The Whippet Dog

The Whippet dog originates from Great Britain dating back to the 1800's. Although its exact origins are unknown, many believe its ancestry includes one or more Greyhound breeds and several of the British Terrier breeds. In the past it was also referred to as "the poor man's greyhound" and as the "snap dog". The latter name derives from contests where people bet on which dog could "snap up" the most rabbits in competition. The "snap" contests were later replaced with simple racing competitions using artificial quarry. The Whippet is still used for racing, but the sport has never become as popular or well known as Greyhound racing. When observing the Whippet's build and gait, it is easy to see that it is built for speed and why it would be used as a racing dog. In fact over a short distance it can attain a speed of 40 mph (65 kph). In the field Whippet can be a fearless and robust hunter. In the home the it is an affectionate and responsive pet. It is very social and enjoys the company humans and of other dogs of the same breed. Popularity was slow in coming, but today the Whippet is the most popular sighthound.