Whippet

To get the Whippet, Greyhounds were mixed with terriers to enhance speed and rodent-catching abilities. The Industrial Revolution refined the Whippet. Masses of farm workers moved to cities, bringing with them these small dogs. Whippet owners took immense pride in their dogs, sharing rations with them and often children’s beds. They were valued as companions and admired for their aesthetic appeal. Their popularity was slow, but the combination of lithe elegance and gracious companionship had won many over.

If you don’t mind sharing your bed, don’t mind a bit of fussiness about the weather, and don’t mind keeping a doggy wardrobe, the Whippet could be for you. It’s easy to forget that these dogs were originally bred as hunters, but they were, which means that you’ll need time and patience to ensure your Whippet has good recall and doesn’t pose a risk to backyard animals. They’ll reward you with cuddles galore and adoration, especially if you allow them to burrow in under the duvet with you.

Whippets are capable of short, sharp bursts of fast running but they can run for endurance, too. About an hour of vigorous exercise per day works for them.

While Whippets need space to run, they are happy with any size home so long as there is a comfy sofa within a paw’s reach. They do need access to outdoor space for potty time and daily exercise.

Soft brushes, gentle handling, and early exposure can help your Whippet be successful at grooming. Their skin and coat are fine and sensitive, and only gentle or specially formulated shampoos should be used.

You might get some side eye from a Whippet while training, but they are capable of learning basic obedience, including walking on a leash or harness. Recall is important, although it can’t be relied upon as these instinctual sighthounds will often abandon obedience in favor of the thrill of the chase, even if it’s only a yard squirrel.

Affectionate, affable, and adaptable, these gentle dogs are good with children and make good family pets. They like participating in family activities and are calm indoors. They love to socialize and have never met a stranger.

The cost of a Whippet from a breeder is significantly more than the cost of adopting one from a local shelter or rescue. The adoption fee usually covers additional items such as spaying or neutering, vaccines, and microchipping.