Irish Terrier Whippet Dog Breed

Below are details and specs for the Irish Terrier Whippet dog breed.

He is highly brilliant and playful, and can be destructive if he is bored. Although they are typically very mellow and protective with children, all interactions between children and canines should be supervised to ensure the safety of both the child and the pet. They get on well with other cats and dogs but have a high need for human companionship. The Irish Terrier Whippet is loyal with guests and does not pose any risk to them, generally remaining low-key by nature.

The Irish Terrier Whippet typically takes the best of the mannerisms from the parent lineage to produce a keen, affectionate, active dog that is perhaps less inclined to chase off after a scent and more inclined to listen and obey their humans. Its stamina levels are high and it must be engaged in activity constantly. Not only are these dogs even-tempered, but they get along great with children and rarely show aggression toward people or other dogs. The Irish Terrier Whippet is also one of the few breeds that can do okay if left unaccompanied during the day. He is also not recommended for first time dog owners.

Although a great deal is known about the health traits of the Whippet and the Irish Terrier breeds, there is little known about the mixed breed they produce. The Irish Terrier Whippet might eventually shed some of the health issues due to hybrid vigor, and others may crop up from long-dormant genetic predispositions.

Below are many of the things you should watch out for in Irish Terrier Whippets:

• Arthritis
• Cancer
• Blindness
• Cataracts
• Urinary stones
• Skin lacerations
• Hypothyroidism
• Addison's disease
• Idiopathic epilepsy
• Orthopedic injuries
• Muscular dystrophy
• Congenital deafness
• Undescended testicle
• Hyperkeratosis, aka Corny feet
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
• Fibrocartilaginous Embolism (FCE)

It's believed that the typical Irish Terrier Whippet has a lifespan that averages 13 years or so.