Character and temperament
The Whippet is an elegant and athletic sighthound, renowned for its speed, grace and gentle temperament. Appreciated as much for its performance in the field as for its role as a faithful companion, it is today a versatile dog that appeals to many fanciers. But where does this little sighthound with its expressive gaze and thoroughbred appearance come from?
Its history goes back centuries and reflects its evolution from a hunting and racing dog to a true member of the family.
An ideal companion dog
The Whippet is a gentle, affectionate and discreet dog, who thrives alongside his master. He is particularly attached to his human and seeks contact, loving to curl up on a sofa or share moments of tenderness. Not a barker and with a calm nature indoors, he adapts perfectly to life in an apartment or house, as long as he gets enough exercise on a daily basis.
A high-performance and elegant athlete
Behind its graceful appearance, the Whippet is a true athlete. Fast, enduring and agile, it excels in sports disciplines such as lure pursuit (PVL), canicross or agility. Its need to exercise must be taken into account, because it is a dog that enjoys sprints and free runs in secure spaces.
A hunting instinct always present
Coming from a line of hunters, the Whippet retains a highly developed pursuit instinct. Its sharp eye and speed make it a formidable hunter of small game, particularly hares and rabbits. Although some individuals can live with small domestic animals if they have been accustomed to them when young, its instinct can sometimes take over during unexpected encounters outdoors.
A balanced family companion
The Whippet is a gentle and sociable dog, who gets along well with children thanks to his patient and delicate temperament. He enjoys the company of other dogs and can live in a pack without difficulty. Although he can be reserved with strangers, he is rarely aggressive and prefers to observe before interacting.
A sensitive and intelligent dog
Very receptive to its environment, the Whippet is a sensitive dog that does not appreciate abruptness or overly firm training methods. It responds well to positive approaches and gentle learning. Its intelligence and adaptability make it an easy-going dog, capable of quickly understanding its owner's expectations.
Balance between independence and attachment
Although he may seem independent when he runs at full speed, the Whippet is actually a dog very attached to his family. He does not like prolonged solitude and needs regular presence to be fully fulfilled. His balance is based on a beautiful combination of moments of activity and moments of rest in contact with his loved ones.
With its harmonious temperament, the Whippet is a dog that is both elegant and sporty, calm and dynamic, independent but very affectionate. A real gem for those who know how to offer it the right environment!