Overview: The Whippet is a playful and affectionate companion. It enjoys exercising as it has energy it needs to expend. It gets along well with other dogs, and pets. It may act shy around strangers, but otherwise it will be friendly towards people it doesn't know. It is pretty easy to train as it is receptive to learning new things. I can do very well as a watchdog, but it lacks in guard dog attributes. With the short hair it has it is very easy to groom. It has little to no resistance to the cold and is quite comfortable in warmer climates.

Temperament: Known to be one of the most obedient of the sighthounds, the Whippet can make an excellent companion. Both quiet and calm while inside, this breed is good to have around children. Outside it is very fond of running and playing. It is a sensitive dog and should never be treated roughly or with disrespect.

History: The Whippet was first introduced during the 18th century in England. One of its ancestors was the Greyhound, while others were smaller sized dogs that were used for hunting small game. This breed took place in contests known as Snap Dog. People would bet on which dog could snatch the most rabbits before they had escaped the circle that had been placed down. The Whippet was perhaps mixed with ratting Terriers to increase the speed and skill for these matches. However it wasn't until the Industrial Revolution that the Whippet was truly developed into what it is today. As people moved out of the country and into the city for jobs, there wasn't much in the way of rabbits to be found, so the dogs would race towards flags. This new sport, Rag Racing, became common practice among the coal miners, so much so that the Whippet was dubbed the poor man’s race horse. The Whippet wasn't only a good friend to these people, but also a source of extra income. Although Whippet racing still occurs today, it hasn't received as much attention and promotion as Greyhound racing and as such is considered an amateur sport. Once the Whippet became an recognized breed in the late 19th century it was mixed with the Italian Greyhound to refine its features. Today the Whippet is known as the most popular of sighthounds.

Names: There is no other name the Whippet is known by.

Groups: The Whippet was formally recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1888 and was accepted into the Hound Group.

Physical Characteristics: The average adult Whippet can be 18 to 22 inches in height, and can weigh between 20 to 40 lb. This breed is considered to be of medium size. It is seen as a fit and elegant dog with good balance, speed and power. The coat is short and smooth, being close to the body.

Care: If it receives enough exercise each day, the Whippet can even live in an apartment. A bed should be provided for the Whippet to keep it comfortable. It should not live outside, especially in cold weather, however it would be good if it had access to a yard. It can run and play in snow and cold temperatures, but it should be resting in warm environments.

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