A whippet is a small thin dog with long legs. Some whippets are used for racing. a small thin racing dog like a greyhound (Probably from whip ). Breed of hound dog developed in 19th-century Britain to chase rabbits in an arena. It was developed from terriers and English and Italian greyhounds, which it resembles. It stands 18-22 in. (46-56 cm), weighs about 28 lbs (13 kg), and has a smooth coat of gray, tan, or white. Capable of speeds up to 35 mph (56 kph), it is used for racing and for hunting small game. It is typically quiet and even-tempered