Whippet

Hound Group

Whippet dog lying in front of white background

Height at Shoulders

Females 18-21 in, Males 19-22 in

Weight

25-40 lbs

Life Expectancy

12-15 yrs

History

The Whippet originated in England before the 19th century. It is believed that Whippets began as Greyhounds that were too small to hunt, so they were returned to their peasant breeders. According to Forest Law, peasants were not allowed to own hunting dogs, so the dogs were often maimed before being returned. The breeders continued breedings the maimed dogs, creating a dog fit to hunt rats and rabbits. Once the Forest Law was repealed, Whippets became very popular for hunting and dog racing.

Breed Characteristics

While not all Whippets share the exact same personality and temperament, there are certain generalizations that can be made about the breed. In addition to genetics, a dog’s environment, training, socialization, and many other factors all contribute to their personality and behavior.

Intelligence

Affection Towards Family

Friendliness Towards Strangers

Friendliness Towards Other Dogs

Exercise Needs

★★★★☆

★★★★★

★★★★☆

★★★★☆

★★★☆☆

Energy Level

Sensitivity

Noise Level

Prey Drive

Shedding

★☆☆☆

★☆☆☆

Intelligence

★★★★☆


Affection Towards Family

★★★★★


Friendliness Towards Strangers

★★★★☆


Friendliness Towards Other Dogs

★★★★☆


Exercise Needs

★★★☆☆


Energy Level


Sensitivity


Noise Level

★☆☆☆


Prey Drive

★★


Shedding

☆☆

Common Traits

Friendly, gentle, and playful

Affectionate, people-oriented, and don't like to be left alone for long

Can be timid and easily stressed if not sufficiently socialized

Intense prey drive- will not hesitate to chase an animal for miles and aren't detered by underground electric fences

Have high energy requirements but once they are met, Whippets are laid-back couch potatoes at home

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