Whippets

Palerie-head

After much careful consideration and much deliberation, the other half and I have finally agreed that the time is right for a new addition to the ph household.

So, we have researched and researched and think that a Whippet would be the ideal fit for us. I'd appreciate some info from any Whippet owners out there who can give us some first hand info on what they're like as pets.

Very briefly, there are no kids in the home and it is just the 2 of us. We work in the week and would be out of the house from 7.30 until 6, but we have made provision to either have him/her looked after at a relative's house in the day or for someone to at least pop in a couple of times whilst we're out to keep him/her company and walk him.

It sounds like they have a great personality and are really lovely pets - would anyone agree?

Not sure if to get one from pup or go the rescue dog route. I really like the idea of a rescue dog, but not sure if they come too set in their ways and with too many 'issues' for us to handle, as this will be our first dog.

Any helpful advice would be appreciated!! Then of course, any advice on where the best places to go to get him/her from would be good!

Cheers

ph.

RooBee

I know you're asking about whippets, but have you considered a rescue greyhound? Most are retired racers that just want a comfy sofa and some company once their 'career' is over. They are generally considered good for people in your type of situation as they sleep a lot while you are out and don't require much exercise at all. Some will have spent their lives in kennels and you may need to housetrain but this is generally accomplished fairly quickly.

If you are set on a whippet, one of the breed clubs would be the best place to start. They should be able to direct you to breeders in your area; many of whom will be happy to have you visit to meet their dogs and learn about the breed. The breed clubs will also be able to point you in the direction of the breed rescue if it is a rescue dog you particularly want. If you decide on a puppy, then the breeders recommended by the club will have to abide by the club's code of ethics which means that the majority of pups will be bred with the intention of furthering the breed (in terms of health, temperament and conformation) and not simply churning out puppies to make money.

http://www.thewhippetclub.com/

http://www.greyhoundrescue.co.uk/

Catw0man

Can I just congratulate you on deciding to adopt a dog
Taking on a rescue can be an extremely rewarding experience, I am involved with Give a Greyhound a Home in Scotland, and I have 2 rescue lurchers, one is a whippet cross terrier. My two both came to me after being picked up as strays, and the larger one does have a few issues. If you were to take on a rescue, a good rescue centre will pair you with a dog that suits you.
I haven't had any personal experience with whippets myself but if they are anything like greyhounds (whippets originated from a cross betwee a greyhound and a terrier) they will be lazy, and great companions!
Good luck with your search for the perfect dog, we have a 'dog talk' forum on GAGAH where I'm sure there will be plenty of dog owners, (greyhounds, whippets, lurchers as well as many others) willing to give advice!

JennyW_2

It would be very rewarding to rescue a dog and no, they don't all come with "issues" - so many dogs are in a home because they are unwanted pets

A greyhound would make a great pet for you both. I have one and they love to sleep when at home and very undemanding dogs. Plus there are thousands out there desperately looking for their forever sofa

For any more doggie advice, check out
https://www.dogpages.org.uk

pboae

I'd also suggest going down the rescue route, 7.30-6 is far far too long to leave a puppy, even with someone popping in occasionally. It would just be asking for problems with house training and destructive behaviour.

Older dogs are more likely to be content sleeping all day, especially ex racers who have been trained to be left alone a lot. Puppies need company and they need training, especially in those early months.

JennyW_2

pboae wrote: »

I'd also suggest going down the rescue route, 7.30-6 is far far too long to leave a puppy, even with someone popping in occasionally. It would just be asking for problems with house training and destructive behaviour.

Older dogs are more likely to be content sleeping all day, especially ex racers who have been trained to be left alone a lot. Puppies need company and they need training, especially in those early months.

yes leaving a pup for more than a couple of hours tops will cause long term behavioural issues. An ex-racer or an older dog will be more than content to sleep until you get home. Ex-racers have done a lot of living by the time they reach 2 years old so are more than happy to just sleep their time away, compared to a regular dog at this age.

My two are left from 7.30 to 1pm during the weekdays. They have a good walk in the mornings, breakfast then sleep until I come home - they know the routine

tracex

I've had a Whippet since a pup and he is a smashing, loyal pet. Ours has an hour walk per day and is completely shattered for the rest of the day. They do relish company, hence we have another dog. I'm around all the time but I have to be careful as he is prone to seperation anxiety. I would never leave him more than 3 hours on his own as he will whine if left for longer. He's never done any damage in the house and has the most gentle nature. Mine gets cramp quite a lot but I think this is down to him being born deformed and carrying too much muscle. He doesn't enjoy rough and tumble games with you and will screech if you stroke him too hard. If it's a 'stay by your side' pooch with a kind disposition then I'd definately recommend one.