The most important role a Whippet can have is in being a companion and family member!
We love the breed dearly but as with any breed, the pros and cons need to be considered.
- They are a sighthound and were bred to chase and kill small animals.
- They can be trained to leave other small animals at home alone.
- Recall work is a priority so that you are confident with them off-lead.
- Adult Whippets tend to be laid back, loving, and affectionate.
- They can be at full speed one minute and sound asleep the next.
- Puppy Whippets are high energy and can imitate Velociraptors!
They are a loving and affectionate breed – happy to have a short burst of energy one minute running around the garden and the next, curled up fast asleep on the sofa. Certainly not high maintenance on the grooming front with a sleek, short single coat – a weekly soft brush and occasional bath is all that’s needed – however, they can feel the cold and may require jumpers and coats when it’s chilly. They do require their nails trimmed regularly and it’s important to get them used to this as puppies.
Whippets make excellent family members getting on well with people, children, dogs – and other animals in the family so long as training is consistent and boundaries are set. Just because your Whippet respects and gets on with your own cat or pet rabbit doesn’t mean they will not see ones outside of the household as fair game! Do remember they are a sensitive breed and respond well to positive training methods. A secure enclosed garden is a must.
A versatile breed they can enjoy a wide range of activities such as showing, obedience, agility, flyball, lure coursing, canicross, and racing to name a few. They can be stubborn and self-opinionated but are more than capable of achieving The Kennel Club’s Good Citizen Awards at Bronze, Silver, and Gold levels. They can also make very good therapy dogs with their gentle and affectionate nature.
Whippets at home and play
