Top Activities For Whippets

Introduction

Whippets are one of the most elegant-looking dog breeds that you will ever lay your eyes on. This dog breed is medium-sized and resembles a Greyhound. In fact, the Whippet is nicknamed as the “poor man’s Greyhound” and has been around since the 18^th century. This working class dog was developed for multiple purposes, primarily involving farm work. Due to their background and history, Whippets have developed athleticism and agility. This is why the breed is currently a favorite for competitive canine sports. Aside from their physical capabilities, however, the Whippet is popular among dog owners because of their friendliness and gentleness towards others. For owners of this exquisite dog breed, below are some brilliant activity ideas that you may try with your Whippet.

DIY Lure Coursing

Most Popular

1 Vote

Sunny Day

Cheap

Easy

30 min

Items needed

Pole

Lure or bait

Activity description

If there is one activity that the Whippet is well known for, it’s got to be in lure coursing, a famous canine competitive sport. Unfortunately, not all dog owners are familiar with lure coursing, or any dog sporting event for that matter; it is usually the enthusiasts who know about them. Simply put, lure coursing is a sport wherein a dog chases after a lure or a bait that is attached to a mechanical pulley. This sport is normally played on a “course” and may or may not involve obstacles. Because of their agility, speed and athleticism, Whippets often participate and usually excel in lure coursing. While it is largely competitive, Whippet owners can create their own “course” in order to exercise or wear out their dogs.

Step

1

Create your own lure

To turn your dog into a lure coursing athlete, you will have to dole out some cash on a lure coursing club or a lure coursing machine. While these may be worth the money if you plan to turn your Whippet into a serious lure coursing contender, they are too pricey for dog owners who simply want to do lure coursing for recreation. In this case, you can simply make your own lure. All you will need is a fishing line and a toy or a plastic bag. Attach the toy or bag at the end of the line; this will serve as your lure.

Step

2

Get your Whippet running

Get your dog’s attention by waving the lure. Once they are focused, place the lure on the ground directly in front of your dog and start to release the line while you walk further from your dog. Once you are at the other end of your “course”, reel the lure in and watch as your dog runs after the lure. In case your dog is not interested in your lure, motivate them by adding some treats or using their favorite toy.

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Therapy Dog Training

Popular

1 Vote

Any Day

Moderate

Normal

1 to 2 hrs

Items needed

Leash

Activity description

Whippets are good-natured, calm and comforting, which is why a lot of dog lovers have a soft spot for the breed. More than likeability, these qualities also make Whippets a great choice for therapy dog training. When you let your Whippet undergo this training, you reinforce their kind, loving nature and help make a difference in the lives of others as well. Whippets are unsung heroes in the communities of the disabled, terminally ill and the elderly. In fact, due to the Whippet’s popularity as a therapy dog, there is a privately-sponsored award, known as the Willow Award, which was established to honor some of the top Whippet therapy dogs each year.

Step

1

Get your dog certified

A thorough training conducted by professionals is necessary before a Whippet can become a therapy dog. This means that your dog will have to go through formal training in order to be certified as a therapy dog. Luckily, there are lots of organizations that offer therapy training, such as Therapy Dog International and Intermountain Therapy Animals. All you have to do is register your dog, pay all the necessary fees and let your Whippet go through the training.

Step

2

Watch your dog be a hero

When the therapy dog training has concluded, it is then time to put your dog’s training to the test. Find a program or community where you would like your dog to serve as a therapy dog. Owners are normally asked to be present when their dogs serve. It is definitely a heartwarming moment to watch as your dog brightens lives and helps give joy to people who need it.

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Hit The Beach

Popular

0 Votes

Sunny Day

Cheap

Easy

1 hr

Items needed

Food

Water

Leash

Activity description

Whippets are an active dog breed that needs stimulation. They also have a knack for running around and simply having fun. If you want a fun day out with your pooch, why not pay a visit to the beach? Going to the beach also gives you a chance to teach your Whippet how to swim. Unlike other dog breeds, particularly the water-retrieving types, the Whippet isn't as buoyant. This is because of their slender physique and oily coat, which does not allow them to stay long in cold water. When you are done swimming, you can go do other activities by the shore.

Step

1

Find a beach

Beaches are found across various cities in the United States, so it should not be too difficult to find one in your area or one that is driving distance away. Take into account the rules of the beach you want to go to; some beaches do not allow dogs to be off-leash while some don’t allow them at all. Thus, be sure to pick out one your dog can truly enjoy.

Step

2

Spend time with your dog

Upon arrival at your beach of choice, pay the necessary fees (if any) and spend some quality time with your dog. The shore is a great spot for playing fetch or chase with your Whippet. Obviously, you can also go swimming with your pooch. You may even have a picnic after the exhausting swim. Beaches are a great venue for doing dog-friendly activities.

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More Fun Ideas...

Flyball

Since Whippets are impressive sprinters, they are a particularly good choice for the sport of flyball. This is a relay sport where dogs jump across hurdles and onto a contraption that shoots out balls. Their speed and intelligence are advantageous to the game.

Agility Training

Agility training is a fun activity for your Whippet, especially if you want them to develop new tricks and skills. You can do a search online and look for ways to create your own agility course, which your dog can use as a training ground.

Conclusion

Whippets are an athletic and agile breed which needs to engage in various highly energetic activities. Owning a Whippet may require a lot of patience and physical movement, but the rewards are well worth it. If you are a Whippet owner, you can keep your dog entertained by trying any of the above activity ideas.