Whippig History
The Whippet, or more accurately, the “Whippet-Greyhound”, is a racing greyhound-type sighthound. It is sometimes referred to by the misnomer “whippet-jack,” particularly in the whippet-racing community. It is the fastest of all dog breeds. The Whippet was created in 1880 by crossing the English Greyhound and the Irish Wolfhound. The origin of the name is disputed, but is thought to be due to the distinctive sound a dog makes when running at full pelt. The Whippet was officially recognized by the Kennel Club (UK) in 1885. The development of the Whippets’ reputation for speed was closely connected with the development of the sport, with the first race held in 1886. The whippet-racing community however, does not accept that the Whippet is a descendant of the English Greyhound and argues that it is descended from the Celtic Hound and the Saluki.
Whippig Physical Characteristics
The Whippet is a medium-sized breed of sighthound that was bred for racing. They weigh between 30 and 45 pounds and stand between 16 and 18 inches tall at the wither. They have a slender, long, and lean body. The Whippet has a straight, narrow nose and pointed ears. They have a thin, short haired coat that is either brindle, red, or fawn in color. The whippet is energetic and agile.
Eye Colors
Brown
Nose Colors
Black, Brown
Coat Colors
Brindle, Black, Gray, Brown, Red, Cream, White
Height Range
Male Height Range: 17 – 20 inches
Female Height Range: 17 – 20 inches
Weight Range
Male Weight Range: 20 – 30 lbs
Female Weight Range: 20 – 30 lbs
Whippig Health
Description of breed health.
Lifespan
12-15 yrs
Whippig Health Concerns
Patellar Luxation, Von Willebrand’s Disease, Corneal Dystrophy, Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), Cataracts, Anesthesia Sensitivity/Allergy, Bone Fractures
Whippig Temperament and Behaviour
The Whippet is a loving and devoted animal that makes an excellent pet. They are large in size, but are gentle and calm, which makes them a great companion. They get along well with children and other pets, but are also protective and loyal to their owners, so they make excellent guard dogs. They are extremely athletic and agile, so they love to run and play.
Whippig Activity Requirements
Whippets are active, agile, and graceful, and they are considered to be one of the oldest of the hounds. These intelligent, friendly, and gentle dogs are great companions. While they don’t need a lot of exercise and are content with moderate walks, they do need regular social interaction. A daily walk or short jog is enough to keep a Whippet happy. They enjoy a mentally stimulating game now and then, such as hide-and-seek or tug-of-war. They also do well with puzzle toys and puzzle feeders. While a Whippet may be a good match for someone who is more interested in spending time with their dog than running, jumping, and hunting, they do require a moderate amount of exercise.
Miles Per Day
8 miles
Activity Per Day
60 minutes
Daily Food
2 cups
Kennel Club Recognition
American Kennel Club
Not Recognized
Whippig is part of the Unclassified group.
Visit the American Kennel Club website.
The Kennel Club
Not Recognized
Whippig is part of the Unclassified group.
Visit the Kennel Club website.
Australian National Kennel Council
Not Recognized
Whippig is part of the Unclassified group.
Visit the Australian National Kennel Council website.
Canadian Kennel Club
Not Recognized
Whippig is part of the Unclassified group.
Visit the Canadian Kennel Club website.
