Whippets are relatively strong, healthy, athletic dogs. Whippet breeders have kept their gene pool very clean, however, Whippets are susceptible to some problems. Purchasing a Whippet from a reputable breeder of quality puppies is your best assurance of having a long lived, healthy family member.

Pressure Sores
       Whippets can be susceptible to pressure sores if they spend too much time lying on the ground, or on a hard floor.
For more information please see : (Medical Index/Pressure Sores).

Anesthetics
        Whippets normally have very low body fat. This makes some Whippets particularly sensitive to barbiturate-based anesthetics. Be sure to discuss this potential difficulty with your veterinarian prior to any surgery.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
        Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) and Central Progressive Retinal Atrophy (CPRA) are among the most common eye problems in Whippets. These conditions usually begin to display symptoms at about 2 years of age.  They are progressive in their degeneration. Both conditions are hereditary. Both parents should have CERF certification proof, when looking to purchase a pup.
For more information please see: (Medical Index/Progressive Retinal Atrophy).

Hypothyroidism
         The thyroid gland produces a hormone which controls the metabolic rate of the animal.  Hypothyroidism (low thyroid production) displays a wide variety of symptoms ranging from dull thin hair to ear infections.  Hypothyroidism can even be asymptomatic.  Blood test for thyroid function is the only positive means of determining hypothyroidism.
For more information please see : (Medical Index/Hypothyroidism).

Sebacious adenitis
     This is a skin condition where the lubricating glands cease to function.  Hair falls out in great quantities, musky odor, flaking and thickening of the skin are some of the symptoms.
For more information please see :  (Medical Index/Sebacious adenitis).

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