Country of origin: England
Date of origin: 1700′s
Originally bred for: Racing / Rabbit coursing
Current function: Companion
Size: Medium
Coat length: Short
Shedding: Yes
Grooming requirements: Once a week
Town or Country: Either
Ideal home: Small or large house
Minimum garden size: Small or medium
Exercise requirements: Up to 1 hour per day
Lifespan: Over 12 years

If you enjoyed this page on the Whippet, check out some of the other dog breed links below.

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