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Whippet fans, this one’s for you. In this episode of The Yappy Hour, host Nathan Dunleavy chats with Vanessa Bsirsky from Jack’s Mum Dog Training, a Whippet expert and behaviourist who’s worked with hundreds of these elegant, sensitive sighthounds. Together they explore what defines the Whippet, from puppyhood to adulthood, including temperament, recall, separation anxiety, safety, and the truth behind the “couch potato” myth.
Whether you already share your home with a Whippet or are thinking about it, you’ll learn how to create a calm, enriching life for this affectionate, athletic breed.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
✅ How show, racing and working Whippets differ in energy and temperament
✅ Why Whippets are so sensitive and how to build their confidence kindly
✅ Tips for safe puppyhood: flooring, furniture, gates and gear
✅ Recall games that work for sighthounds (emotion > treats!)
✅ How to prevent separation anxiety before it starts
✅ Enrichment and daily routines that balance energy and rest
✅ Living with Whippets alongside kids, cats and other dogs
✅ Home “Whippet-proofing” and practical management tricks
Key Takeaways:
- Whippets are gentle, intelligent sighthounds that thrive in calm, loving homes.
- Line type matters; working Whippets are far higher energy than show lines.
- Build recall through excitement and play, not just food rewards.
- Prevent separation issues with structured alone-time training from day one.
- Many short enrichment bursts beat one big walk for emotional balance.
- Keep puppies safe: rugs, ramps, and no long leads to avoid injuries.
- Positive, force-free methods are essential for this sensitive breed.
- Comfort counts: soft beds, warm coats, and permission to snuggle.
🎙️ Thanks for tuning in! Let’s celebrate the joy and challenges of dog parenting together, because we’re all here for the dogs. 🐾
Connect with Vanessa
Vanessa’s website Jacks Mum Dog Training
Jacks Mum Dog Training Instagram
Connect with Nathan and Yappily
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