Whippets are renowned for their incredible speed and graceful athleticism, traits they share with their larger cousin, the Greyhound. However, the Whippet has its unique charm and personality, making it a beloved companion for dog lovers. If you’re considering adopting a Whippet or are simply intrigued by this lightning-fast breed, you’ll want to delve into this insightful article by a Waterdown, ON veterinarian. Learn about the Whippet’s history, characteristics, grooming needs, and the joys of celebrating Whippet Day on August 19th. Discover why Whippets are cherished as affectionate pets and why they might be the perfect addition to your family.
There are a few special doggy holidays this month, including Whippet Day, which is celebrated on the 19th. Whippets may not be as well known as their larger kin, the Greyhound, but these sweet dogs could definitely use some love. A local Waterdown, ON veterinarian offers some insight into the breed below.
Whippet Basics
The Whippet is a Sighthound, which means that they track game visually. Whippets look very much like their close kin, the Greyhound, though they are smaller. Males can grow up to about 22 inches, with females being just a bit shorter, averaging 18-21. The pups weigh between 25 and 40 pounds, and can live about 12 to 15 years.
Fido’s name derives from a 17th-century word which meant to move briskly. (The term may have become obsolete if not for the Devo song.) That description is certainly fitting. Like the Greyhound, these sleek dogs are very fast. In fact, the Whippet was often described as the “poor man’s Greyhound.” They have the fastest idle-to-running acceleration speed of all our canine pals, and can actually reach speeds up to 35 mph. And while the Greyhound holds the record of being the fastest dog on earth, Whippets can sometimes beat them.
Breed History
The Whippet was bred from English Greyhounds, Italian Greyhounds, and terriers. However, Fido has quite a large extended family tree. Similar Sighthounds include the basenji, Pharaoh hound or saluki. These dogs have been at our sides for some time. Dogs that closely resemble these pooches have been depicted in art from Ancient Egypt. The breed also has ties to dogs owned by the ancient Celts and Turks.
Whippets were bred from dogs that were used for poaching rabbits. They soon became popular with gamblers, and were commonly used as racing dogs in England during the 18th century. Fido was also sometimes called a Snap Dog, which meant he could win contests by ‘snapping up’ the most rabbits in a certain period of time. Thankfully, that sport is now outlawed.
Grooming And Coat
As far as coats go, these guys can wear 12 different colors and patterns, including fawn, red, orange, tan, cream, black, brindle, and blue. They can also be white or dun, though these colors are quite rare. They don’t need to be bathed too often, but should be brushed regularly. Use a soft brush: hard bristles may be too rough for Fido’s delicate skin. When you do bathe your canine friend, you’ll need to use a very gentle shampoo. Like Greyhounds, these guys are very sensitive to chemicals.
Because of their thin coats and lack of body fat, Whippets do not do well in the cold. Fido will need sweaters and jackets when it’s chilly out. They also absolutely hate hard floors: a comfy bed is a must.
Temperaments
Whippets are very affectionate. They tend to be very sweet pets, who can quickly melt hearts with their soulful eyes. They’re good with kids, and tend to get along well with other dogs. As far as cats go, it varies: if Fido is raised with Fluffy, he may be just fine. However, we wouldn’t recommend bringing a Whippet that hasn’t been around cats into a home with a kitty.
Are Whippets High Energy Dogs?
Because of their speed, one may assume that Whippets are very high-energy dogs. That isn’t necessarily the case. Fido does need a good walk every day, and will appreciate having a yard to zoom around in. However, once they have burned off their zoomies, Whippets usually turn into couch potatoes, and will happily spend a good chunk of their days napping and dreaming of chasing squirrels.
Do Whippets Bark A Lot?
Those who prefer quiet dogs may want to take note: these guys rarely bark.
Are Whippets Cuddly?
Yes! Whippets are known to be very, very cuddly, and love to snuggle with their owners. Unlike some pets that prefer solitude or require companionship of their own kind (for example, budgies often need a buddy), Whippets are content with human companionship and affection. Their love for cuddles makes them excellent lap dogs and perfect companions for those who enjoy close bonding with their pets.
Are Whippets Healthy Dogs?
There are a few things potential owners need to be aware of here. First and foremost, these dogs are not built to carry extra weight. While obesity is bad for all pups, it’s particularly detrimental for these guys, as they can quickly develop orthopedic issues if they are allowed to become obese. Because they are somewhat slender in nature, people may assume that Fido needs more meat on his bones, and overcorrect by overfeeding him. Consult your Waterdown, ON veterinarian regularly on your pet’s diet and exercise needs.
The breed standards do recommend a few specific tests, such as the Ophthalmologist Evaluation, BAER Testing, and Cardiac Exam. Additionally, like all dogs, Whippets require regular dental care to maintain their overall health. Our veterinary dentistry services can help keep your Whippet’s teeth in top condition, preventing potential health issues down the line.
It’s also important to note that, like many other Sighthounds, Whippets’ physiology is a bit different from that of other dogs. Their blood work may look a bit different. They’re also extremely sensitive to chemicals. That comes into play with things like sedation, parasite control, and even choosing lawn and garden products. Be sure to find a vet that is familiar with the breed.
What Are The Whippet’s Exercise Needs?
Like many other Sighthounds, Whippets can easily become fixated on things like cats and squirrels, and is somewhat prone to bounding off after them. You’ll need to keep a good leash on Fido during your walks. These guys can slip out of regular collars, due to the size and shape of their heads. They therefore need special collars, called Martingales.
You may find Fido a very fun dog. Your canine pal may very well enjoy playing ball, or chasing a flying disc or lure. Many Whippets also enjoy playtime with other dogs.
Are Whippets Hard To Train?
Whippets are quite intelligent. However, they are easily distracted, and will run off after anything that catches their attention. Training is of course important, as it is with any dog. However, you should never rely on this alone, as your pet’s instincts as a Sighthound often override his petucation.
Are There Any Celebrity Whippets?
Unfortunately, we don’t have a lot to report here. There aren’t many famous Whippets. One was supposed to be in Alien 3, but was actually too cute for the role. Whippets also inspired the creation of their own sport, competitive canine Frisbee catching. However, Fido’s cousin, the Greyhound, has appeared in many films and TV shows. In fact, the Simpsons’ dog, Santa’s Little Helper, was also a Greyhound.
Celebrating Whippet Day
How does one celebrate this pawesome occasion? Well, the obvious options would be to play Fido the Devo song, or perhaps watch the 2009 roller-derby movie Whip It. Your pooch may also appreciate a Pup Cup, which is whipped cream, though you don’t want to go too crazy with sweet treats.
Of course, if you don’t have time to do much on the 19th, you can just mark your calendar for July 4th, which is International Whippet Day.
Helping Whippets
As you may know, racing dogs have had a rough go over the last few centuries. Unfortunately the dog racing industry was more concerned with profit than animal welfare. This led to horrible treatment and a plethora of rescue dogs. Things have gotten better for the Greyhound here in the U.S., as dog racing has been outlawed in many places. However, there are still many Greyhound rescues in operation. Overseas, the Galgos dog, or Spanish Greyhound, another Sighthound, is also in need of help: the Galgos is one of the most abused breeds in the world. Consider donating to or otherwise supporting a rescue that helps one of these breeds.
Conclusion: Sweet, fast, and lovable, the Whippet can make a wonderful pet for the right family. Just do plenty of research before adopting one.
Whippet Performance in 2024: Dominating Dog Sports with Speed and Agility
How do Whippets perform in dog sports and competitions?
Whippets excel in dog sports and competitions due to their speed, agility, and intelligence. They are especially proficient in events like lure coursing and flyball, where their quick reflexes and acceleration shine. Whippets can reach speeds of up to 35 mph, making them formidable competitors in racing and agility trials. Despite their gentle nature, they have a strong prey drive, which can be harnessed in competitive environments. Additionally, their friendly temperament and eagerness to please make them adaptable to training, further enhancing their performance in various canine sports.
What are the common health issues Whippets may face?
Whippets are generally healthy dogs, but they can face some common health issues that potential owners should be aware of. Obesity is a significant concern, as these slender dogs can develop orthopedic problems if they carry extra weight. They are also prone to cardiac conditions and require regular Ophthalmologist Evaluations and BAER Testing. Whippets have sensitive skin and are highly susceptible to chemicals, affecting sedation, parasite control, and environmental factors like lawn products. Their unique physiology means their blood work may differ from other breeds, necessitating a veterinarian familiar with Whippets.
What are the specific grooming needs of Whippets?
Whippets have specific grooming needs due to their thin coats and sensitive skin. They should be brushed regularly using a soft brush to maintain coat health and minimize shedding. Bathing should be done infrequently, using a gentle shampoo to avoid irritation. Because of their thin coats and low body fat, Whippets are sensitive to cold weather and require sweaters or jackets when it’s chilly. Additionally, hard floors can be uncomfortable, so a cozy bed is essential. Regular grooming will help maintain a Whippet’s well-being and keep its coat and skin healthy.
How do Whippets compare to similar breeds like Italian Greyhounds?
Whippets are often compared to Italian Greyhounds, both of which belong to the Sighthound family and share similar characteristics. However, Whippets are larger, weighing between 25 to 40 pounds, whereas Italian Greyhounds typically weigh 7 to 14 pounds. Whippets have a robust build suited for sprinting, reaching speeds of up to 35 mph, while Italian Greyhounds are more delicate and suited for smaller spaces. Both breeds are affectionate and have minimal grooming needs, but Whippets are better for families due to their larger size and sturdiness. Whippets also have a higher exercise requirement, needing regular runs, while Italian Greyhounds require less intense activity.
What is the genetic background of Whippets, including the ‘bully whippet’ mutation?
The Whippet, a graceful Sighthound, was bred from English and Italian Greyhounds and terriers, creating a lean and agile breed known for its speed. Whippets have an intriguing genetic background, highlighted by the ‘bully whippet’ mutation, which involves a myostatin gene mutation. This mutation leads to increased muscle mass, giving the dog a more muscular appearance and enhanced strength. While this trait might benefit racing, it can pose health issues such as joint stress. Breeders focus on maintaining the delicate balance between muscle development and the breed’s characteristic sleekness to ensure healthy and athletic Whippets.
Do you have questions about Whippet care? Contact us, your Waterdown, ON pet hospital, today! We are dedicated to providing both excellent care and top-notch service.
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