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Whippet
Description: The Whippet, a member of the Hound group, is a slender, medium-sized sighthound. Similar in appearance to the greyhound (on a smaller scale), the Whippet is graceful, well-balanced, and strong. The coat is short, smooth, and dense, and can be found in a plethora of colors, and with a wide range of spots and other markings. The body is streamlined and symmetrical, with a long, arched neck, well-sprung ribs, deep chest, and retracted abdomen. The muzzle is long and strong, eyes are large and dark, and the small, fine rose ears fold along the neck, even when the dog is at attention. The hindquarters are very well-defined and powerful, with broad, muscular thighs. The Whippet has a long, pointed tail. Temperament: Whippets tend to be quiet, docile, gentle dogs. They are very intelligent, lively, and affectionate, and are extremely loyal to their owners. They make good watchdogs as they are reserved with strangers. The Whippet’s sweet, friendly personality makes it a good companion dog as well. Whippets get along with children of all ages, as long as they are not teased or handled roughly. They are physically and mentally sensitive, and need to be treated gently by their owners. This dog is content to spend much of the day sleeping or laying around the house, especially in its owner’s lap. The Whippet is a truly mellow dog. Caring for a Whippet: Whippets are clean and easy to take care of. Because they have short hair they only need basic brushing and an occasional bath. They are sensitive to the cold, however, and do best in warm environments. Some owners put sweaters on their dogs during the winter. Though happily inactive while inside a house or apartment, Whippets require regular exercise. They enjoy being able to run off the leash as well as go on a brisk walk with their owners on a leash. Since the Whippet is a sighthound, it will instinctively chase and kill smaller animals, so it is important to make sure it is kept in a safely fenced area. Whippets are very intelligent and, as such, very trainable, but their sensitive nature requires an experienced trainer. Whippets respond very well to positive reinforcement. Like most hounds, the Whippet is relatively fee of hereditary medical conditions, though occasionally one will see eye problems or deafness in the breed. |
