Seven things you need to know about whippets if you're considering them as a pet
Whippets are elegant dogs loved by many for their gentle and affectionate personalities, athleticism, and compact size.
Here are some things you should know if you are considering a whippet:
They are a popular choice for apartment living
Whippets are not known as big barkers, although there are always exceptions. They are sweet-natured and loyal, forming strong bonds with their owners and are happiest when they live indoors. They are usually good with children and other dogs.
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Whippets are perfect for apartment living. Getty Images/iStockphoto
They have a low maintenance coat
Their short, smooth coat is easy to care for and does not have the typical 'doggy odour' many dogs have, making them great indoor dogs. A weekly brush-through, nail clipping and an occasional bath should be enough to keep them looking and feeling good.
Whippets are athletic dogs that love to run and play
They can run up to 56km/hour in a few seconds but are sprinters, not marathon runners. They have bursts of playful energy and need an outlet for this with some daily running, but they are also couch potatoes and love to curl up in sunny spots or on the couch.
They enjoy dog sports like lure-coursing and agility.
They are sighthounds
They were bred to chase and run down small game by sight, so they need secure fencing and often have a passion for chasing small animals, so care must be taken when outdoors.
They should be kept on leash unless in a safe, fenced area to prevent them from having the opportunity to chase other animals.
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They feel the cold
Whippets have short coats and little body fat, which makes them susceptible to cold weather. They are not well-suited for cold climates and usually benefit from wearing a coat in winter.
Whippets most definitely feel the cold. Getty
They are a little sensitive
Whippets are known as sensitive dogs that respond to positive reinforcement and gentle handling. They don't like heavy hands or people raising their voice.
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They need to stay at optimal weight
Their slim body frame is not suited to being overweight and excess weight can result in orthopaedic issues that can be extremely painful.