Whippet

Breed Type: Hound
Common nicknames: Poor Man's Racehorse
Coat: Smooth
Hypoallergenic: Yes, they may not trigger allergies.
Temperament: Affectionate, gentle, energetic, playful
Life expectancy: 12-15 years
Color & patterns:
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Whippet - Black and white
Whippet - Brindle
Whippets are sleek companions who are lightning-fast speed demons. With their slender bodies, powerful muscles, keen eyes, and graceful movements, Whippets bring a sense of elegance and agility to any home. Whippets are not just fast runners but are also incredibly smart. These clever pups are known for their quick thinking and exceptional problem-solving abilities. Whether mastering new tricks or participating in dog sports, Whippets are always up for a mental challenge. They’re also incredibly adaptable, gentle, and affectionate, making them wonderful pets for one person or for families.

Whippet characteristics

Learn about about Whippet basics like their fur colors, shedding levels, how much grooming they need, and other Whippet facts.

Average height

17-18 inches (43.2-45.7cm)

Average weight

26-45 pounds (11.8-20.4 kg)

Average lifespan

12-15 years

Exercise needs
Low-key activityHigh-energy workouts
Grooming needs
OccasionallyFrequently
Full-grown size
Teeny tinySuper size
Good with cats
Likely to chaseHey, new pal!
Good with kids
Needs lots of supervisionReady to play
Training aptitude
HeadstrongEager to please
Do Whippets shed?

Yes, Whippets shed, but their shedding is relatively minimal compared to some other breeds. Their short coat requires regular brushing to remove loose hair and maintain its sleek appearance. So, while they’re not entirely hypoallergenic, they are considered a low-shedding breed.

How big do Whippets get?

Whippets typically stand between 18 to 22 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 25 to 40 pounds when fully grown. Males are generally larger than females.

What does a Whippet look like?

A Whippet has a sleek and athletic appearance with a slender build. They have a short, smooth coat that can come in various colors, such as fawn, brindle, blue, black, or white, often with markings or patches.

How long do Whippets live?

Whippets typically live between 12 to 15 years with proper care and nutrition.

When is a Whippet fully grown?

A Whippet is usually considered fully grown when they reach about 12 to 18 months of age. By this time, they’ve reached their full height and weight, although they might still fill out a bit more as they mature.

Are Greyhounds and Whippets related?

Yes, Greyhounds and Whippets are related. In fact, Whippets are often referred to as the smaller cousins of Greyhounds. Both breeds share similar characteristics and were originally bred for racing and hunting. They have a lot of the same traits but in a smaller package when it comes to Whippets.

Whippet history

Learn about where this Whippet came from!

What are Whippets used for?

Whippets have primarily been bred for racing and lure coursing. They’re known for their speed and agility, often competing in events where they chase a mechanical lure around a track or field. Overall, they excel in activities that let them use their natural athleticism and energy.

Whippet temperament

Learn about about the Whippet temperament and how well they fit into your lifestyle, home environment, and family.

Are Whippets good guard dogs?

While Whippets may bark to alert their pet parent to something unusual, they’re more likely to greet strangers with curiosity rather than suspicion. Their friendly nature doesn’t make them guard dogs in the traditional sense, but they make loyal and loving companions.

Are Whippets good with kids?

Yes, Whippets can be good companions to kids. They’re usually tolerant and playful with children, especially when they’re raised together from a young age. It’s always essential for parents to teach kids how to interact with dogs properly and for pet parents to teach their dogs how to interact gently with children. Pet parents and parents of children alike should supervise their interactions to ensure everyone stays safe and happy.

Are Whippets aggressive?

No, Whippets are not aggressive dogs. They’re known for their gentle and friendly disposition towards people and other animals. However, like any breed, individual temperament can vary, so proper socialization and training are important to ensure they grow up to be well-behaved.

If you are concerned by any signs of aggression or reactivity in your dog, be sure to address it promptly with the help of a professional trainer or behaviorist. Pain, discomfort, or underlying medical conditions can sometimes contribute to changes in a dog’s behavior, so it may also be worth visiting a vet to rule out their health as a cause for their behavior.

Are Whippets easy to train?

Training a Whippet can be a bit of a mixed bag. They're intelligent dogs but can be independent thinkers, which means they may have a stubborn streak. They can learn commands and behaviors quite well with consistent and positive training methods.

Training any dog takes substantial time and effort, regardless of breed, and early socialization and training are key to helping them become well-rounded and obedient companions.

Do Whippets bark a lot?

No, Whippets are generally not big barkers. They tend to bark only when there’s a reason, such as alerting their pet parent to something unusual.

Are Whippets good family dogs?

Yes, Whippets can make excellent family dogs. They’re affectionate, gentle, and enjoy spending time with their people. However, they do have a lot of energy and need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.

Are Whippets good with cats?

Yes, Whippets can get along well with cats, especially if introduced to them early on and socialized properly. Their prey drive can be strong due to their hunting instincts, so supervision is recommended when they’re around smaller animals.

Are Whippets good with other dogs?

Yes, Whippets do well with other dogs. They’re social creatures and often enjoy the company of other dogs, whether it’s during playtime or just hanging out.

Are Whippets smart?

Yes, Whippets are considered smart dogs. They can quickly pick up on cues and learn new commands, although their independent nature might make them a bit selective about when they choose to listen.

Are Whippets good apartment dogs?

Yes, Whippets can make excellent apartment dogs, thanks to their moderate size and relatively low energy levels when indoors. However, they still need regular exercise, so daily walks and playtime are essential to keep them happy and healthy in an apartment setting.

Are Whippets lazy?

No, while Whippets do enjoy lounging around the house, especially on a comfy couch, calling them lazy might be a bit of a stretch. They have bursts of energy, especially when they’re outdoors or playing, but they’re also content to relax and chill with their people.

Are Whippets nervous dogs?

No, Whippets are generally not overly anxious or nervous dogs. However, like any breed, individual temperament can vary. Early socialization and positive experiences can help build their confidence and reduce any potential nervousness or timidity.

Are Whippets good for first-time pet parents?

Yes, Whippets can be a good choice for first-time dog parents who are willing to provide them with the exercise and attention they need. They’re generally easy-going and adaptable, making them relatively straightforward to care for compared to some other breeds.

Do Whippets like to cuddle?

Yes, Whippets often enjoy cuddling with their pet parents. While they might not be the most clingy dogs, they do appreciate some quality snuggle time, especially after a good play session or a long walk.

At what age do Whippets calm down?

Whippets typically start to calm down around two to three years of age. By this time, they’ve passed the puppy stage and have matured a bit, settling into a more relaxed demeanor. However, they’ll still have their playful moments throughout their lives, so they’ll always keep you on your toes!

Whippet health

Learn about about the Whippet health outlook and what diseases they may be prone to at various stages of their life.

Are Whippets healthy dogs?

Whippets are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues such as heart problems, eye issues, and skin conditions. Regular veterinary check-ups and maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine can help keep them in good shape.

What diseases are Whippets prone to?

Whippets are generally healthy but may be prone to the following:

  • Von Willebrand’s disease: Von Willebrand’s disease (vWD) is the most common inherited bleeding disorder seen in dogs. It happens when a dog does not produce enough of a specific protein that helps the blood cells used in clotting stick together. This results in dogs who are unable to clot properly and could cause hemorrhages or other bleeding issues. The deficient protein is called von Willebrand factor (vWF).

  • Heart issues: Whippets are susceptible to heart disorders ranging from mild heart murmurs to more significant mitral valve disease, a condition where the valve directing blood from the left atrium to the left ventricle begins to fail and eventually leads to heart failure.

  • Others: Whippets are more prone to performance injuries than diseases. They are also intolerant of anesthesia, may develop eye defects, and occasionally become deaf.

Are Whippets hypoallergenic?

No, Whippets are not considered hypoallergenic. While they do have short, smooth coats that shed minimally, they still produce dander and can trigger allergies in sensitive individuals. If allergies are a concern, spending time with a Whippet before bringing one home can help determine if they’re a good fit for you.

Popular Whippet mixes

Some common Whippet mixes include:

  • Whipador (Whippet + Labrador Retriever)

  • Bullwhip (Whippet + Bulldog)

  • Miniature Ausseippet (Whippet + Miniature Australian Shepherd)

  • Whippig (Whippet + Italian Greyhound)

Whippet Mixes picture

Find Whippet puppies near you

Adopting a Whippet

Learn about acquiring a Whippet - the pros and cons of adopting versus going through a breeder, and associated costs.