Being nicknamed "The poor man's racehorse" or "The lightning rag dog", it's very telling of the nature of speed this dog breed is known for. They are considered a more succesful version of the Greyhound as they are the fastest dog breed for it's size. Due to their low maintainence requirements and versitale nature they are a popular companion dog today.

Average lifespann: 12-15 years

Height:

• Males:
  International: 47-51cm or 18.5-20 inches
  America: 47-57cm or 18.5-22.5 inches
• Females:
  International: 44-47cm or 17.5-18.5 inches
  America: 44-55cm or 17.5-21.5 inches

Weight: 9-19kg or 25-40 lbs

Looks and characteristics:
The whippet's exteriour is as many purpose-bred dogs strongly connected to their purpose, in their case the purpose of running to chase prey. With long sturdy legs, deep chest and trim waist for optimal speed their muscles are suppose to radiate a balanced force of strenght and elegance. These medium dogs have long and arched necks with a lean head and upward ears folded sideways. Whippets look like a miniature version of a Greyhound. Their short and glossy fur does not require any grooming.

Colors:
The breed comes in all colors and pattern variations, though KC announced 2019 that merle Whippets are no longer accepted for registration.

History and origins:
The whippet's origin of country is England. During the Victorian era, coal miners of the north entertained themselves with dog races and rabbit hunts during their spare time. Greyhounds were too expensive as they eat alot and require more space so their solution to this was to breed a smaller sized Greyhound.

Today they are still used in racing, luring coarses, and wherever legal they also still hunt rabbits. Though somewhat versitale they easily get bored by repetive work.

They are sighthound and as the name suggest, these dogs hunt using their vision.

Temparement:
Being a quiet dog breed not prone to bark and known to enjoy comfortable cushion for relaxing, these dogs are very popular for city dwellers. They love cuddleing and being lazy inside but whenever they go outside they require a fenced area to run off some steam. They are known to be happy, harmonious dogs with a positive outlook to their enviroments. They also really enjoy the company of other dogs and humans.

Health:
The whippet is considered a healthy dog breed. They should not be fed too much as their frame is not suited to carry excessive weight and being overfed can lead to orthopedic problems. A healthy weight for a whippet may be considered skinny to people used to heavier bodied dogs. Young growing whippets may appear especially skinny in their rapid growth but their weight is considered normal if their ribs are showing. Responsible breeders screen their stock for health conditions such as cardiac disease, deafness, and eye disorders.

Recommended Health Tests From the National Breed Club:

• Ophthalmologist Evaluation
• BAER Testing
• Cardiac Exam