Whippet

History

Also known as the “poor man’s racehorse”, the Whippet’s origins stem from the sport of setting “snapdogs” after rabbit. These snapdogs were released in a small pit where they were timed to see how quickly they could dispatch several rabbits. By crossing terriers with small greyhounds, breeders produced an agile and capable dog that soon dominated the sport. When it was banned, Whippets were used in a lure or “rag” racing. When Lancashire textile workers immigrated to New England in the early 1900s, they brought their Whippets, and the sport of lure coursing, with them. The Whippet can run up to 35 miles an hour.

Personality

Though a racing Whippet is the perfect picture of speed, he is an easy-going and relaxed individual, always ready to curl up on the couch and snuggle. He is attached to his people and gets along with children, strangers and other dogs. Outdoors, it is important to keep him in a safely enclosed area or on a leash.

Whippet Breeders:

AUTHOR PROFILE

Canadian Dogs

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