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Whippet Dog Breed Facts
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Breed: Whippet
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Also Called:
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Height: The Whippet is about 18-22 inches tall.
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Weight: The Whippet weighs between 26-28 lbs.
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Colors: The Whippet can be any color.
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Physical Appearance: The Whippet is a sighthound of medium size, with an overall impression and appearance of elegance, beautifully balanced muscular power, strength and fitness, accompanied by great speed, power and balance. Symmetry of outline, muscular development and powerful gait are to be of highest consideration. The Whippet is amiable, friendly and gentle, but is capable of great intensity during sporting pursuits. In the manner of a true working, sporting hound, it covers a maximum of distance with a minimum of wasted motion.
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Temperament/Personality: The Whippet is a hardy, tough, swift and powerful athlete with a stable and steady disposition. They can be aloof and may bark at strangers as they can become protective of their home. However, they are very friendly with family and those they know including children and pets.
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Care: The Whippet needs to be brushed occasionally and bathed when necessary.
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Health Concerns/Problems: The Whippet dog breed can suffer from the following health problems: athletic heart syndrome, myostatin mutations, and intolerance of barbiturate anaesthetics.
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Training: The Whippet does well with any kind of training.
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Activity: The Whippet needs vigorous exercise. He should be allowed to run free in an open space and taken on long walks regularly.
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Life Span: The Whippet lives an average life of 12-15 years.
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Litter Size: The Whippet has an average litter of 4-8 puppies.
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Country of Origin: The Whippet originated in Great Britain.
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Brief History: Developed in Great Britain as the "poor man's race horse," the Whippet is believed to include such breeds as the early working Terriers, the Greyhound and the Italian Greyhound, with a very possible influence by the Pharaoh Hound. Regardless of origin, the breed was used by the working class for sprint racing, a sport that was imported to the United States.
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