Have you ever seen a dog outrun a world-class sprinter?
Believe it or not, the sleek and slender whippet can reach mind-blowing speeds of up to 35 miles per hour1, making them one of the fastest accelerating animals on the planet!
If you’re curious to learn more about these lightning-fast canines, here are six facts about their amazing speed:
1. Unrivaled Acceleration Champions
When it comes to acceleration, whippets reign supreme in the dog world. These agile sprinters can go from 0 to 35 mph in just a few strides, thanks to their unique double-suspension gallop that allows them to be fully airborne at two separate points during each stride.
No other dog breed can match their explosive bursts of speed over short distances.
2. Outpacing Greyhounds in Short Sprints
Although greyhounds are renowned for their top speed, whippets can actually outpace them in short distances due to their superior acceleration.
In fact, a whippet named Reas won the American Kennel Club’s Fastest Dogs USA competition in 2022 with an average speed of 34.98 mph over a 100-yard course, solidifying their status as speed legends. (ref)
3. The Secret to Super Speed: A Gene Mutation
Scientists have discovered that a mutation in the myostatin (MTSN) gene can enhance muscle mass and boost racing performance in whippets.
Whippets with one mutated copy of the gene are more muscular and often dominate the breed’s fastest racers, while those with two mutated copies have an excess of muscle but rarely excel in competitions. (ref)
4. Bred for the Thrill of the Chase
Whippets were originally developed in England in the 1800s by crossing smaller greyhounds with terriers, resulting in a fast, agile dog perfect for hunting rabbits and racing.
Their sleek, aerodynamic build and deep chest enable them to reach breakneck speeds while maintaining their balance and agility, making them the ultimate hunting and racing machines.
5. Versatile Athletes in Dog Sports
Thanks to their incredible speed and agility, whippets excel in various dog sports beyond racing, such as lure coursing, agility, flyball, and flying disc competitions.
They consistently rank among the top performers in events like the American Kennel Club’s Fast CAT (Coursing Ability Test) and Fastest Dogs USA, showcasing their versatility and athletic prowess.
6. From Speed Demons to Couch Potatoes
Despite their love for running at high speeds, whippets have a surprising couch potato side when not in action. They are content to spend most of their day relaxing on the sofa, cuddling with their owners, and enjoying the warmth of a cozy home.
Just make sure to give them a chance to stretch their legs and run a couple of times a day to keep these speed demons happy and healthy.
Managing Your Whippet’s High Energy & Love for Running
As a breed, whippets are known for their incredible speed and love of running. While their bursts of energy can be impressive, it’s important to provide them with appropriate outlets and activities to keep them happy and healthy.
Here are some tips for managing your whippet’s high energy and love for running:
- Provide ample daily exercise: Adult whippets need at least an hour of exercise per day, which should include opportunities for running and aerobic activity. This can be split into multiple sessions throughout the day.
- Allow for off-leash running: Give your whippet chances to run off-leash in safe, enclosed areas like fenced yards or dog parks.
- Go on “sniff walks”: Allow your whippet to explore their environment at their own pace during walks, encouraging them to sniff and investigate. Sniffing is a calming activity that engages their mind and helps burn energy.
- Practice recall training: Work on your whippet’s recall skills so that you can safely allow them off-leash time in appropriate areas. Use high-value treats and positive reinforcement to encourage them to come when called.
Every whippet is an individual, and their energy levels may vary. Pay attention to your dog’s needs and adjust their exercise and activity routine accordingly.
Source:
1. hepper.com
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.