History and Origins - How the Whippet got its name The history and origins of the Whippet continues with how the dog got his name! The name simply derived from the speed in which the dog can run. It is so fast and reaches such high speed in a matter of seconds that the phrase 'whip it' arose and this is how the breed's formal name derived. Whippet racing became a national sport in England during the nineteenth century. The breed was officially recognized by the British Kennel Club in 1890. America saw the introduction of this breed when it arrived in Massachusetts alongside English mill operators. Massachusetts became a popular location for whippet racing until it moved south to Maryland, and in particular Baltimore. The American Kennel Club recognized this breed in 1888. This breed is now a popular companion and makes a great family pet. It is good at hunting, sighting, agility, racing, lure coursing and as a watchdog.
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