Whippet Dogs - Pictures

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Whippet Dogs - History of the Breed

Whippets are sometimes described as "all purpose dogs." The exact origin of the Whippet Dog is unclear. It is known that Whippet Dogs developed in Northern England in the 19th century. In order to produce a small swift capable hound that will hunt rabbits and other small animals, Greyhounds were crossed with small terriers. First, the Whippet Dog was known as the "poor man's greyhound" or the "poor man's race horse." They were the dogs of factory and farm workers in Northern towns near Liverpool and Manchester. Owners raced their hounds in fields or on town roads during their days off. "Rag races" got very popular then. The Kennel Club of England first recognized Whippets in 1891. The AKC first recognized the dog belonging to the Whippet breed in 1888. Whippets of the present day are extremely popular at dog shows. They excel in strait racing, flyball, lure coursing, agility matches and obedience training.

Whippet Dogs - with Children

Whippets are affable dogs. However, the screaming, prodding and chasing of children can be too much for a Whippet to bear and be satisfied with. Families with older children who are mature enough to care for the dog and treat it with respect are potential Whippet owners.

Whippet Dogs - Origin of the Breed Name

Originally, the word "whippet" comes from the Latin word "via," which means "a road, a path or a way." These words were associated with movement and speed. There is an opinion that "whip" derives from the Middle English and means "to move swiftly or smartly." Consequently, swift and smart dogs were called Whippets.

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