About the Whippet Breed
New to Sighthounds?
Whippets, Italian Greyhounds and Greyhounds are definitely not the same dogs in three sizes!
Although we know whippets are the perfect breed for us, we feel strongly that they are not perfect for everyone. It’s very important to do your research if you are considering a whippet. They are definitely not your neighbour’s labrador and are not a good fit for everyone, having many unique requirements and challenges.
Whippets & Prey Drive
Cats, Fences & Other Whippet Challenges
Please note that although some whippets do well living with indoor cats, there is always a significant degree of risk involved due to their inherent natural strong prey drive. Whippets are very good at doing what they were bred to do - chase, catch and kill small animals.
Due to this deeply ingrained trait, fencing can also be a challenge. If you have a backyard, it is imperative that it is very secure and fully fenced to a 5-6’ minimum height.
A whippet’s prey drive is a breed characteristic and not a “bad habit” to be addressed with training. If you can’t live with a prey-driven dog (and the lifestyle required by it), there are many other wonderful breeds that would be a much better choice!
Research & Resources
Sighthounds have unique requirements, so it is very important to do thorough research before deciding you would like a whippet to join your family. Please do not decide you want to buy a whippet unless you have actually met the breed in person. We look forward to introducing you to our dogs at public whippet events when spectators are welcome.
Suggested Reading:
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, whippets do shed… and not lightly. And they do bark… some of them, quite a bit! Whippet puppies aren’t born couch potatoes and can be truly wild until at least age two.
We often hear many of the same questions when people are considering a whippet for the first time. Here are our answers!