The Whippet is a contradiction that resolves itself beautifully in practice: one of the fastest dog breeds in existence who is also one of the most serene household companions. They can reach 35mph at full sprint. They are also, when not sprinting, largely horizontal. If you want a dog who goes hard when it's time to go and settles completely when it's not — the Whippet may be one of the best breeds ever designed.
Exercise
Moderate overall but intense in short bursts. Whippets need a good off-leash run daily — ideally in a safely enclosed space — where they can actually stretch their legs at speed. After 20-30 minutes of genuine running, they're done. Ready for the sofa. For hours. A silicone frisbee in an enclosed space is an excellent Whippet exercise tool.
The Recall Problem
Whippets have a strong prey drive and reach full sprint speed almost instantly. A Whippet who spots a squirrel in an unenclosed area is gone before you've finished saying their name. Build recall carefully using a long training leash before trusting them off-leash in open spaces.
Cold Sensitivity
Whippets have almost no body fat and a single short coat. They feel cold acutely. A warm fleece blanket and a calming donut bed are not indulgences for this breed — they're practical necessities in any climate with cool temperatures.
Temperament
Gentle, sensitive, and affectionate with their family. Good with children and other dogs. Typically reserved with strangers rather than aggressive. They're not guard dogs — they're lovers. Quiet, calm, and deeply attached to their people.
Built with love, in memory of JJ. 🐾💛
