Have you ever wondered what would happen if a greyhound fell in love with an Italian Greyhound? The answer – the Whippet, of course! This speedy little powerhouse is like a sports car in a dog suit…but is the Whippet a guard dog?
The Whippet, often referred to as the “Poor Man’s Racehorse,” was bred to dart and prance through the backyards of English miners. These dogs were purposefully developed for their speed and agility to chase after small game. And let’s not forget their unique aesthetics, which are reminiscent of an exquisite Italian sports car…compact, sleek, and built for speed.
Warm and affectionate, Whippets have earned a special place in the hearts of many pet lovers worldwide. In spite of their gentle temperament and athletic abilities, one query that often pops up among potential Whippet owners is whether or not these dogs would make a decent guard dog. Now, what was bred for speed and hunting might not gel well with guard duties… or will it? Let’s find out.
Firstly, decoding the term “guard dog” is crucial to understand if Whippets fit the bill. Typically, a guard dog’s role includes warning their owners about potential threats – whether by barking, growling, or showing aggressive behavior towards the subject. Sounds fierce, right? Now try to juxtapose this image with a Whippet who, in contrast, are generally sweet-natured, amicable, and more inclined to make friends than to ward off enemies.
Whippets are not inherently aggressive or territorial, making them less suitable as guard dogs compared to breeds like Rottweilers or German Shepherds. But wait! Let’s not reach a verdict just yet. Despite this apparent disadvantage, Whippets have certain traits that might come in handy when it comes to guarding their territory.
One key factor is their speed; Whippets are incredibly quick! They can sprint up to 35 mph, outpacing many other dog breeds. Now, imagine a potential intruder being chased down by a Whippet… The sheer surprise and pace could be enough to dissuade any criminal in their tracks!
Another notable guard-dog characteristic – the Whippet’s acute senses. Their keen eyesight and sharp hearing, a gift inherited from their Greyhound ancestors, aids them in detecting unusual sounds or movements. This sense of alertness can, at times, help warn their owners of possible intrusion or danger.
Despite these attributes, it’s key to remember that Whippets are quite sensitive and docile by nature. While they could potentially sound the alarm, their light build and benevolent temperament don’t exactly make them the best breed for physical protection. Also, their fondness for indoor living and desire for a warm, cozy couch to laze upon doesn’t boost their prospects of being round-the-clock sentries.
Training can also play a significant role in molding a Whippet’s guarding instinct. Well-trained Whippets can, in fact, be trained to be more alert and protective. However, pushing a Whippet too hard may lead to stress and anxiety, which is not advisable for this sensitive breed.
So, does a Whippet make a good guard dog? In a small capacity, perhaps. They can certainly surprise an unwanted visitor with their sudden burst of acceleration and can alert their owners to unusual occurrences. Yet, it’s important to remember that at the end of the day, they are gentle and kind-hearted dogs who crave companionship and love.
If you’re looking for a family dog that’s likely to welcome guests with a wagging tail as opposed to a menacing growl, then a Whippet might just be the perfect fit for you. A potential watchdog? Perhaps. But a full-time guard dog? Probably not. Nonetheless, a Whippet’s love and warm companionship will always assure you that you’ve gained a loyal friend for life.
