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Some
pros and cons of Whippet ownership
Whippets
are wonderful companions. They are "house dogs" and must
have a warm, soft place to rest and sleep - most will prefer your bed.
Is a Whippet right for your family? Each Whippet is an individual, but here are a few general
points to consider:
Pros
Medium size - around 26 - 38 pounds.
Healthy - few health problems in the breed.
Affectionate - the Whippet is a devoted
companion who will want to stay by your side and enjoy snuggling
on the sofa with you.
Active - Whippets enjoy going for walks,
playing catch or frisbee, and participating organized activities
such as lure coursing.
Intelligent - the Whippet is quick to learn
and fairly easy to train in basic obedience.
Easy to groom - short, silky coat; easy
to bathe; nails should be trimmed weekly or bi-weekly.
Moderate shedding and little to no "doggy odor" -
all dogs shed - the Whippet is no exception.
Cons
Active - puppies and young adults are very
active and must have several full-out exercise periods every
day, including running in a safely fenced yard, to maintain their physical and mental well-being.
Destructive - many puppies and young adults
will chew and destroy household items if allowed free rein
of your home. Fortunately, most Whippets grow out of this
behavior, but until then, "puppy-proofing" is a must.
Needy - some Whippets can be unhappy and
bored if left alone for ten-hour workdays. This can result
in howling, barking, and physical distress for the dog. This
behavior may be reduced or eliminated by adding another Whippet
or other pet to the family. Two pets may be content in each
other's company during work-time hours.
Strong chase instinct - most Whippets have
strong prey drive (not surprising considering what they were
bred to do) and will chase, and sometimes capture and kill,
rabbits, squirrels, cats, and other animals, if allowed the
opportunity. Whippets may live peacefully with small pets,
including cats, if raised with them from puppyhood.
Thin-skinned - no, I don't mean "emotionally sensitive." The
Whippet is a high-speed runner, and that short, silky coat offers little protection
from
scrapes, abrasions or other minor injuries. The thin skin tears fairly easily,
requiring a trip to the vet for sutures.
Independent - the Whippet is intelligent and may choose to be
obedient when he feels like it! Most Whippets, even those who are trained in
obedience,
cannot
be
allowed
off-lead (see above on chase instinct).
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Photos
courtesy of Tami Baird