Rion – Whippet x Sheltie – Lurcher

Today I had the opportunity to take some pictures of Rion, a Whippet x Shetland Sheepdog cross. He is a so-called ‘performance-geared mix’, the result of purebred parents from two different breeds. The offspring is expected to unite their parents’ most desirable qualities and to excel in a particular field (usually sports, police work or hunting). In Rion’s case, his breeder expects the puppies to become great sport dogs for flyball and agility. Because Rion originates from a cross that involves a sighthound, we would also be correct to call him a Lurcher.

Rion very quickly understood the game of ‘run towards the lady with the camera at full speed and play tug with her hair!’
Already at his young age he cannot hide his sighthound heritage: he is the fastest puppy I’ve ever seen.
Rion is a very balanced puppy who is very coordinated in his movements.
He has a great recall, which really helped when taking these pictures.
Can you see that we all had a lot of fun when shooting?
Sheltie ears.
Playing in the warm spring sunlight.
Chewing on a nutshell.
Exploring this new environment.
He already has great focus on his owner, without being too dependent on her.
Will I get a treat?
The colour of Rion’s coat is unique: he seems to be merle, brindle and sable.
Rion is attentive, interested in his environment and seemingly fearless – as any puppy should be!
Responding to his owner’s recall.
Investigating the fountain.
Relaxing in his crate.
Handsome little man.

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