Whippet
Updated November 28, 2025
The Whippet is a medium-sized sighthound known for its incredible speed, gentle nature, and adaptability as a companion. They are affectionate and playful dogs that thrive in a family environment. While they are sprinters at heart, they are also content to be couch potatoes.
Gentle, Affectionate, Quiet, Even-tempered, Intelligent
25-40 pounds
18-22 inches
12-15 years
Black, White, Red, Fawn, Blue, Cream, Brindle, And any combination of these colors
At a Glance
Good with Kids
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About Whippet
The Whippet is a medium-sized sighthound known for its incredible speed, gentle nature, and adaptability as a companion. They are affectionate and playful dogs that thrive in a family environment. While they are sprinters at heart, they are also content to be couch potatoes.
What Makes Whippets Special
The Whippet is the epitome of canine elegance and athleticism. Often described as a 'poor man's racehorse,' they possess incredible speed and a graceful, streamlined build. In the home, they are quiet, gentle, and affectionate companions who enjoy curling up on the softest piece of furniture. Their dual nature makes them a versatile and cherished pet.
Whippet History & Origin
The Whippet was developed in Northern England during the late 18th and 19th centuries by coal miners. They were created by crossing Greyhounds with smaller, fast terriers. They were used for hunting small game like rabbits and for racing, which earned them the nickname 'the poor man's racehorse.'
The breed was developed by working-class people in Northern England.
They were bred for 'snap-dog' contests, a form of rabbit coursing.
The Whippet was officially recognized by the English Kennel Club in 1891.
They were brought to the United States by English mill operatives.
Today, they excel as both companion animals and in various canine sports.
Whippet Characteristics
Dogs are individuals and not all dogs, even those of the same breed, will exhibit all the same qualities.
Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Training Needs
Health Issues
Shedding Level
Whippet Appearance
A medium-sized sighthound, the Whippet has a distinctive 'S' shaped body with a deep chest and a trim waist. They are the picture of an agile and fleet-footed athlete. Their sleek, muscular build is both powerful and elegant.
Physical Features
Ears
Small, fine-textured, and rose-shaped. When relaxed, they are folded; when at attention, they are semi-pricked.
Eyes
Large, oval, and dark in color, expressing a lively and intelligent nature.
Nose
The nose is typically black, but can also be dark blue or dark brown, often complementing the coat color.
Coat & Build
Coat Length
The Whippet has a very short, fine single coat that lies close to the skin.
Coat Color
Whippets come in a wide variety of colors and markings. Any color is acceptable, including solid colors, brindles, and parti-colors.
Tail
The tail is long, tapering, and unfeathered. It is carried low and reaches to the hock.
Whippet Temperament
Whippets are known for their dual personality: calm and gentle indoors, and intensely athletic and driven outdoors. They are affectionate companions that form strong bonds with their families and are generally quiet around the house. Their sensitive nature means they respond best to positive, gentle training methods. While they can be initially reserved with strangers, they are not typically aggressive. Their strong prey drive is a key aspect of their temperament, and they have an instinct to chase moving objects.
Temperament Traits
Good With
Health
Whippets are a generally healthy breed with a life expectancy of 12-15 years. Responsible breeding practices screen for known health issues. Their thin skin can be prone to cuts and scrapes.
Common Health Issues
Preventive Care
Regular vet check-ups, proper nutrition, maintaining a lean weight, and screening for genetic conditions.
How to Care for a Whippet
Whippets are a relatively low-maintenance breed in terms of grooming but have specific exercise and environmental needs. They are adaptable to different living situations, including apartments, as long as their exercise requirements are met. Their sensitive nature should be considered in all aspects of their care.
Grooming
The Whippet's short, smooth coat requires minimal grooming. A weekly brushing with a rubber curry brush or hound glove will help remove loose hair and keep the coat shiny. They shed at a low to moderate rate. Baths are only needed occasionally. Nail trimming should be done regularly, as their nails can grow quickly. Ear cleaning and dental care are also important aspects of their grooming routine.
Training
Whippets are intelligent and can be easy to train, but they are also independent thinkers and can have a 'what's in it for me?' attitude. Positive reinforcement techniques work best. Early socialization is crucial to help them become well-rounded and confident adults. Due to their strong prey drive, recall training is essential and should be practiced consistently in a secure area.
Diet
A high-quality commercial dog food appropriate for their age (puppy, adult, or senior) and activity level is recommended. They are lean dogs and can be prone to becoming overweight if overfed, so portion control is important. Fresh, clean water should always be available.
Exercise
Whippets are sprinters and need regular opportunities to run at full speed in a safely enclosed area. About 30-60 minutes of exercise per day is generally sufficient. This should include a combination of walks on a leash and off-leash running. They also enjoy participating in canine sports like lure coursing, agility, and flyball.
Environment
Whippets are adaptable and can live happily in an apartment or a house with a yard. The most critical environmental need is a securely fenced area for off-leash exercise. They are not suited to living outdoors and are sensitive to the cold due to their thin coat and low body fat, so they will need a coat in colder weather.
Living Conditions
Space Requirements
Adaptable to apartment living, but a home with a fenced yard is ideal.
Climate Adaptability
Prefers temperate climates; highly sensitive to the cold.
Apartment Living
Very suitable for apartments if daily exercise needs are met.
Best Suited For
Best suited for active individuals or families who can provide opportunities for running.
Training Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Whippets good apartment dogs?
Yes, Whippets are well-suited for apartment living as they are quiet and calm indoors, as long as they receive adequate daily exercise and opportunities to run in a secure area.
How much do Whippets shed?
Whippets are a low-shedding breed. Their short, fine coat sheds minimally.
Do Whippets bark a lot?
No, Whippets are not known for barking excessively. They are generally quiet dogs.
Can Whippets be left alone?
Whippets are social dogs that can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. They are best suited to homes where someone is around for much of the day.
Are Whippets good with cats?
With early socialization, many Whippets can live peacefully with cats. However, their strong prey drive means that supervision is always recommended.
Specialized Care Guides
Puppy Care
Early socialization with various people, sounds, and other animals is crucial. Crate training is recommended. Begin recall training early.
Senior Care
May require softer bedding for their joints. Adjust exercise to their ability. Regular vet check-ups are important to monitor for age-related health issues.
First-Time Owner Tips
A good choice for first-time owners due to their gentle nature and manageable size, provided their exercise needs can be met.
Looking for a Whippet?
Connect with responsible breeders, rescue organizations, and pet adoption services in your area.