Whippet

Feeding a Whippet requires understanding their unique metabolism and body composition. These dogs are naturally lean - what might look "too skinny" to someone unfamiliar with the breed is actually perfect condition. Maintaining this lean physique is crucial for their health and athletic performance.

Because Whippets are prone to bloat, never feed them one large meal. Instead, divide their daily food allowance into two or three smaller meals. Puppies should eat at least three times daily, transitioning to twice daily as adults. A slow-feeder bowl can help if your Whippet tends to gulp their food - a common trait in the breed.

Choose a high-quality commercial dog food appropriate for their life stage. Adult Whippets typically need between 1-1.5 cups of premium dry food daily, but this varies based on age, activity level, and individual metabolism. Active racing or coursing dogs may need more, while couch potatoes might need less. Your vet can help determine the right amount for your individual dog.

Timing is everything with these athletes. Never exercise your Whippet immediately after eating - wait at least two hours to prevent bloat. Many Australian owners find it easier to feed after exercise rather than before, especially if they're planning beach runs or park sessions.

Fresh water should always be available, particularly important during Australia's hot summers. During intense exercise or warm weather, bring water along on walks. Remember, these dogs have very little body fat to draw on, so consistent, quality nutrition is essential for maintaining their health and that gorgeous, sleek appearance that makes heads turn at your local dog park.

Here's some good news for busy Australian families - Whippets are about as low-maintenance as dogs get when it comes to grooming. Their short, smooth coat requires minimal fuss, making them perfect for our active lifestyles.

A weekly brush with a soft-bristled brush or grooming mitt is usually enough to remove dead hair and keep their coat gleaming. During spring shedding season, you might need to brush more frequently, but even then, we're talking maybe twice a week. Their shedding is minimal year-round, which is fantastic for keeping your home (and your black work clothes) relatively hair-free.

Bathing should be occasional - only when they're genuinely dirty or smelly. Their thin skin is sensitive, so always use a gentle, dog-specific shampoo. Many Australian Whippet owners find that a quick rinse after beach visits or muddy park adventures is often sufficient.

Pay special attention to their delicate skin during grooming sessions. Check for cuts, scrapes, or irritation, especially on their legs where the skin is thinnest. Their love of high-speed zoomies means minor injuries are fairly common. Keep some basic wound care supplies handy - you'll likely need them at some point.

Don't forget the basics: trim nails regularly (those long legs mean their nails don't always wear down naturally), clean ears weekly with a dog-safe solution, and brush teeth several times a week. Their ears should be checked for any signs of infection - redness, odor, or discharge warrant a vet visit.

The real grooming challenge isn't their coat - it's keeping them warm! Invest in quality dog coats, sweaters, and even pyjamas for cooler weather. In places like Melbourne, Canberra, or during those surprisingly chilly Sydney winter mornings, your Whippet will genuinely need clothing to stay comfortable.

Training a Whippet is like working with a sensitive, intelligent athlete who happens to have the attention span of... well, a sighthound. They're actually among the most trainable of the sighthound breeds, but you'll need patience and the right approach.

These dogs respond beautifully to positive reinforcement training. Harsh corrections or raised voices will likely cause them to shut down entirely - remember, they're sensitive souls. Use treats, praise, and play as rewards, and keep training sessions short and engaging. Many Australian dog training clubs offer classes specifically designed for sighthounds, which can be incredibly helpful.

Early socialisation is absolutely crucial. Expose your Whippet puppy to different people, animals, environments, and situations while they're young. This helps build confidence and prevents them from becoming overly timid or reactive. Dog sports like agility, nose work, or lure coursing can provide excellent mental stimulation and bonding opportunities.

Now, about exercise - this is where things get interesting. Whippets are sprinters, not marathon runners. They need intense bursts of activity followed by long periods of rest. A couple of good runs in a securely fenced area, some daily walks, and interactive play sessions will keep them happy. Many Australian owners love taking their Whippets to off-leash dog parks or beaches where they can safely stretch their legs.

Here's the crucial bit: never, ever let your Whippet off-leash in an unfenced area. Their prey drive is incredibly strong, and they can disappear over the horizon faster than you can blink. A securely fenced backyard is ideal, but they can adapt to apartment living with adequate exercise. Activities like fetch, flirt pole games, or even indoor zoomies can help burn energy when outdoor time is limited.