Whippet Harness: Finding the right harness for you!

History of the Whippet

The history of the Whippet is as fascinating as the breed itself. Known for their elegance, speed, and gentle nature, Whippets have won the hearts of dog lovers worldwide. Let's delve into the captivating past of these graceful canines and discover how they came to be.

Originating in England during the 18th century, Whippets were bred as a result of crossing small Greyhounds with various Terrier breeds. This unique combination aimed to create a compact yet swift dog that could excel in racing and hunting small game. The name "Whippet" is believed to have derived from the word "whip," as these dogs were often used in racing and needed to be as quick as a whip.

Initially, Whippets were popular among the working class in Northern England, particularly coal miners and weavers. These individuals sought a form of entertainment that was both affordable and thrilling, and Whippet racing quickly became a beloved pastime. The sport involved chasing a mechanical lure around a track, and Whippets proved to be exceptional racers, reaching speeds of up to 35 miles per hour. As time went on, Whippets caught the eye of the English aristocracy, who recognized their elegance and beauty. The breed gradually transitioned from a working-class favourite to a fashionable companion for the upper class. Whippets were often seen accompanying their well-heeled owners during leisurely strolls in the park or lounging by the fireplace in luxurious estates.

In the early 19th century, Whippets made their way across the Atlantic to the United States. Here, they continued to charm dog enthusiasts with their sleek appearance and gentle temperament. The American Kennel Club officially recognized the breed in 1888, solidifying its status as a distinct breed in the dog world. Over the years, Whippets have continued to excel in various endeavours. Apart from their racing abilities, they have also become successful show dogs, lure coursers, and cherished family pets. Their adaptable nature and affectionate disposition have made them a popular choice for households seeking an elegant yet easy going companion.

Today, Whippets are cherished for their athletic prowess and gentle nature. Whether they are sprinting on the racetrack or snuggling up with their human companions, these dogs continue to captivate our hearts. Their rich history reminds us of their humble beginnings and the journey they have taken to become the beloved breed we know today.

Benefits of the Whippet

The Whippet is a charming and elegant breed that has gained popularity among dog lovers for its unique characteristics. 

From their affectionate nature to their low-maintenance grooming requirements, here are some of the key advantages of having a Whippet as your furry companion.

1. Gentle and Affectionate: 

Whippets are known for their gentle and affectionate nature. They form strong bonds with their owners and are excellent family pets. Their loving temperament makes them great companions for children and other pets, ensuring a harmonious household.

2. Low Grooming Requirements: 

Another benefit of owning a Whippet is their low-maintenance grooming needs. Their short, smooth coat requires minimal brushing, and they are generally clean dogs. This makes them a perfect choice for individuals who prefer a tidy and fuss-free pet without the constant need for grooming or excessive shedding.

3. Versatile Companions: 

Whippets are incredibly versatile dogs that can adapt to various living situations. Whether you are an active individual looking for a running partner or someone who enjoys a laid-back lifestyle, a Whippet can fit right into your routine. They are equally comfortable lounging on the couch or accompanying you on outdoor adventures.

4. Excellent Watchdogs: 

Despite their gentle demeanour, Whippets possess a keen sense of alertness. They are excellent watchdogs and will alert you to any potential intruders or unusual activity around the house. 

5. Easy to Train: 

Whippets are intelligent dogs that respond well to positive reinforcement training methods. They are eager to please their owners and are quick learners. With consistency and patience, you can easily train a Whippet to obey basic commands and even participate in various dog sports such as agility.

The Whippet offers a multitude of benefits to those who choose to welcome them into their homes. From their affectionate nature and low exercise needs to their low grooming requirements and adaptability, Whippets make for wonderful companions. 

If you are seeking a loyal and gentle dog that brings joy and companionship to your life, the Whippet might just be the perfect addition to your family!

Why a Harness is Good for Whippet

If you are a proud owner of a Whippet, you already know that these dogs are energetic, agile, and love to explore. Whippets are known for their slender build, deep chest, and lightning-fast speed. When it comes to taking them on walks or engaging in any outdoor activities, using a harness specifically designed for Whippets can provide numerous benefits for both you and your dog.

A Whippet harness is specially designed to cater to the unique body structure and needs of this breed. Here are a few reasons why opting for a harness is a great choice for your Whippet.

1. Comfort and Safety: 

Whippets have a delicate neck and a thin, streamlined body. Traditional collar-and-lead combinations can put a strain on their neck and potentially cause injury, especially if they tend to pull or lunge. A harness distributes the pressure evenly across the chest and shoulders, eliminating the risk of choking or neck injuries.

2. Control: 

Due to their prey drive and a strong inclination to chase anything that catches their eye, Whippets can be easily distracted or tempted to take off after small animals. With a well-fitted harness, you will have better control over your Whippet's movements, whilst maintaining comfort at all times,  making it easier to redirect their attention and prevent them from pulling or lunging. 

3. Preventing Escapes: 

Whippets are renowned escape artists and can slip out of their collars easily due to their slim necks. A harness with a secure, adjustable fit ensures that your Whippet stays securely fastened, reducing the chances of them escaping or slipping away during walks or outdoor adventures.

4. Training Aid: 

Harnesses can be a valuable tool for training your Whippet. A comfortable fit means your Whippet will feel more secure and calmer. The harness will allow you to gain gentle control over their movements, making it easier to redirect their attention when needed, using positive reinforcement training techniques. 

5. Comfortable Exercise: 

Whippets are known for their incredible speed, and they love to run and play. A harness allows them to move freely and comfortably, without any restrictions on their shoulder or neck movements. Whether you're engaged in a game of fetch or taking them for a jog, a harness ensures that your Whippet can enjoy their exercise without discomfort or strain.

A harness specifically designed for Whippets is an excellent investment for their well-being, comfort, and safety. It provides you with better control, prevents injuries, aids in training, and ensures a comfortable and enjoyable outdoor experience for your beloved companion. 

Make sure to consider their size and weight to ensure the perfect fit. Measure your Whippet's girth (around the widest part of their chest) and refer to the sizing calculator on our website, https://perfect-fit-dog-harness.com/PFSizing/, to find the most suitable size.

So, if you haven't already, consider getting a harness for your Whippet and witness the positive difference it makes in your adventures together!

Why a PerfectFit Harness is the best choice

The PerfectFit Harness has a modular design to fit any dog type including a Whippet. Our harness has a large range of sizes and fits to choose from, a massive benefit of our harness is that it is comfy and calming for your dog ensuring that both you and your dog are content on your walks. You can purchase our harness in 3 sections, so you can purchase the exact size for each part of the chest area, providing your dog with the perfect fit! We know how worrying it can be when your dog is pulling on their lead, causing their harness or collar to pull on their neck, however, our harness is designed with a Y-shaped front to avoid the soft tissues of the throat and neck. This will reduce the risk of any injury caused by the pulling. Our harness isn't just safer, it is also stylish. We offer a large range of colours and as you can remove and replace each piece you can have multiple different harness colours! We are the perfect fit for you!