A little look at life together.
Getting to know the Whippet
The Whippet is a medium-sized sighthound with a fine coat and the ability to change quickly from rest to pursuit. Plan safely enclosed exercise and practical comfort for a lightly coated dog.
An everyday routine
Make space for substantial daily activity and short learning sessions. A busy weekend cannot replace a dependable weekday routine.
Coat care to plan for
Set aside time each week for coat care, checking through the hair rather than only brushing the surface. Shedding periods or longer furnishings may need extra attention.
Before deciding, meet the individual dog and ask about their history, handling preferences, and current routine. Breed tendencies are a starting point, not a promise about personality.
Whippet questions
Do Whippets shed?
Yes, lightly. The coat is short and fine, and it does shed. Upkeep is light, with a weekly brush and an occasional bath.
How big does a full-grown Whippet get?
Males stand 19 to 22 inches tall and females 18 to 21 inches, with adults weighing 25 to 40 pounds. Males tend to run one to two inches taller and three to six pounds heavier than females.
How fast can a Whippet run?
Whippets reach speeds of up to 35 miles per hour, making them the fastest breed of their size. They are sprinters by nature. That speed is why a Whippet should be on a leash anywhere that is not securely fenced.
Is a Whippet a miniature Greyhound?
Not exactly. A Whippet looks like a smaller Greyhound, and the two are both sighthounds, but the Whippet is its own breed. Working people in northern England created it by crossing Greyhounds with several other breeds, including the Italian Greyhound and a long-legged terrier that no longer exists.
How long do Whippets live?
Most live 12 to 15 years, with a normal range of 10 to 15 and an average of 12 to 14. Responsible breeders screen for cardiac disease, deafness and eye disorders, so ask a breeder about those and take health questions to your vet.
Do Whippets bark a lot, and are they good apartment dogs?
Whippets are one of the quieter breeds and rarely bark. They do nicely in apartments as long as they are exercised properly, because they tend to be calm indoors.
How much exercise does a Whippet need?
Less than their speed suggests, but it has to be regular. Plan moderate daily exercise such as walks, plus at least four or five harder sessions a week, like running with another dog or chasing a ball in a safely enclosed area. A secure fence should be at least five feet high with no gaps a Whippet can fit its head through.
Are Whippets good with children?
Usually, if the children are gentle. Whippets are quiet dogs that are not prone to snapping and tend to look for a place to hide when children get too loud or rough. Many Whippets greet people with wild enthusiasm, though, which can knock over a small child or an older adult.
