In a nutshell: A high-drive couch potato. A nice sized dog, competitive with the BC’s and Aussies in speed and athleticism. 

Description: A slim sighthound that comes in many color combinations, including brindles. Well sprung chest, long tail which is down when not excited and curled over slightly when happy. With a slim head, slight bulge in black eyes and animated ears. Slightly larger than a Midi.

Temperament: In the house, quiet soft dog. Very kind but can be protective. On the agility course, very high drive nice working dog. Very affectionate and cuddly.

Advantages as an agility dog:

• Speedy

• Athletic - jumps a mile!

• High drive, when needed

• Long lasting

Disadvantages as an agility dog:

• Jumping style. Tends to take off much earlier than the average dog her size, and lands much further away as well, making tight courses tougher

• Can have a different agenda - like if it sights prey

• Is not always eager to please handler

Rating out of 10 and why: 1/10. Pet whippet owners tend not to be the type to stay serious with agility as there is no immediate gratitude. Most whippet clubs focus on conformation and/or coursing.

Examples of dogs that have done well in agility: Ray Ellerton. In the USA Candy Gaiser in Northern California, has whippets that have are on the USDAA top ten list. Even there not many have got beyond Starters/Novice.

What's it like to live with as a pet: Having a Whippet is wonderful. They are nice in the house pets. Very happy, laid back, very playful, good sense of humour. They like to curl in laps and sleep under covers. What could be describes as an 'instant on instant off' dog. Will sleep or chew a bone quietly but is always ready to play or train no matter what. Very affectionate and loving if you are having a bad day, or not feeling well.

Would you buy another one for agility? I will always have a whippet. I will always do agility. If I just wanted to do agility and I didn’t care about the dog, I’d get a different breed.