United Kingdom

Whippet

Whippet

The Whippet originated in England in the 19th century, where it was bred by working-class communities as a small, swift sighthound used for racing and hunting rabbits, prized for its speed, agility, and gentle temperament. Often called the “poor man’s racehorse,” the breed quickly became known for its ability to sprint at remarkable speeds while remaining calm and affectionate at home. Today, the Whippet is an elegant, sensitive, and friendly companion that enjoys short bursts of intense activity followed by long periods of relaxation, adapting well to family life and even urban living, provided it receives regular exercise and a warm, comfortable environment.

Whippet — dog breed
Height
44–51 cm
Lifespan
12–15 years

Verified breeders

Whippet breeders

1 verified breeder · no puppies available

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Kesan Hound

BanskobystrickýVerified breeder

Sme mladá chovateľská stanica vipetov ktorým sa venujeme od roku 2013 keď sme si zaobstarali našu prvú Maju.

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About the breed

What to know about the Whippet before you write to a breeder

History and origin

It arose in northern England in the 19th century among working people who could not afford a greyhound. Crossing small sighthounds with terriers produced a fast dog for rabbit hunting and Sunday racing — hence the nickname ‘the poor man's racehorse’.

Temperament

Gentle, affectionate and even-tempered. The standard calls it an ideal companion, highly adaptable in domestic and sporting surroundings. At home it is a quiet dog that sleeps most of the day; outdoors it becomes something else entirely.

Care

The short coat is undemanding and needs little more than a wipe. Mind the thin skin and absence of body fat — in winter it needs a coat and a soft bed. Exercise is short but fast; let it off the lead only where it is safe, because it will go after quarry without hesitation.

Health

One of the healthier breeds. The heart and eyes are screened. What matters is the sensitivity to anaesthesia that sighthounds share — tell the vet beforehand.

Who it suits

Suits a flat, a family and a first-time owner. Quiet and clean. Wrong where a guard dog is expected, or a dog that will reliably come back from among hares.

Original use

Sighthound — hunting by sight.

Current use

Companion; coursing and racing.

Country of origin
United Kingdom
Original use
Sighthound — hunting by sight.
Current use
Companion; coursing and racing.
Height at withers
44–51 cm
Average lifespan
12–15 years
Bývanie
Dom so záhradou
Potreba pohybu
Stredná
K deťom
Vhodný
Starostlivosť o srsť
Nenáročná
Pre prvého psa
Vhodný
Počasie
Znáša teplo

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