Whippets

Breed Information

The Whippet is a medium sized, muscular dog and has a fine short coat. They were originally bred to chase and catch rabbits. This breed is very gentle, affectionate, loyal, intelligent and independent. They are ideal companion dogs being highly adaptable in the home and sporting surroundings. They are very good with children and require a good amount of exercise and very little grooming.

Approximate lifespan is around 12 to 15 years

History

It is thought that the Whippet developed in the North of England during the mid to late 19th century and belonged mainly to the working class people. Whippets were known as the "poor man's greyhound," or the "poor man's race horse" and used for hunting rabbits and other small game due to their speed, agility and excellent sight.
The breed came about by crossing Greyhounds with small terriers by the factory and mine workers in Northern towns near Manchester and Liverpool. On Sundays and holidays, Whippet owners would race their whippets in fields and roads which were known as "rag races," probably due to the piece of cloth that was used as a lure.  
The Kennel Club first recognized the Whippet breed in 1890, thus becoming eligible for competition in dog shows.