Whippet

Dog Breed Profile

Whippet History

The Whippet is a breed of domestic dog originally developed in Great Britain. The Kennel Club officially recognized the breed in 1874, but it has ancient origins and may have been used for hunting as far back as the 7th century. The Whippet is a medium-sized, muscular, long-legged sighthound. The locomotive nature of the Whippet is a result of its heritage as a coursing hound, a racing greyhound and the ancestor of the Greyhound and Saluki. The temperament of the whippet is remarkably versatile, and it is often used as a pet, a watchdog, a therapy or assistance dog and, when trained, as a competitive field or show dog.

Time of Origin

1800s

Country of Origin

England

Ancestry

English White Terrier, Greyhound

Whippet Physical Characteristics

The Whippet is a small, long-legged breed of dog. It is known for its speed and agility. It stands at about 15.5-17 inches at the withers, and 20-23.5 inches at the withers. It has an elongated, narrow head, and its tail is carried over the back. The body is muscular and straight, and the legs are long and sinewy. The coat is short and fine. Its coloring may be any solid color, including brindle, sable, or lynx. The nose is black.

Eye Colors

Brown

Nose Colors

Unknown

Coat Colors

Unknown

Height Range

Male Height Range: 19 – 22 inches

Female Height Range: 18 – 21 inches

Weight Range

Male Weight Range: 25 – 40 lbs

Female Weight Range: 20 – 40 lbs

Whippet Health

Description of breed health.

Lifespan

12-15 yrs

Whippet Health Concerns

Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Von Willebrand’s Disease, Anesthesia Sensitivity/Allergy, Corneal Dystrophy, Cataracts, Lens Luxation

Whippet Temperament and Behaviour

The Whippet is a medium-sized, compact, and muscular breed of dog. They are gentle, good-natured, and very intelligent. They are playful and outgoing, but also quiet and independent. They do well with children and other dogs and cats.

Whippet Activity Requirements

The Whippet is a medium-sized, sighthound that is known for its great speed. They are often compared to Greyhounds. While a Whippet doesn’t need a great deal of running, they do need regular exercise. They will enjoy a nice long walk every day. They also enjoy running, especially if there is an opportunity to sprint. While a Whippet is a good companion for people who live an active lifestyle, they do not require the same amount of exercise as a dog who is designed to pull a sled. They do, however, need to have well-developed muscles in order to support their skeletal structure.