The biggest favor you can do to yourself and your dog is to start a basic training program.

It doesn't have to be anything too demanding, it doesn't have to take a lot of time or money and it can be done at home.

All it requires is your commitment.

Too many dogs, left neglected, become a nuisance or a danger and have to be destroyed every year.

Avoid this terrible fate for your pet, engage in an activity which can be fun and rewarding for you and your dog and you'll be able to enjoy his pleasant companionship for years to come.

If men come from Mars, women from Venus, dogs come from altogether another planet. They speak a different language from humans but are so receptive that they quickly learn our body language and many words. It is our duty to make clear what we ask from them to make our living together possible and enjoyable.

Dog training is a bridge of understanding between two species, sometimes it miraculously happens but sometimes it has to be consciously established. The rewards are so great that is worth a little effort from our part.

Sighthounds are not the most obedient class of dogs. They are occasionally accused of being stupid and spiteful but this is simply not true: they were bred over the centuries to hunt independently and they retain an attitude of free thinkers.

Like any other dog they can be trained but they require positive dog training techniques and your patience.

The good news is that whippets are the most obedient and willing to please of the sighthound family.

It won't be difficult to establish the basic rules and it will be fun to teach your whippet and learn from him.

Whippets are clever and whimsical and sometimes they will outsmart you in unexpected ways, this is part of the charm of living with such a beautiful and smart dog.

Whippet training can be a therapy for the trainer, it will teach you patience, self control and observation skills, be ready for surprises and have fun!