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What is a Whippet?

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The roots of our breed are found in ancient times: Egyptian tomb paintings depict a medium-sized sighthound hunting birds and small game. The modern popularity of the WHIPPET was established 200 years ago in the mining towns of Northern England, where WHIPPETS were kept as companions, also to hunt rabbits and to race for amusement. The breed was first introduced to the U.S. in the 1800's.

The first impression of a WHIPPET is always its extreme leaness. You can see that they are constructed for running--long spine, long strong legs, a deep chest for air and a slender waist for flexibility, and no excess weight-- altogether streamlined, sturdy and efficient. The breed's standard size (18 to 22 inches at the shoulder, roughly 25 to 40 pounds) and sleek coat make them "easy keepers." They come in a pleasing variety of solids, brindles and parti-colors.

WHIPPETS have a friendly disposition and adapt well to any household. They are especially suited to families because they are not too big for children to handle and do not demand a lot of maintenance by a busy parent. WHIPPETS are very active puppies, but mature into steady and unobtrusive adults. When raising a WHIPPET puppy, it is easier to prevent bad habits, such as chewing, from becoming established than to try and corret them later. WHIPPETS are fastidious, making them easy to housebreak, and they will groom themselves often to stay clean.

In addition to house pet duties, there are many pleasures and activities you can share with your WHIPPET. Their elegance, style and easy preparation make them popular as show dogs. There is not, however, one bit of extra fur to disguise any faults. They are judged equally for their symmetry standing still and for efficient, graceful movement. A WHIPPET is often chosen Best in Show over hundreds of other dogs.

Amateur racing is becoming increasingly popular. The dogs are raced in two styles, either on a straight 200-yard course, or lure-coursed over an angled track up to 1200 yards long. WHIPPETS can achieve speeds up to 35 miles per hour, in spurts, making them one of the fastest domesticated animals known. The dogs are judged for endurance, enthusiasm and agility as well as speed.

The WHIPPET's basic good manners and desire to please make it a good candidate for obedience work, too. They are best trained with praise and encouragement, avoiding harsh corrections.

And yes, WHIPPETS are excellent at catching frisbees!