The Whippet Breed
Temperament
Whippets are gentle and lovable pets to live with. The Whippet is a hound and therefore will chase more or less anything that moves – so an enclosed garden is essential.
He likes nothing better than a run over the fields, but will always return when called. He is happy in close association with his human family and will take a full part in the family fun. But he was bred to race, hunt and course, and so he must have his good run every day – and then, being rather sophisticated for a dog, he will be happy to curl up quietly in a corner of your best sofa.
Visit the Whippet Breed Council website.
General Care
The Whippet has a fine single coat, which means, when walking, that he needs extra protection from the elements in the colder months. Grooming is simple – just a good rub over with a damp cloth, and if he comes in muddy, a damper cloth, followed by a dry one. The nails have to be trimmed about every two weeks and, basically, that is all.
Whippet owners don’t know how lucky they are with such an easily managed little dog, which is free of inherited conditions.
Please only buy a puppy from a reputable breeder. Always visit a puppy at the breeder’s kennel or home to see the puppies with their mother. Do not ever buy a puppy from a pet shop or commercial kennels, as puppies from these outlets could well come from puppy farms.
The breeder will give you a diet sheet and advice on how to rear your puppy, so that all requisite items can be purchased beforehand.
You can contact one of the breed clubs who will be happy to put you in touch with breeders with available puppies.
Join the Whippet Club
Membership Of The Whippet club entitles you to up to date information on all forthcoming Whippet Club shows as well as two free issues a year of our great club magazine.