• Fact 2 - Description and Definition of Whippets: This breed of dog dates back to antiquity but was specifically bred in England and is believed to originate from the larger Greyhounds. Whippets are small Sighthounds or Gazehounds, which specialise in hunting their quarry by sight rather than scent
  • Temperament: Docile, gentle, demonstrative, obedient and sensitive
  • They are considered suitable as a family pet
  • The whippet is virtually free of "doggy odor."   
• Fact 3 - Origin of the breed: Whippets originated in England and were originally bred as racing dogs, as an alternative to the greyhound because they were small and cheap to keep. Whippets were once called 'Rag dogs' as when their owners raced them they also waved rags at the finish line hoping that it would encourage them to run faster
• Fact 4 - Size: The height ranges from 17.5 - 20 inches, up to the shoulder
• Fact 5 - Alternative Names of Whippets and Nicknames: 'The Poor Man's Greyhound'. the 'Rag Dog' and the 'Snap Dog'
• Fact 6 - Coat and colors of Whippets: The coat is normally fine, short and close and comes in a range of colors including black or white, with red, fawn, brindle, blue and cream
• Fact 7 - Life of Whippets: the life expectancy of this breed of dog is between 12 - 15 years
• Fact 8 - The names of dog breeds are separated into different dog types which are referred to as Dog Groups. The name of the dog group for Whippets is the Hound dog breed
• Fact 9 - After the first year of life, dogs are considered to be adults - they equivalent to 16 human years!
  • After 2 years, they are equivalent to a 24 year old
  • After 3 years, they are equivalent to a 30 year old
  • Every year after  add five human years to determine the equivalent age of the dog
• Fact 10 - Choosing Whippets as pets! The following considerations should be taken into account when choosing this particular breed of dog as a pet:
  • How much it will cost to feed and train the dog?
  • How much time will it take to groom the dog?
  • How much time will it take to exercise the dog on a daily basis?
  • Are Whippets suitable for children?
  • How much will it cost for vet bills, pet or dog health insurance, medication and vaccinations?
• Fact 11 - Every breed of dog is susceptible to certain health problems and illnesses. Whippets are prone to health problems and illnesses such as:
  • - Eye problems including cataracts
• Fact 12 - Breeding Whippets for appearance was only introduced in the 19th Century
• Fact 13 - It is estimated that 85% of dogs visit a vet in a year
• Fact 14 - The average cost of owning a medium sized dog, over a 10 year period, is estimated as over $13,000! This provides a good idea of how much it costs to raise Whippets

For in depth information we highly recommend Dog Names and Breeds.