They are generally healthy, and are not prone to the frequent ear infections, skin allergies, or digestive problems that can afflict other breeds. Genetic eye defects, though quite rare, have been noted in the breed. Because of this, the American Whippet Club recommends that breeders test for this defect in their breeding stock. Hip dysplasia is rare in Whippets, with only 1.2% of 161 evaluations performed by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals being determined as dysplasic. Charles Compton, 7th Earl of Northampton by Batoni, 1758, featuring a dog that appears to be an early form of Whippet. Whippets are quiet and not prone to barking, but require regular exercise. They are generally gentle dogs and may be content to spend much of the day resting. The AKC describes them as 'quiet and dignified in their owner's living room' and says they make 'excellent house dogs.' Whippets have been called a 'poor man's racehorse' by the colliers in Lancashire and Yorkshire.
n/a
n/a