Whippet puppies and dogs

Breeds that are commonly mixed with Whippets include Labrador Retrievers, Bulldogs, and Italian Greyhounds. Characteristics of a Whippet mix can vary widely depending on the specific breeds involved, the individual dog’s genetics, and its upbringing. A few common Whippet mixes include:

• Whipador (Whippet + Labrador Retriever)

• Bullwhip (Whippet + Bulldog)

• Miniature Ausseippet (Whippet + Miniature Australian Shepherd)

• Whippig (Whippet + Italian Greyhound)

Whippets have primarily been bred for racing and lure coursing. They’re known for their speed and agility, often competing in events where they chase a mechanical lure around a track or field. Overall, they excel in activities that let them use their natural athleticism and energy.

Whippets typically live between 12 to 15 years with proper care and nutrition.

A Whippet is usually considered fully grown when they reach about 12 to 18 months of age. By this time, they’ve reached their full height and weight, although they might still fill out a bit more as they mature.

Yes, Greyhounds and Whippets are related. In fact, Whippets are often referred to as the smaller cousins of Greyhounds. Both breeds share similar characteristics and were originally bred for racing and hunting. They have a lot of the same traits but in a smaller package when it comes to Whippets.

A Whippet has a sleek and athletic appearance with a slender build. They have a short, smooth coat that can come in various colors, such as fawn, brindle, blue, black, or white, often with markings or patches.

Whippets typically stand between 18 to 22 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 25 to 40 pounds when fully grown. Males are generally larger than females.

Yes, Whippets shed, but their shedding is relatively minimal compared to some other breeds. Their short coat requires regular brushing to remove loose hair and maintain its sleek appearance. So, while they’re not entirely hypoallergenic, they are considered a low-shedding breed.

No, Whippets are generally not big barkers. They tend to bark only when there’s a reason, such as alerting their pet parent to something unusual.

Yes, Whippets can make excellent family dogs. They’re affectionate, gentle, and enjoy spending time with their people. However, they do have a lot of energy and need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.

Yes, Whippets can be good companions to kids. They’re usually tolerant and playful with children, especially when they’re raised together from a young age. It’s always essential to teach kids how to interact with dogs properly and supervise their interactions to ensure everyone stays safe and happy.

Yes, Whippets can get along well with cats, especially if introduced to them early on and socialized properly. Their prey drive can be strong due to their hunting instincts, so supervision is recommended when they’re around smaller animals.

Yes, Whippets do well with other dogs. They’re social creatures and often enjoy the company of other dogs, whether it’s during playtime or just hanging out.

Training a Whippet can be a bit of a mixed bag. They're intelligent dogs but can be independent thinkers, which means they may have a stubborn streak. They can learn commands and behaviors quite well with consistent and positive training methods. Early socialization and training are key to helping them become well-rounded and obedient companions.

Yes, Whippets are considered smart dogs. They can quickly pick up on cues and learn new commands, although their independent nature might make them a bit selective about when they choose to listen.

No, Whippets are not aggressive dogs. They’re known for their gentle and friendly disposition towards people and other animals. However, like any breed, individual temperament can vary, so proper socialization and training are important to ensure they grow up to be well-behaved.

No, Whippets aren’t typically good guard dogs. While they may bark to alert their pet parent to something unusual, they’re more likely to greet strangers with curiosity rather than suspicion. Their friendly nature doesn’t make them the most effective guard dogs, but they can still make loyal and loving companions.

Yes, Whippets can make excellent apartment dogs, thanks to their moderate size and relatively low energy levels when indoors. However, they still need regular exercise, so daily walks and playtime are essential to keep them happy and healthy in an apartment setting.

Whippets are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues such as heart problems, eye issues, and skin conditions. Regular veterinary check-ups and maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine can help keep them in good shape.

Whippets are generally healthy but may be prone to the following:

• Von Willebrand’s disease: Von Willebrand’s disease (vWD) is the most common inherited bleeding disorder seen in dogs. It happens when a dog does not produce enough of a specific protein that helps the blood cells used in clotting stick together. This results in dogs who are unable to clot properly and could cause hemorrhages or other bleeding issues. The deficient protein is called von Willebrand factor (vWF).

• Heart issues: Whippets are susceptible to heart disorders ranging from mild heart murmurs to more significant mitral valve disease, a condition where the valve directing blood from the left atrium to the left ventricle begins to fail and eventually leads to heart failure.

• Others: Whippets are more prone to performance injuries than diseases. They are also intolerant of anesthesia, may develop eye defects, and occasionally become deaf.

No, Whippets are not considered hypoallergenic. While they do have short, smooth coats that shed minimally, they still produce dander and can trigger allergies in sensitive individuals. If allergies are a concern, spending time with a Whippet before bringing one home can help determine if they’re a good fit for you.

The cost of a Whippet can vary depending on several factors, such as breeder reputation, lineage, and location. On average, you can expect to pay between $800 to $2,500 for a Whippet puppy from a reputable breeder. Adoption fees for Whippets from shelters or rescue organizations are typically lower, ranging from $150 to $500.

If you’re interested in adopting a Whippet, there are several options available:

Local animal shelters: Check out your local animal shelters or humane societies. They often have Whippets or Whippet mixes available for adoption.

Breed-specific rescues: Look for Whippet-specific rescue organizations in your area or nationally. They focus on finding homes for Whippets in need of loving families.

Online adoption websites: Websites such as Petfinder or Adopt-a-Pet can be great resources to search for Whippets available for adoption in your area.

Remember, adopting a dog is a wonderful way to give a deserving Whippet a second chance at a loving home!