Breed: Whippet
Temperament: Affectionate, timid
Lifespan: 12 years
Maintenance: low
Recommended for: families

If you want a dog that's big, strong and macho - stop reading! But if you are a gentle person that wants a dog that is totally safe with the kids and will be a sweet member of the family, you simply can't go past a Whippet.

Appearance

The Whippet looks like a miniature Greyhound, sleek, lithe and built for speed. They reach 44-47cm (17 1/2-18 1/2"), and are available in black, red, brindle, fawn, blue or a mixture of these.

Temperament

Whippets have outstanding temperaments, being friendly, affectionate and easy-going. They are said to be dogs which are very sensitive to the mood of their owners, and will behave accordingly. They do, however, love a chase and small fluffy animals may be at risk if a Whippet is off the leash!

Health

The Whippet is one of the soundest dogs seen by vets, and doesn't appear to suffer from any major hereditary diseases. There are generally few problems whelping, producing 4 to 8 pups per litter. Whippets love running and collisions can cause injuries.

Space & exercise

Whippets may be kept indoors although they will need a daily walk.

Ideal owner and grooming

These are ideally-suited to most situations; retirees, families with children, or couples. They are said to be particularly tolerant of children. In fact they are included on the Burke's Backyard recommended dogs list for children under 10. They are small, sleek and quiet and make it an ideal house dog. They need little grooming just a rubdown with a hound glove and bathing when needed.

Uses

Whippets are companion dogs and although they don't need constant attention, they can become bored if left too much to their own devices. Some groups occasionally have lure-chasing days. They are not considered a watch or guard dog.

National contacts

To find up-to-date contacts for breeders, contact the following organisations.

Dogs NSW
http://www.dogsnsw.org.au/breeders-directory
Email: info@dogsnsw.org.au
Phone: 1300 728 022 (NSW only) or (02) 9834 3022
Fax: (02) 9834 3872

Dogs Victoria
http://www.vca.org.au
Email: office@dogsvictoria.org.au
Phone: (03) 9788 2500
Fax: (03) 9788 2599

Dogs ACT
http://www.actca.asn.au
Email: info@dogsact.org.au
Phone: (02) 6241 4404 - Fax: (02) 6241 1129.

Dogs West
http://www.cawa.asn.au
Email: k9@dogswest.com
Phone: (08) 9455 1188
Fax: (08) 9455 1190

Dogs SA
http://dogssa.com.au
Phone: (08) 8349 4797

Canine Control Council of Queensland
http://www.cccq.org.au
Email: dogsqld@powerup.com.au
Phone: (07) 3252 2661
Fax: (07) 3252 3864

Tasmanian Canine Association
http://www.tasdogs.com
Email: tca@iprimus.com.au
Phone: (03) 6272 9443
Fax: (03) 6273 0844

Dogs NT
http://www.territorydogworld.com
Email: naca3@bigpond.com
Phone: (08) 8984 3570
Fax: (08) 8984 3409

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