Whippet Dog Breed Information

A member of the Hound Group, the Whippet is a sight dog, meaning they hunt primarily using their exceptional sight and speed -as opposed to scent. In fact, with a top-speed of 35mph, they are the fastest breed of their size. If you’re thinking of adding a Whippet to your home, keep reading to learn more about this speedy pup.

A Little History
You might think Whippets bear a striking resemblance to Greyhounds, and you’re right! Around the mid-1800s, the working class needed a canine capable of chasing-down and returning prey, but could not afford to Greyhounds themselves. It is thought that breeders crossed the Greyhound with various hunting terriers to produce a smaller sight hound with the same desirable qualities. By 1888, the breed was formally recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC). For a time, their speed was exploited for entertainment, but today they are primarily kept in families for companionship.

What are Whippets Like?
Weighing between 25 and 40 pounds, the Whippet is a medium-sized dog that stands around 20 inches high. They are distinguished by their slender skulls, curved bodies, and long, muscular necks. Their coats can be almost any color or pattern, and their natural oils suppress dander and shedding.

Among the most obedient of breeds, the Whippet is gentle and easy to train. They are not picky, and can do well in quiet or boisterous settings. They interact well with other animals and children, but as with any pet, take care to ensure they are not provoked.

Caring for Whippets
If you’re getting a Whippet, a short-haired coat means minimal grooming. One of the most important things they need is designated space and time for exercise. With such a slender frame, their bodies are not built to support any excess weight, and running will help maintain a health weight. However, they are sprinters, so don’t except them to run great distances. Of course, remember to brush their teeth regularly to promote good hygiene, and trim their nails periodically to help keep them comfortable.

Whippets usually live for 12 to 15 years. They are generally healthy and no more likely to develop a health condition than any other breed. Some of the most common medical conditions that affect dogs include Canine Hip Dysplasia (CHD), urinary bladder stones, and heart disease.

The Cost
Breeders charge about $1,000 to $1,500 to adopt a Whippet puppy. New pet parents should also expect to spend roughly $1,200 on food, supplies, and initial veterinary expenses in the first year. After that, routine veterinary care will cost around $500 each year.

While there’s no way to know when our pets will get hurt or sick, we make it easy to be prepared for unexpected expenses. The cost of treatment for unanticipated accidents and illnesses can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Pet parents with a policy from 4Paws Insurance can worry less about the cost of important veterinary care and focus more on their pet’s health.

Sandy Says
Comments from our Chief Pet Officer
This breed is easy to groom and good with children (as long as they are not teased). The perfect home would include a nice, fenced in backyard. However, they can also reside in a condo or apartment as long as they are exercised regularly. They make excellent watchdogs, and even better companions.

https://www.akc.org
https://www.petmd.com
https://www.dogbreedinfo.com
https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/whippet/