Lévrier whippet

It resembles the Pharaoh Greyhound and some claim it was probably introduced during the Roman conquest of England in 55 BC. The origin of the breed seems to date back rather to 15th century England. Known since the 17th century in northern England, where it was used in place of the fox terrier for rabbit hunting, the breed was only established at the end of the 19th century, by the introduction of terrier and small greyhound blood. It was only recognized as such in 1899, after serious selection carried out from the 1880s. At that time, workers and miners in the industrial regions of northern England, passionate about rabbit hunting races, but subject to the ban on owning greyhounds (a royal family privilege), selected this small lively dog from his noble cousin, the greyhound, and various contributions, including the Bedlington Terrier and the small Italian Greyhound.

The Whippet is easy to live with, sensitive and extremely affectionate towards his master. Quiet by nature, he adapts well to city life in an apartment, provided he can exercise regularly during frequent and long walks. His vitality makes him the ideal companion for joggers. He does not like loneliness but tolerates it calmly if taught to do so.

Its name derives from whip it, which means "whip it up!" or "go!" an injunction that bettors shouted to their favorites during races. In England, it is entered in greyhound races under the name "poor man's racehorse". The Whippet combines great elegance with real athletic qualities. It represents a model of grace and power. Its head is long, on a beautiful neck and a chest very prominent at the level of the heart. The ribs are well curved. Its broad and firm back forms a distinct arch at the loin level, but without excess. Gaits are free and frank. Weight: male 12 to 15 kg; female 10 to 13 kg. Height: male 47 to 53 cm; female 44 to 49 cm. For the past few years, the official size has been modified in France, with a tolerance of +/- 2 cm for height and a tolerance of 200 g on the maximum weight allowed. The Whippet is the most widespread greyhound in France (in 2005, it represents 46% of provisional greyhound registrations with the LOF with the SCC). It is used as a racing dog and companion dog. Bold, effective and fast, it is capable of reaching a speed of over 55 km/h on average with record spikes of 80 km/h over short distances, making it one of the fastest greyhounds.

The average longevity of the Whippet is about fifteen years. It is robust, but it fears cold, drafts and rain. It is very rarely sick.