Whippets 101: The Ultimate Guide to the Playful, Mild-Mannered Dog

The Whippet is a small to medium-sized sighthound known for its sleek, graceful build and impressive speed. Often described as a “miniature Greyhound,” the Whippet was originally bred to chase and race. Despite their athletic prowess, Whippets are quite relaxed in a home environment and are known for being gentle, affectionate, and adaptable.

Thanks to their friendly nature and smaller stature, they have become a popular choice for families, singles, and seniors alike. Their short coat makes grooming relatively easy, while their calm demeanor (once their energy is spent) makes them ideal for those who want a loving companion without constant high-energy demands.

Browse the Whippet art collection here: Drawing The Dog Whippet Art Shop.

---

Whippet Quick Facts

---

History of the Whippet

Early Beginnings

The Whippet’s origins can be traced back to England during the 18th and 19th centuries. They were developed by crossing smaller Greyhounds with other regional terriers and hounds to create a swift yet compact dog suitable for racing in smaller, confined areas. These “poor man’s racehorses” were a favorite among factory workers and miners who enjoyed racing them for sport and entertainment.

Role in Society

Initially, Whippets were used for hunting small game such as rabbits, leveraging their keen eyesight and lightning-fast speed. Eventually, racing competitions became a major part of Whippet culture. Whippets could dash after a mechanical lure or a piece of cloth tied to a string, showcasing their remarkable acceleration and top speeds reaching up to 35 miles per hour. Over time, the breed gained popularity as both a racing dog and a family companion, thanks to its loving personality.

Recognition by Kennel Clubs

The American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized the Whippet in the late 19th century, helping increase the breed’s profile in North America. Around the same time, the UK Kennel Club acknowledged them as well. Today, Whippets are recognized by major kennel organizations worldwide, including the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI). Their athletic ability and gentle nature continue to win hearts, making them a well-regarded breed in various dog sports and as loving household pets.

---

Whippet Appearance

Whippets boast an elegant, streamlined body with long legs and a deep chest. Their body is aerodynamic, built for speed and agility. The head is long and narrow, tapering gently to the muzzle, and they have rose-shaped ears that often fold back against their head when relaxed. They carry a slender but muscular frame, and their tails are long and curved.

Coat colours vary widely, including brindle, fawn, black, blue, and white, or combinations of these. Their short coat sits close to the body, giving them a glossy sheen. Because of this thin coat, Whippets are more sensitive to cold weather than many other breeds, so you’ll often see them sporting a doggy jacket or sweater during chilly months.

Whippet Personality and Temperament

Three key traits that define the Whippet include:

1. Gentle and Affectionate – Whippets are known to form strong bonds with their families. They love nothing more than curling up beside you on the couch or under a warm blanket.
2. Playful and Energetic – Although they enjoy downtime, Whippets are still sighthounds at heart. They need a chance to stretch their legs and run at high speeds in a safe, enclosed space.
3. Adaptable and Quiet – Whippets tend to be calm indoors, making them suitable for apartment living, provided they receive adequate daily exercise. They are not excessive barkers, although they will alert you if something seems amiss.

They typically get along well with children and other dogs, though care should be taken around smaller pets like rabbits or hamsters, due to the Whippet’s prey drive. They thrive with owners who can offer gentle training, positive reinforcement, and an outlet for their energetic bursts.

---

How Do I Care for My Whippet?

Exercise Needs

While Whippets love a good sprint, they don’t require marathon-level exercise. A few daily walks, plus some playtime where they can run freely in a secure area, will usually suffice. Activities like fetch or short bursts of chasing a toy can be incredibly rewarding for them. Because of their speed, it’s crucial that any free-running happens in a safe, fenced-off space to prevent them from darting into dangerous areas.

Training Tips

Whippets are intelligent and generally eager to please, but they can also have an independent streak. Consistent, reward-based training methods work best. Harsh corrections may make them timid or reluctant. Introduce basic commands such as “sit,” “stay,” and “come” early on, and keep sessions short and engaging. Puzzle toys and interactive exercises can help stimulate their mind. Socialization from a young age is crucial, ensuring they grow up well-adjusted to various sounds, environments, and people.

Grooming Needs

One of the Whippet’s most appealing features is their low-maintenance coat. Weekly brushing with a soft-bristle brush or grooming glove helps remove loose hair and keep their coat looking sleek. Bathing can be done as needed (usually every couple of months or if they get especially dirty). Don’t forget to keep an eye on their nails—trim them regularly to prevent overgrowth or discomfort. Check their ears weekly for signs of redness or wax buildup, and brush their teeth several times a week to maintain oral health.

---

Whippet Nutrition and Diet

Whippets generally do well on high-quality commercial dog food, whether dry, wet, or a combination of both. Because they’re an athletic breed, you’ll want to choose a food specifically formulated to support moderate energy levels, with a good balance of protein, fats, and carbohydrates. Some owners opt for raw or homemade diets, but it’s best to consult a veterinarian or canine nutritionist before making any drastic changes.

Keep an eye on your Whippet’s weight, as they have a sleek build and shouldn’t carry excess pounds. Excess weight can strain their joints and hinder their athleticism. Also, avoid feeding table scraps or foods high in fat, and never give them toxic substances like chocolate, grapes, or onions. If you suspect food sensitivities or allergies, speak to your vet about hypoallergenic or limited-ingredient diets to pinpoint potential triggers.

---

Fun Activities for Whippet

• Indoor Games: Puzzle toys and interactive toys can help keep a Whippet mentally stimulated. A quick game of hide-and-seek with treats can also engage their natural sighthound instincts.
• Outdoor Adventures: Whippets excel in sports like lure coursing, which mimics their historical purpose of chasing small game. If you’re not into formal competitions, a simple game of fetch or running in a fenced garden or enclosed dog park can fulfill that sprinting desire.
• Leashed Walks and Hikes: While Whippets aren’t built for extremely rough terrain, they do enjoy gentle hikes or nature walks. Always keep them on a leash in unfamiliar areas due to their strong prey drive.

Frequently Asked Questions About Whippets

1. Are Whippet dogs good with children?
Yes, Whippets generally get along well with children. They’re patient and gentle, though supervision is recommended with very young kids to ensure respectful handling.

2. How much exercise does the Whippet need?
They need moderate daily exercise—at least one to two walks each day and opportunities for short, intense bursts of running or play. A secure, fenced area is ideal for them to safely stretch their legs.

3. Do Whippet dogs bark a lot?
Whippets are typically quiet and not known for excessive barking. They might alert you to a newcomer or strange noise, but most are relatively calm and polite.

4. Are Whippet dogs suitable for apartments?
Yes, with sufficient exercise, Whippets can adapt well to apartment living. They enjoy lounging and are not overly active indoors once they’ve had their run.

5. What health issues are common in the Whippet?
While Whippets are generally healthy, they can be prone to heart issues, eye problems, and injuries related to their thin skin. Regular vet check-ups and preventive care are essential.

6. How long do Whippet dogs live?
Whippets typically live between 12 and 15 years, although many live healthy lives well into their teens.

---

---

Conclusion

With their gentle temperament, burst-of-energy play style, and minimal grooming needs, it’s no surprise the Whippet has become a cherished companion worldwide. They offer the best of both worlds—an enthusiastic athlete outdoors and a relaxed, cuddly friend indoors. By providing them with the proper exercise, training, and nutrition, you’ll have a faithful companion who is just as content sprinting across a field as they are snuggled up by your side on the couch. Don’t forget to celebrate your Whippet with some beautifully illustrated art—after all, they deserve to be showcased!

Art Prints and Gifts for Whippet Lovers

Celebrate your love for the Whippet with unique art prints and illustrated gifts! Our shop offers beautifully hand-drawn wall art and personalized designs that capture the essence of the Whippet’s sleek elegance and loving spirit. These pieces are perfect for birthdays, holidays, or simply showing off your pride as a Whippet owner.
Browse the Whippet art collection here: Drawing The Dog Whippet Art Shop

More Whippet Info

• Drawing The Dog Shop: Drawing The Dog Whippet Art Shop
• Whippet Rescue Organizations: Whippet Rescue and Placement (WRAP)
• American Kennel Club – Whippet: akc.org/dog-breeds/whippet
• FCI – Whippet: fci.be/en/nomenclature/WHIPPET-162.html