Whippet
A medium-sized sighthound giving the appearance of elegance and fitness, the Whippet denotes great speed, power and balance. In fact, the Whippet, an English Greyhound in miniature, is the fastest domesticated animal of his weight, capable of speeds up to 35 m.p.h. A very versatile breed, they can appear in a wide variety of colors and markings. Although keen when racing or coursing, they are quiet and dignified in their owner’s living room.
Having evolved for over a hundred years, it was not until 1891 that official recognition was given to the Whippet by the English Kennel Club. Used for racing early on, the breed was nicknamed "the poor man’s racehorse." Whippets were first brought to America by English mill operators of Massachusetts, which for many years was the center of Whippet racing in this country. Later the sport moved south to Maryland, particularly in Baltimore.
Breed Profile
The Whippet is an athlete and needs regular exercise. As with any breed it is also important that the Whippet has proper nutrition, vaccinations, and regular veterinary visits. Whippets are particularly well adapted for human companionship and make excellent house dogs.
Grooming
Whippets are a short flat coated breed that sheds throughout the year, even in the winter time. Grooming is suggested for 4 – 8-week intervals to clean ears, clip nails, check anal glands and insure the coat and skin are in healthy condition. [Accordion] Eyes: Eyes should be alert and bright. Use Opti-Soothe Eye Wash during the bath to flush any foreign matter.
Ears
Monthly ear cleaning with Ear Care is advised to be sure no ear problems that might need vet attention arise. Only clean as far as you can see, never further.
Bathing
Whippet’s require 2 baths when you bathe them. The first bath should be a general bath. If your Whippet has allergies or sensitive skin we would suggest a Hypo-Allergenic Shampoo and follow it with a medicated shampoo depending on your dog’s needs. If your Whippet has normal skin then the second bath you would want to pick one of our wonderful fragrant shampoos and conditioners. Follow the bath with a conditioner or Luxury Remoisturizer to keep the coat in great shape.
Paws
Paw Balm should be used weekly as well, paw pads that are soft and pliable are less likely to dry and crack.
Coat Care
Use Aloe Hydrating Spray between baths to control flaking and dandruff, especially in dry conditions
Show Dogs Tips
Silky Show Shampoo and Silky Show Conditioner will add silk proteins and shine to the coat as well as the Honey and Oat Conditioner. High Sheen Finishing Spray right before entering the show ring will add the little extra shine without any oily residue.
Common Problems
Whippet’s are sight hounds that love to chase things outdoors, so they are prone to minor scratches and wounds. Keep 3 in 1 Healing Cream on hand for those incidences.
May we suggest...
