A whippet is a breed of medium-sized dog of sighthound type that is closely related to the Greyhound and closely resembles it, apart from its smaller size. They were originally bred to hunt by sight, coursing game in open areas at high speeds. Whippets are generally gentle dogs and are often content to spend much of the day resting. They are quiet and reserved but also exhibit a playful side, and require regular exercise. According to the AKC, they make "excellent house dogs" and are "quiet and dignified in their owners living room".
It is important to note that "whippets" can also refer to nitrous oxide, which is a type of gas that, when inhaled inappropriately, can cause some mental and physical impairment. Nitrous oxide is sometimes referred to as "whippits" or "whip-its" because it is often found in whipped cream aerosol canisters that people use to inhale the gas. Recreational use of nitrous oxide carries serious risks such as lack of oxygen supply to the brain, fainting spells and falls, cold burns from the aerosol cans or whipping cream cartridges, addiction, and other health issues related to occupational exposure from people who use them when performing specific tasks.
