Physical attributes
- Height: ranges from 46cm / 18 inches up to 56cm / 22 inches.
- Weight: ranges from 12kg / 27lbs up to 14kg / 30lbs.
- Typical fur colours: various colors.
- Eye colour: brown.
- Size category: medium.
Health attributes
- Common health problems: eye problems, cardiac problems and deafness.
- Usual longevity: 12 to 15 years.
- Hypoallergenic? No.
Whippet breed behavioural traits
- Character traits of a Whippet: The Whippet usually exhibits character traits that include quiet, gentle, affectionate and dignified.
- Whippet obey scale: In percentage terms, the Whippet typically scores around 50% on the obey scale.
- Trick repetitions required: In terms of how many times the Whippet needs to learn new tricks, expect between 26 and 40 repetitions before they pick things up.
- Intelligence category: The Whippet sites in the average category when it comes to intelligence.
- Suitability for children: If you have kids, it’s worth knowing that the Whippet is moderately suitable for children.
The Fascinating Background and History of Your Whippet: A Swift English Heritage
If you’re lucky enough to share your home with a Whippet, you’re living with a remarkable piece of British history. These elegant sighthounds, officially categorized in the hound group, have a fascinating story that dates back to Victorian England, where they earned the nickname “the poor man’s racehorse.”
Originally bred in Northern England during the late 19th century, Whippets emerged from a fascinating mix of small Greyhounds and various terrier breeds. Working-class families in industrial regions like Lancashire and Yorkshire developed these swift dogs for a practical purpose – catching rabbits for the dinner table and participating in local racing events. It wasn’t uncommon to see these graceful dogs racing through the streets after work hours, providing entertainment and a chance for modest gambling among mill workers.
While they’re known for their incredible speed and agility, Whippets bring more to the table than just their athletic abilities. They’ve proven themselves to be dogs of moderate working and obedience capabilities, with average intelligence that makes them adaptable companions. Don’t let their reserved nature fool you – these sensitive souls form deep bonds with their families and have a gentle disposition that’s won hearts worldwide.
Today’s Whippet has maintained many of its original characteristics while adapting beautifully to modern family life. They’re still capable of reaching impressive speeds of up to 35 miles per hour, making them the fastest dogs of their size. Despite their racing heritage, they’ve earned a reputation as wonderful house pets who are just as content curled up on the sofa as they are sprinting in the park.
The breed’s journey from humble working-class roots to beloved family companion is a testament to their versatility and endearing nature. While they might not be catching rabbits for dinner anymore, these graceful hounds continue to charm their way into homes across the globe, proving that their appeal extends far beyond their racing abilities.
Typical costs for buying and owning a Whippet
- Typical purchase price: £723. (Ranges from £514 to £948).
- Expected lifetime cost: £16,571.
- Food costs per year: £220.