Whippets: what do I need to know?

[chipped]

I think they may be my next dog

We want something smallish, not too hairy/messy, easily transportable(!), not excessively vocal and good with (well behaved, respectful) children. I think they're beautiful.

My concerns are; we have a (dog friendly) cat - is this necessarily a problem?

Can you take one for a long country walk and not worry about it disappearing off after rabbits (too much)? I don't want to have to use a lead/line and am used to having easy, off lead walks. I am of course happy to play and interact lots.

On that note, do they like playing/fetching?

Any other thoughts about this breed? Can I ring the breed society and ask advice?

I am with the person who voted for whippet/Bedlington crosses :) Great little dogs.

Our whippety boy is the perfect take anywhere dog. He is great in the car, will settle quietly under the table in the pub, perfect at friend's houses. All he asks is that we take him a comfy duvet or cushion to snuggle up on, as he is so thin skinned and bony (as all whippeties are) it is not comfortable for him to lie on the floor. We keep a roll up dog crate pad and a fleece blanket in the car and as soon as we have made him a cosy nest he settles down happily.

I love the idea of a whippet / bedlington cross. The rescue we got whippety boy from currently have a whippet / patterdale cross. I am sooo tempted but dh says 'no' .