Whippets are a medium size dog averaging in weight from 11–15kg, with height of around 51cm for dogs and 47cm for bitches.  Because colour is considered immaterial in judging whippets, they come in a wide variety of colours and marking patterns, everything from solid black to solid white, with red, fawn, brindle, blue, or cream. All manner of spots and blazes and patches are seen, sometimes all in the same litter!

Whippets are very quiet and gentle dogs, and are usually content to spend much of the day resting. Although especially attached to their owners, they are friendly to visitors. They are not prone to snapping, are not hyperactive and boisterous and are very gentle so they are fantastic for families with young children. Because of their friendly nature whippets are known to have been used in aged care facilities. They are not barkers - so dont particularly make great guard dogs! Unlike what some may think - Whippets are NOT a nervous, neurotic breed of dog. All my Whippets have very happy, social and outgoing personalities!

Unlike some other breeds, male whippets are as easy to housetrain as females. Male whippets are also as docile as female whippets and are sometimes considered to be slightly more obedient. They can quite happily be around cats if raised with them - all my Whippets get along fine with my cat. They may however, chase other peoples cats or small furries. Having said that - I have taught my Whippets that it is undesireable and against the rules for them to chase small furries - so they live quite happily with our resident Bandicoots!

Whippets are not well-adapted for living as outside dogs. Their coats do not provide insulation to withstand prolonged periods in cold or hot temperatures. If you are not prepared to allow your Whippet inside the house - then its not the breed for you. Their natural attachment to people makes them happiest when kept indoors. They are most at home in the company of their owners in their lap or lying next to them on the lounge - be prepared to give up a spot up on the sofa if you bring home a Whippie!! Whippets are quiet and thus well suited to apartment life, small gardens or courtyards, although like all dogs they need regular, healthy exercise. The chance to run free in open spaces should be made available to the whippet; however care should be taken with whippets on the street as they have zero road sense it is difficult to instill this sort of training into them.

Given proper nutrition, exercise, and veterinary care, most whippets live for 12 to 15 years. They are a very sound breed, generally healthy and are not prone to the frequent ear infections, skin allergies, or digestive problems that can afflict other breeds. Fortunately in Australia - we are not required to health test for genetic problems in the Whippet as they are so rarely seen.

If you require any more information about whether a Whippet would suit your family and lifestyle - please do not hesitate to give me a call or email me.