Whippet hereditary health: testing and longevity guide

The whippet is a medium-sized, slender dog from the sighthound group, originating in the UK. Known for exceptional speed and a racing heritage, this breed is prized today for being a gentle, affectionate companion when at home. Before deciding to bring a Whippet puppy into your family, understanding the breed's hereditary health concerns and recommended health testing is vital for responsible ownership.

Whippet longevity and general health overview

Whippets generally enjoy a long lifespan of 12 to 14 years, placing them above average for dogs of similar size. Their robust working background contributes to this longevity, though, like all breeds, they can inherit specific health conditions. Responsible breeding and proper health screening greatly reduce these risks.

Genetic diversity and responsible breeding

The whippet's genetic diversity currently shows a coefficient of inbreeding at approximately 9.5%, higher than the ideal 6.25% or below for pedigree dogs. This elevated figure partly stems from breeding prized racing lines where popular sires are often reused, potentially narrowing the gene pool. To maintain a healthy population and reduce inherited health problems, breeders are encouraged to consider genetic diversity by choosing less-related mating pairs and sharing health data transparently.

Core hereditary health concerns in Whippets

• Eye disorders: Including conditions such as progressive retinal atrophy and hereditary cataracts.
• Heart issues: Mitral valve insufficiencies and other cardiac conditions can occur, often monitored by heart auscultation.
• Hearing: Some whippets may be affected by congenital deafness; hearing testing is essential.
• Hypothyroidism: An underactive thyroid gland requiring lifelong management.
• Myostatin deficiency: Particularly relevant in racing lines, it causes abnormal muscle development.
• Von Willebrand's disease: A bleeding disorder impacting clotting ability.
• Joint concerns: Limited but possible joint dysplasias affecting hips and elbows.

Recommended health testing for Whippets

The Kennel Club and British Veterinary Association monitor registered dogs and recommend health screenings to help identify hereditary conditions early. For whippets, testing prior to breeding includes the following:

• Eye examinations: Annual checks by a veterinary ophthalmologist to screen for collie eye anomaly, progressive retinal atrophy, and cataracts.
• Heart screenings: Auscultation or echocardiograms to detect mitral valve insufficiencies or murmurs.
• Hearing tests: BAER testing ensures normal auditory capacity in breeding dogs.
• Genetic screenings: DNA tests to detect multi-drug resistance (MDR), myostatin deficiencies, and Von Willebrand's disease.
• Joint evaluations: Optional hip and elbow examinations like OFA or PennHIP assessments.

Responsible breeders make health test results transparent to prospective buyers, helping ensure puppies come from healthy parents and reducing the risk of inherited diseases.

Other health issues sometimes seen in Whippets

Beyond hereditary conditions tested before breeding, whippets may also develop various health problems during their life. These include canine cutaneous histiocytoma (a type of skin tumour), Cushing's disease (hormonal imbalance), cervical disc disease (neck pain from spinal issues), and megaoesophagus (esophageal motility disorder causing regurgitation). Careful veterinary management is crucial for affected dogs.

Promoting responsible ownership and health

For those considering finding a Whippet puppy, it is essential to seek reputable breeders who conduct thorough health testing and share results openly. Meeting the parents and noting health certificates such as CHIC (Canine Health Information Center) status can provide reassurance. Additionally, ensuring the Whippet receives routine veterinary care, a balanced diet, appropriate exercise, and safe environments will support a long, healthy life.

Ultimately, well-informed choices at purchase and ongoing health vigilance make a decisive difference in sustaining the Whippet's delightful temperament and vigorous health for years to come.

Frequently asked questions

What health tests are mandatory for Whippet breeding?

Quick Answer: Eye exams, heart screenings via auscultation or echocardiogram, and BAER hearing tests are the core mandatory tests recommended before breeding.

The Kennel Club advises that breeders conduct annual eye examinations by a specialist, heart evaluations to detect valve issues, and one-time auditory tests to confirm normal hearing. These reduce risks of passing on serious hereditary problems and are considered standard for responsible breeding.

How long do Whippets typically live?

Quick Answer: Whippets usually live between 12 and 14 years, which is a good lifespan compared to other similar-sized breeds.

This longevity reflects their strong genetic background and typical active lifestyle. Good nutrition, regular veterinary check-ups, and attention to breed-specific health considerations all contribute to reaching or exceeding this average lifespan.

Where can I find a reputable Whippet breeder?

Quick Answer: Seek breeders who participate in health testing schemes and can provide documented test results, ideally with CHIC certification.

Reputable whippet breeders are transparent about their dogs’ health and genetic screening. The UK Kennel Club's Assured Breeder Scheme and breed club recommendations help guide puppy buyers to responsible sources.

Visiting the parents and requesting health certificates is advised to ensure ethical breeding and healthy puppies.