How to Care for a Whippet

"Whip It" is not just that hit Devo song from the 80s—Whippet is also the name for an affectionate and mild-mannered dog that was initially bred from a terrier, the larger Greyhound and smaller Italian Greyhound. A generally healthy and long-lived breed—Whippets are relatively low maintenance—yet like all dogs—need the proper maintenance. The following are some tips for keeping your Whippet healthy.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. 

   Spay/neuter your Whippet for a happier, healthier pet. Spaying your female before the first heat period will prevent breast cancer and help eliminate uterine infections. Neutering your male before age 4 will eliminate the chance of testicular cancer, help eliminate prostate problems and curb aggression.

2. Keep your Whippet’s vaccinations up to date and go for regular medical checkups. You can also do a monthly home exam of the skin, eyes, ears, nose, teeth and gums. Stay current on flea and heartworm preventative.

3. Have your Whippet’s teeth professionally cleaned and scaled every year, more frequently if recommended by your veterinarian.

4. 

   Feed your Whippet a healthy, quality dog food to maintain a graceful and slender physique. Meat should be the first ingredient listed and it should contain the proper balance of protein, carbs, fats, fiber, vitamins and minerals. Or you can feed a homemade diet.

5. 

   Have an enclosed yard for your Whippet to run around, even a small yard will do. Whippets will also do fine in an apartment with regular brisk walks, play sessions and a chance to run every so often. They love to be couch potatoes, but keep in mind they also love to run!

6. Brush your Whippet’s coat with a firm bristle brush and bathe only when necessary. The rest of the time, an occasional wipe with a damp washcloth should do.

7. Keep your Whippet’s nails trimmed to a comfortable length.

8. Give your Whippet plenty of love and attention. They thrive on it.

Tips & Warnings

• Whippets are thin-skinned and very sensitive to cold. It’s a good idea to put a dog jacket or sweater on your Whippet during the winter.
• As a breed, Whippets tend to be stubborn, but do well in obedience training, agility and games such as flyball and Frisbee.
• Whippets are extremely sensitive to surrounding stress and abrupt changes in their routine.
• Your Whippet may be prone to stomach upset and skin problems.
• Always keep a leash on your Whippet if not in an enclosed area. Whippets are very quick and are sighthounds with an instinct to chase after smaller animals that they could possibly kill or injure.

Resources

• Southern California Whippet Association Rescue