The Whippet as we know it today was developed in Britain. However, what is less certain is the Whippet's ancestry. Some feel the breed was a mix between the Italian Greyhound and the Terrier, while others firmly believe the breed is related to the ancient Pharaoh Hound found in England since 55 BC and that it descends from selective breeding of small Greyhounds. The Whippet, however, has most likely existed since the fourteenth century and was often depicted in works of art, sculptures and paintings. The Whippet made its way to New England in North America when textile mill workers from Northern England brought the breed and the sport of racing with them in the early 1900's. Since that time, the Whippet's endearing personality has made it a favorite family pet, one that adapts well to city or country living. The Whippet loves human companionship and a good run every now and then.

Appearance
Whippets are a medium-size dog averaging in weight from 25 to 40 lbs, with height (under the FCI standard) of 18.5 inches for dogs and 17.5 inches for females. Whippets tend to be somewhat larger in the United States with show, coursing and some race Whippets required to be within the AKC standard of 18.5 to 22.5 inches for dogs, and 17.5 to 21.5 inches for females. Males tend to be one to two inches taller, and three to six pounds heavier, than females.

Character
Intelligent and laid back, Whippets are calm indoors and considerably sweet and docile. Whippets are independent and can never be fully trained. They require gentle training as they are sensitive both mentally and physically. Whippets will thrive when training involves games with running. Whippets have been known to chase down and kill cats, but will be okay with a cat that they have grown up with in the house or if the cat is dominant. The Whippet must have a warm, soft bed. It dislikes cold weather intensely and cannot be expected to live outside. The Whippet can play and run in snow and cold weather but should spend inactive times in warmer temperatures.
 

Temperament
Whippets are generally quiet and gentle dogs, content to spend much of the day sleeping. They are not generally aggressive towards other animals, and although especially attached to their owners, they are friendly to visitors. Whippets are not prone to snapping, so they are good with young children. Because of their friendly nature Whippets have often been known to be used in aged care facilities. They may or may not bark when strangers arrive, and are not suited to be guard dogs due to their trusting and unsuspicious nature. Whippets do however tend to attack cats that stray onto their territory. Outside, particularly when they are racing or lure coursing, they demonstrate their superb athletic skills and will pursue their “quarry” (even when it is an artificial lure) with the heart of a lion.

Unlike some other breeds, the Whippet males are as easy to housebreak, and no more aggressive, than females. Both sexes make excellent pets. Males are sometimes considered to be slightly more loyal and to enjoy repetitive play. Females can be a little more complex and strong-willed, but are equally devoted to their owners.

Exercise/Training
Whippets are quiet and thus well suited to apartment life, although they do need regular exercise. The chance to run free in open spaces should be made available to the whippet. 20 minutes obedience and playing with your Whippet will be more useful for the dogs exercise then a walk on the leash can provide.

Color
Because color is considered immaterial in judging Whippets, they come in a wide variety of colors 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.

Grooming
The hair is extremely short and fine, and the Whippet is virtually free of "doggy odor.” Grooming is minimal. A good nutrition and regular brushing keeps the proper coat shine and the skin healthy. Bathing doesn’t harm the coat of the Whippet as long as you use a good quality shampoo that doesn't dry the skin and coat and is formulated for a canine coat. The ears of the Whippet should be kept clean and regularly inspected as well.

Any breed described as "good with children", the dog must be accustomed to children. Any dog that is not well socialized with children will not behave predictably around them. As with all dogs, they should never be left alone with young children.