Whippet Introduction
Imagine a dog sculpted to glide with grace and ease across the ground. The whippet is a dog with a gentle, playful heart and elegance that belies its lively spirit. These dogs are more than pets. They are companions on the move, shadows dancing under the sun and loyal friends with souls as light as feathered ears.
Whippet ownership is not for those who are weak-hearted. This is an invitation to embrace whirlwinds, chase sunbeams in unbounded delight, and witness the beauty of pure athleticism on four legs. Understanding their quiet dignity and their exuberant bursts is critical to understanding the loyalty in their eyes.
Origin |
England |
Breed Group |
Hound Dogs |
Size |
18 to 22 inches tall at the shoulder |
Weight |
18 to 48 pounds |
Lifespan |
12 to 15 years |
Coat |
Short, smooth, and fine coat that can be any color or combination of colors |
Temperament |
Gentle, affectionate, and playful |
Exercise Needs |
Moderate to high |
Training Needs: |
Easy to train |
Grooming Needs: |
Low |
Health |
Whippets are generally healthy dogs, but they can be prone to some health problems, such as allergies, hip dysplasia, and eye problems. |
Whippet Dog Breed Information | Whippet Price in India
The price of a Whippet in India can be affected by several factors, including:
Breeder reputation: Renowned, well-maintained breeders will charge a higher price. Show-quality puppies can range from Rs55,000 to Rs85,000, or even more.
Pedigree and Lineage: Puppies with champion bloodlines, or those considered show dogs in the future, will command a more excellent price than puppies of unknown ancestry.
Location: Prices can vary slightly depending on the breeder, location, and cost of living.
Gender and Age: In general, puppies that are younger cost more than those who are older. Prices for male and female puppies vary slightly depending on demand and breeder preferences.
Overall health: Responsible breeding will conduct health tests on their puppies, which can add costs.
Here is a general overview of what to expect:
- A reputable breeder with a proven lineage: Prices range from Rs55,000 to Rs85,000 and higher.
- For puppies with high potential, expect to pay at least Rs. 95,000.
Don't make sure to consider the price when choosing a Whippet. Find a responsible breeder that prioritizes animal welfare and ethical breeding.
Here are a few tips to help you find a reputable breeder:
- You can ask for the health certificates and pedigrees of both parents.
- You can visit the kennel and see how the puppies are being raised.
- You can ask about the breeder's breeding methods and experience.
- Breeders that are members of recognized kennel clubs should be considered.
Whippet Physical Appearance
Whippets are a beautiful breed with a delicate appearance and streamlined body. Imagine the greyhound shrunk to a smaller, more manageable size. This breed is no less fascinating.
A Symphony of Slenderness :
- Statuesque silhouette: The Whippet stands between 18 and 22" tall at the shoulders. It is an example of athleticism. They appear to be standing on their tiptoes with long, slender limbs.
- Whipped Windhound: The body tapers gracefully, from a broad chest to a narrow waist and a robust abdomen. This sleekness doesn't just serve as a show. It's adapted for their impressive bursts in speed that make them the sprinters of the dog world.
- Head held high: On top of their elegant neck, a long, narrow head has a noble appearance. The swan's large, dark, soulful eyes are accompanied by a mischievous twinkle that hints at their playful nature.
- Ears like Velvet flags: Their head is adorned with two rose-shaped ears that are as soft as velvet. These flags are usually folded in repose but become alert when curious or excited.
- A Palette of Coat Jewels Whippets is adorned with stunning colours and markings. Their coats have a satiny sheen, from sleek black to fawn, brindle, cream, or even white patches.
Beyond The Surface:
- A Greyhound's Heart in a Smaller Package: Do not underestimate the strength beneath their lean muscles. These gentle giants have a surprising amount of power, allowing them to jump incredible heights and chase objects at lightning speed.
- A Soulful Spirit: Their expressive eye and subtle body language speak volumes. Each gesture, whether a playful nip, soft whimper, or tail flick, shows a complex world of boundless joy and quiet devotion.
Whippet Personality
Whippets have a unique personality that is both playful and captivating. It's a great contrast to their sleek form. These gentle giants possess a charm as surprising as it is compelling. They are a unique mix of speed demons, couch potatoes and cuddly couches.
A Heart That Races With the Wind:
- Born To Run: Underneath the graceful exterior, a heart beats with the excitement of the chase. Whippets have a natural ability to sprint. They can reach speeds that will leave you breathless. Watching them change from statuesque beauty into a blur of fur is amazing.
- The Playful Prankster: Their love of speed isn't limited to the racetrack. They will unrestrainedly chase butterflies, transform your backyard into a zoomie obstacle course, and make you laugh at their mischievous attempts of snatching socks mid-air.
- A Gentle Soul in an Athletic Shell: Do not be fooled. Whippets make for incredibly affectionate and gentle companions. The Whippet will curl up on your lap and offer warmth and unconditional devotion. The soft, velvety hair and soulful gaze of these cats will melt any stress away, leaving you feeling relaxed.
Quiet Dignity with Witty Determination:
- Master of Subtlety: They communicate with tail wags and expressive gazes. The occasional playful nip is also part of their communication. You'll be able to discover intelligence, humour and loyalty when you learn how to read their silence.
- Independent thinkers: Although they may not be loudmouths or attention-seekers, their lack of interest should not be misconstrued as aloofness. They are observant and analytical and show your love uniquely.
- Curious creatures: The curious nature of these creatures fuels their playful spirit. They will explore every corner, find hidden secrets in grass blades, and welcome every new experience as a puppy.
Whippets:
- Be a Whirlwind! Owning Whippets is a great way to enter a world of playful mischief and quiet company. Prepare yourself for zoomies in the living room, sudden bursts at speed, and endless cuddles.
- Respect Their Inner Athlete: Give them ample opportunity to run, jump and chase their prey, whether squirrels or squeaky toys. It is essential to keep their mind and body stimulated. A tired Whippet will be a happy Whippet.
- Patience Is a Virtue: To train a Whippet, you must be gentle and use positive reinforcement. They are independent and will learn at their own speed, but eventually, their intelligence and desire to please you will shine through.
Whippet Grooming Needs
Whippets are like living velvet paintings - graceful, sleek and low maintenance in grooming. But that doesn't mean you should ignore their delicate coat. What you need to keep your Whippet in top condition is outlined below:
A coat as smooth as the wind:
- Minimum Shedding: Whippets have a short, single coat that sheds very little. They are the perfect companions for those with allergies who dislike fur tumbleweeds.
- Basics of Bathing: Whippets don't need frequent baths because their coat is smooth and don't collect dirt or debris. Giving them a gentle bath once every few months or whenever they become noticeably dirty is enough. Avoid irritating sensitive skin by using a dog-specific, mild shampoo.
- Brushing to Keep Your Dog Beautiful: Although they shed very little, a weekly brushing using a rubber or hound's glove will remove loose hairs from their coat and keep it gleaming. It also promotes a healthy glow by distributing natural oils.
Beyond The Coat:
- Nail trimming: Regular trims (around every 2 to 3 weeks) prevent painful cracking and overgrowth. Use clippers explicitly designed for dog nails and avoid cutting too close too quickly.
- Ear Cleansing: Regularly check their ears for signs of infection or wax buildup. Avoid harsh chemicals, and gently clean the ears with a damp cloth.
- Dental Health: Whippets also need to practice good dental hygiene. Regularly brushing their teeth with a canine-friendly toothpaste will help prevent plaque and tartar. Also, dental chews are helpful.
Bonus Tips
- Completely dry them: Use a soft towel after a bath to dry their coat completely. This will prevent any moisture from lingering on the skin.
- Wipe the paws. Clean their paws, especially after walking in muddy conditions or when wet.
- Use gentle brushes and shampoos on their coat.
Grooming your Whippet should be an enjoyable experience. Make grooming a bonding experience by rewarding them with praise and treats.
Whippet Exercise Needs
Despite being a sleek, lightning-fast dog, whippets may surprise you with their need for exercise. The Whippet are not tireless workers, but neither are they couch potatoes who only do minimal activity.
Here's an insight into the world Whippet exercises:
Sedentary Demons and Speed Demons:
- Built to Bursts Whippets are known for their incredible sprinting ability, but they also enjoy quiet periods after their energetic bursts. They prefer shorter, more intense workouts to long walks.
- Daily dash: Aim to do at least 30 minutes of dedicated exercise daily. This could be a vigorous walk/run in a safe open space or a playful sprint after toys in a park.
- Mental Exercise is Important: Do not underestimate its power! Interactive games, scent training, and agility can keep the mind sharp and reduce boredom.
Whippet-Friendly Activities:
- Sprints in Unleashed Spaces: Find an enclosed park or field where you can let your Whippet unleash his inner speed demon. Keep them on a lead in insecure areas. Their prey drive can be intense.
- Lure coursing: This simulates coursing activity, mimicking their natural hunter instincts and giving them a safe outlet to express their inner hunter.
- Nosework Fun: Hide toys or treats and let your Whippet find them using their incredible sense of smell. This is an excellent way to tire your dog out both mentally and physically.
- Tricks Training: Engage their minds and bodies by teaching them fun tricks! Positive reinforcement makes them eager to please and surprisingly intelligent.
Important Considerations:
- Warm-up and Cool-down: They need to warm up before exercising and cool down afterwards, just like we do. Avoid extreme temperatures when performing strenuous activities.
- Listen carefully to your Whippet. Pay close attention to the body language. Give them a rest if they are panting excessively or showing signs that they are tired.
- Pace yourself with your puppy: Start slow and increase intensity and duration as they grow.
Whippet Training Needs
Whippets require a different training approach from your typical eager-to-please pup. While intelligent and affectionate, these sleek speed demons possess an independent spirit and unique way of processing command. You don't have to worry because, with patience, positive reinforcement and a little creativity, you can unlock your dog's hidden potential and create a bond based on mutual respect.
Understanding the Whippet Mindset
- Independent thinkers: They prefer analyzing situations before acting rather than unthinkingly obeying. Patience, gentle guidance, and not harsh commands are the keys.
- Sensitive souls: Harsh corrections or harsh words can discourage them quickly. Positive reinforcement, such as praise and treats, is the best way to win their hearts.
- Short Attention spans: Keep your training sessions short, engaging and focused on one command. Mixing things up will keep them interested.
Building a Training Toolbox:
- Positive Rewarding: Praise, treats, and playful interaction are your best friends. Reward desired behaviour consistently to reinforce learning.
- Lure training: Use sweets to guide your dog's movement, helping them develop the desired behaviour slowly and methodically.
- Interactive Games: Turn training into playtime! Hide treats or play fetch in different variations. Or engage them in scent work to stimulate their mind and body.
- Clicker training: By clicking the clicker, you can instantly mark the moment when the desired behaviour occurs. This is a very effective way to reinforce the behaviour.
Essential commands for your Whippet
- Come to: Begin in a safe area, and increase the distance gradually. Reward their return with enthusiasm.
- Sit/Stay: Use gentle reminders and lure training to increase the stay length gradually.
- Heel Walk calmly alongside you and focus on rewarding the desired position rather than constant correction.
- Leave It: Teach children to ignore unwanted objects and distractions, which helps them walk and prevent trash scavenging.
Remember:
- Be Patient: Whippets will learn at their rate. Rushing them to the point of frustration is not a good idea.
- Have fun! Dog training should be a positive experience for you and your pet.
- Consistency and regularity are key. Frequent training sessions have a more significant impact than long, sporadic ones.
- Seek professional help. When you run into problems, getting advice from a Whippet trainer who is qualified and experienced can be very helpful.
Whippet Health Concerns
Whippets are a graceful and sleek breed that captures our hearts with gentleness and playful spirit. As with all breeds, Whippets can face health issues. Knowing these challenges, we can provide our beloved companions with the best care.
Common health concerns:
- Musculoskeletal Problems: The athletic ability of athletes makes them more susceptible to cruciate ligament tears and osteochondritis. Preventive measures include regular exercise, maintaining a healthy body weight and avoiding excessive exertion.
- Dental disease: They are susceptible to plaque and tartar accumulation, which can lead to dental problems. Brushing your dog's teeth regularly and having regular vet checks are essential.
- Eye Concerns Cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy can affect their vision. Routine eye examinations are recommended.
- Von Willebrand Disease: This inherited blood clotting disorder may cause prolonged bleeding. It is essential to conduct genetic testing and use careful breeding techniques.
- Thyroid Issues: Hyperthyroidism is a condition that manifests as lethargy and weight gain. Blood tests and regular vet checks are essential.
- Anaesthetic Sensitivity: Their unique metabolism makes them more sensitive to anaesthetics and medications. Before any procedure, inform your veterinarian.
Remember:
- Responsible breeding: Choosing a breeder who tests for health problems within their lineage is essential.
- Preventative care: Regular veterinarian checkups are essential for optimal health. Vaccinations and parasite control are also necessary.
- Early detection: Recognizing early signs of illness and seeking prompt veterinary care can make a big difference.
- Lifestyle It is essential to provide a healthy diet, exercise and a loving atmosphere for your children's well-being.
Whippet Fun Facts
Dog lovers hold on to your hats because the Whippet isn't just about sleek lines and lightning-fast speed. Prepare to be whipped up into a frenzy with fun facts about this captivating canine:
Fast Sprinters:
- Blur On Four Legs: Whippets are the Greyhounds (but more minor and cuddle-friendly) of the dog park.
- Couch-potatoes: Do not be fooled. In an instant, they can go from sleeping into a sonic blast, sending tennis balls and squirrels scrambling to cover.
- Born To Chase: It's not just about speed. They are born with a natural zest for adventure, and their instinct to chase is deeply ingrained.
Quirky companions:
- Silent Stalkers: Do not expect loud barks or yappy protests. Whippets communicate through subtle tail wags and expressive gazes. They also occasionally playfully nip each other (of course, a love nip! ).
- Independent thinkers: These gentle souls are not robots that want to please. These gentle souls are independent thinkers and prefer to be guided gently rather than by forceful commands. Respect their independence, and you will find a loyal friend.
- Velvety Shadows The sleek, short coat is available in rainbow colours and patterns, from black and fawn to brindle and even playful white patches. These are living velvet paintings.
Unexpected Feats :
- High jumpers: Long legs aren't only for running. Whippets can leap incredible heights. They're champions at catching frisbees and scaling backyard fences.
- Cosy burrowers: Do not be surprised to find your Whippet curled in unexpected places, such as under blankets or corners. They may even curl up inside laundry baskets. They are experts at finding cosy nooks and stealing your hearts.
- Gentle Giants Whippets are strong despite their slim frames. They can pull and haul weights like miniature sledgedogs. But don't force them to work too hard.
Whippets have a unique combination of speed, gentleness and playful quirks. They are furry whirlwinds that remind us to live with zest, chase our dreams and embrace the moment.
Is Whippet Dog Breed right for You?
The Whippet breed that is right for you will depend on several factors. This breakdown will help you make a decision:
Would you be a good Whippet match?
Pros:
- Loving and Gentle: These are loyal and affectionate companions perfect for snuggling on the couch.
- Low-maintenance grooming: The dog's short coat requires little brushing or bathing.
- Calm and Quiet: These dogs are ideal for apartment life because they don't bark too much.
- Athletic and Playful: They love to play fetch or Zoomies and enjoy bursts of energy.
- Elegant and Unique: Their sleek physique and graceful movement turn heads.
Cons:
- High energy needs: These people exercise daily, including sprints in a safe area.
- Independent thinkers: Training requires patience and positive reinforcement rather than harsh commands.
- Strong prey drive: These dogs may chase small animals and require careful leash handling.
- Anaesthetics are not suitable for your pet due to its unique metabolism.
- Health Issues: As with any breed, certain health concerns can arise.
Lifestyle considerations
- Do they have enough room to run?
- Can they have daily playtime and exercise?
- Do you have patience and understanding for independent dogs?
- Do You Have a Fenced Yard or Safe Area for Off-Leash Sprints?
- Can you afford potential vet bills for health concerns?
A Whippet is a great companion if you have answered yes to most of the pros and considered lifestyle and cons.