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Whippet
Origin
England
Size
Medium Breed
Ideal Space
Apartment
Ideal Weather
15º-30ºC
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹3,550
Basic Lifestyle
₹5,400
Premium Lifestyle
Top 5 Traits
Athletic
Energetic
Intelligent
Loyal
Playful
The Whippet is a slender, elegant dog bred for speed and agility. Originating in England, they were primarily used for hunting small game and later became popular in racing. Known as the "poor man's racehorse," Whippets are capable of reaching speeds up to 35 mph, making them one of the fastest dog breeds for their size. Despite their high-speed capabilities, they are also known for being calm and quiet indoors, often referred to as "couch potatoes" when not in motion.
Temperamentally, Whippets are gentle and affectionate, forming strong bonds with their family members. They are generally reserved with strangers but not aggressive, making them poor watchdogs. Their natural friendliness makes them excellent companions for children, though they may be a bit timid if not socialized properly. Due to their high prey drive, care should be taken when they are around smaller animals, but they tend to get along well with other dogs.
Whippets are highly trainable, intelligent dogs, but they can be independent thinkers. They respond best to positive reinforcement and gentle training methods. Although they are athletic and enjoy running, their energy is typically short-lived, meaning they can adapt to less active households as long as they have opportunities for brief but intense exercise. They thrive in moderate climates, and care should be taken in extreme cold due to their thin coat.
Barking
Quiet
Loud
Temperament with Kids
Aggressive
Friendly
Playfulness
Silent
Very Playful
Friendliness
Not Friendly
Super Friendly
Compatibility with other dogs
Aggressive
Friendly
Need for attention
Independent
Very Needy
Monthly Food Expenses
₹ 2,250 - ₹ 3,000
Calories per day
Puppies: 1100 kcal
Adults: 800 kcal
Essential Nutrients
Carbohydrates
Protein
Fats
Fibre
Vitamins
Minerals
Omega3
List of foods
Dry Dog Food
Home made meals
Fresh Meat
Fresh Fish
Fruits
Vegetables
Chicken
Whippets, as athletic and energetic dogs, require a diet that can fuel their active lifestyle and support their lean muscle mass. A diet rich in protein is crucial for building and repairing muscle tissue, ensuring they have the strength and endurance needed for their daily activities. Healthy fats provide essential fatty acids that are vital for maintaining a healthy skin and coat, keeping their fur lustrous and preventing dryness. Carbohydrates are necessary for providing energy, but it's important to choose complex carbohydrates that are digested slowly, offering sustained energy throughout the day. This prevents sudden energy dips and ensures they can keep up with their playful nature. Vitamins and minerals play a critical role in overall health and immune function, helping them fight off diseases and maintain a strong body.
To maintain dental health, which is a common concern for Whippets, it's beneficial to choose dog food that promotes chewing. This can help reduce tartar buildup and prevent dental issues.
Note: These are general guidelines. Consult a veterinarian to determine the specific dietary needs of your dog.
Whippets thrive on a diet made from high-quality, natural ingredients. Dry dog food can form the base of their meals, provided it is of premium quality and meets their protein and fat needs. Look for dry food that contains meat as the first ingredient, with minimal fillers like corn or soy. A mix of dry kibble and fresh foods like cooked chicken, meat, and fish can help meet their nutritional requirements while providing variety.
Incorporating fresh vegetables and fruits like carrots, spinach, and blueberries into their diet is a great way to ensure they get natural sources of vitamins and antioxidants. Whippets can also benefit from homemade meals that focus on lean meats, cooked vegetables, and healthy fats, but it’s important to consult a vet to ensure the meals are nutritionally balanced.
Avoid anything with these ingredients
Almonds
Alcohol
Cinnamon
Dairy
Xylitol
Sugar
Salt
Avocados
Mushrooms
Whippets have sensitive stomachs, and certain foods or ingredients can lead to digestive issues. It’s important to avoid feeding them processed or low-quality dog food that contains artificial additives, preservatives, and fillers like corn, soy, and wheat, which can cause allergies or gastrointestinal upset. Cheap dog foods often have lower nutritional value and may lead to long-term health problems like obesity or poor coat quality.
Owners should also avoid giving Whippets fatty cuts of meat, which can lead to pancreatitis, and avoid feeding them foods that are toxic to dogs, such as chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, and raisins. Additionally, bones, especially cooked ones, can splinter and cause injury, so it’s safer to opt for high-quality, vet-approved chews instead.
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹ 600 - ₹ 1,200
Common Health Issues
Bloat
Canine distemper
Hip Dysplasia
Kennel Cough
Heartworm
Leptospirosis
Parvovirus
Parasites
Well being
Exercise
Agility Training
Bonding
Games
Socialization
Energy Level
High
Exercise routine
30 - 60 minutes
Recognising Stress
Changes in appetite
Excessive Barking
Excessive Panting
Reluctance to move
Pacing
Increased laziness
Decreased play
Whippets are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they are susceptible to specific health concerns. Common issues include bloat, a serious condition where the stomach fills with gas, hip dysplasia, and heartworm, a potentially deadly parasitic disease. Regular deworming and preventive care for parasites, such as fleas and ticks, are crucial, as is maintaining a healthy weight to avoid joint issues. Vaccinations for diseases like rabies, leptospirosis, and kennel cough are essential to keep the Whippet safe, especially if they regularly interact with other dogs.
Due to their athletic nature, Whippets need proper care to maintain their muscles and joints. As they age, hip dysplasia and other joint problems may become more prominent. It’s important to provide regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight and keep their muscles toned. Whippets are also susceptible to skin conditions like ringworm, due to their thin skin and coat, making it important to check for any skin irritations regularly. Preventative care, proper nutrition, and regular vet check-ups are key to ensuring long-term health.
Growth Stage
Core Vaccines
6-8 weeks
Distemper, Parvovirus
10-12 weeks
Distemper, Parvovirus
14-16 weeks
Rabies
18-20 weeks
Distemper, Parvovirus, Leptospirosis
As Whippets age, they may experience a decline in their agility and overall health. Regular vet checkups are critical to monitor for conditions like arthritis and hip dysplasia, which are more likely to develop in senior dogs. Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial in older Whippets to prevent undue stress on their joints. Nutritional adjustments, such as adding joint supplements (glucosamine and chondroitin) or switching to senior-formula dog food, can help improve mobility and quality of life.
Additionally, senior Whippets may require more attention to their dental health. Regular dental checkups and cleanings help prevent gum disease and tooth loss, which can be common in older dogs. Monitoring for early signs of diseases such as heart disease or cancer is important, as timely treatment can improve outcomes. Exercise should remain part of their daily routine, but the intensity and duration may need to be adjusted to suit their aging bodies.
Important Note: This information is for general guidance only. Always consult a qualified veterinarian for personalized advice.
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹ 700 - ₹ 1,200
Shedding Level
Low Shedding
Hygienic Checklist
Bathing
Brushing
Ear Cleaning
Nail Trimming
Eye Care
Teeth Care
Benefits of Grooming
Cleanliness
Low Shedding
Odourless
Prevents Bad Breath
Prevents infections
Quality of life
Whippets are a low-maintenance breed when it comes to grooming, thanks to their short, sleek coat that sheds minimally. Weekly brushing is sufficient to keep their coat in good condition and reduce the small amount of loose hair. Bathing can be done as needed, typically once every few months, to maintain cleanliness and a fresh odor. Regular nail trimming is essential to prevent discomfort or injury, as Whippets' nails can grow quickly. Additionally, teeth care is important to prevent dental disease, so brushing their teeth a few times a week is recommended to ensure healthy gums and prevent bad breath.
Cost of buying
₹ 20,000 - ₹ 50,000
Buying or adopting are the two main possibilities if you're thinking about getting a Whippet for your house.
Buying: Selecting a reliable breeder is crucial when purchasing a pet. Make sure the breeder gives the dogs the care they need and adheres to moral breeding procedures.
To confirm the dog's health and pedigree, request health certificates and lineage documentation.
Cost of a Whippet depends on a number of variables including ancestry, potential for show quality, and breeder reputation.
Adopting: Offering a needy pet a loving home through adoption is a fantastic choice. See if any breed-specific rescues, local animal shelters, or rescue organizations have a Whippet up for adoption.
Vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and initial medical care are usually included in adoption fees. These charges differ, but they are typically less than what it would cost to purchase from a breeder.
Willingness to train
Lifestyle Compatibility
Appropriate Climate
Access to Veterinary
Financial Capability
Now that you know what it takes to raise a Whippet, are you ready to take the next step to pet one?
Research: Do a thorough review of the traits, requirements, and possible health problems of the breed. Ensure that the Whippet breed is a good fit for your lifestyle.
Find Reputable Sources: When purchasing from breeders, look out for trustworthy breeders who have an emphasis on the temperament and well-being of the dogs. If you're thinking about adopting, check out the local rescue or animal shelters.
Visit the Breeder/Adoption Center: Make plans to meet the dogs or pups by scheduling a visit to the breeder or adoption center. Inquire about their health, immunization history, and socializing while keeping an eye on their living conditions.
Ask for documentation: Ask the breeder for vaccination records, health certificates, and any other relevant paperwork. If the dog is being adopted, find out about its past, present health, and behavior.
Prepare your home: Create a safe and comfortable space for your dog. Prepare your house for a puppy if you're adopting a young dog. Ensure you have the necessary supplies, including food, bowls, a bed, and grooming tools.
How well-suited are Whippets for severe weather conditions?
Whippets are susceptible to severe colds and heat. In the summer, offer cool places and shade; in the winter, offer shelter and warm bedding.
How can I provide my Whippet mental stimulation?
Utilize interactive games, puzzle toys, and obedience training to stimulate your Whippet's intellect. Having their minds stimulated is essential to their general health.
Are Whippets known for any particular vocalizations?
Whippets typically do not bark excessively, but they can make other sounds, like a soft whine or "rooing."
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