Caroline Wells Cope of Copestone Whippets lives in Walterboro, SC, just outside of historic Charleston. She’s been showing and breeding Whippets for 10 years under the mentorship of Kerrie Kuper (Karasar Whippets). Caroline’s goal is to breed healthy Whippets with exceptional temperaments that represent the breed standard that not only succeed in the show ring but also on the field and as the perfect family companion.
AKC: How did you get started in breeding dogs?
Caroline: While living in Florida, I used to participate in triathlons and originally looked at getting a Whippet as a running companion. My first one was from Kerrie Kuper. It didn’t take Kerrie long to see my competitiveness and love for the breed. Kerrie and I have become great compliments as partners and have the same passion and dedication to this wonderful breed.
AKC: What is the most important thing to know about your breed?
Caroline: There’s a lot of dog packed into such a compact elegant package. The pet owner needs to know that they are sensitive yet tough, loyal yet stubborn… they are a true hound. They hunt by sight and can have a very high prey drive with great speed and tenacity. While some exceed in obedience and other activities, as a whole, Whippets should never be trusted in an uncontrolled setting off-leash.
AKC: What is your favorite question to ask of potential puppy buyers?
Caroline: I actually have two. Why do you want a Whippet? What makes you a great home for one? I’m not looking for “we love our dogs and want a family pet.” I’m looking for comments that let me know they’ve done their research and know that a Whippet requires a certain skill set to own.
AKC: What are the main qualities you look for in potential owners?
Caroline: The best qualities for owners that want a happy Whippet are active families but not those that are overly chaotic. Whippets are wonderful with children as long as both the dog and children are taught boundaries. Prospective owners need to know that Whippets are gluttonous for luxury and must be provided an endless supply of soft blankets and fluffy dog beds.
AKC: What is the best advice you would give to novice breeders?
Caroline: Find someone you respect in the breed based on their breeding practices, not just those that win – and LISTEN to them. Listen to them for years! You will find your own way but never stop asking and learning from your mentors.
AKC: Do your dogs participate in AKC sports?
Caroline: I have participated on a very limited basis in lure coursing but with a very busy show schedule I don’t have the time to concentrate on it. I’m very supportive and thrilled for my co-owners and breeders who dedicate their time to Whippets in sports… lure coursing, dock diving, rally, and obedience.
AKC: What do you like best about breeding dogs?
Caroline: Oh, I’m a softie for the puppies. However, matching the right puppy with the right family brings me so much joy. I have become close friends, like family, with many people because of them getting one of my puppies.
AKC: Do you have a favorite breeding story?
Caroline: My first litter — a woman who had owned a rescued Whippet in the past contacted me. While she loved him very much, he came with a few issues. She told me she wanted a dog from someone that had loved it from the first moment it was born. She wanted a dog as a family member as she didn’t think she could have children. Shortly after placing a deposit, she became pregnant. She has become a dear friend and now has the perfect family… her beautiful Whippets and miracle baby.