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Whippet

The Whippet is a sleek, beautifully statuesque, and athletic breed. They are gentle, calm, obedient and reserved.

Overall Status

Height 18 to 22 inches at the shoulder
Temperament Affectionate, Playful, Calm
Weight 25 to 35 pounds
Life Expectancy 12 to 15 years
Coat Color Black, Blue, Red, White
Barking Level When Necessery

Quick Factors

Playfulness
Dog Friendly
Exercise Need
Grooming Needs
Strangers Friendly
Family Affectionate
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Daily Care

Grooming Tips Exercise Tips Feeding Tips Health Tips Trainability

The Whippet's coat only needs to be brushed with a hound mitt once per week to remove loose hair and keep the coat healthy. They only require bathing as needed. The thin coat of the Whippet does not protect well against cuts and scrapes, so he may be more prone to minor skin injuries than other breeds. Be sure to clean all wounds, even minor wounds, to prevent infection.

Check the ears on a weekly basis for signs of infection, irritation, or wax build up. Cleanse regularly with a veterinarian-approved cleanser and cotton ball. Brush the teeth at least once per week to prevent tartar buildup and fight gum disease. Additionally, nails should be trimmed once per month if the dog does not wear the toenails down naturally.

History

The Whippet was developed at the end of the 19th century through crossing among theGreyhound, theItalian Greyhound, and another terrier type dog. Its name derives from the expression "whip it," meaning “to move quickly.”

The Whippet is an outstanding track racer over short distances, reaching speeds of up to 37 miles per hour (60 km per hour), reaching those speeds in seconds!

Coursing these dogs was an entertaining form of gambling for the lower classes in England and the Whippet was nicknamed "the poor man’s racehorse." The Whippet was recognized by AKC in 1888 and by the English Kennel Club in 1891. Some of the Whippet's talents include hunting, sighting, watchdog, racing, agility and lure coursing.

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