Origin
United Kingdom
Lifespan
12–15 years
Weight
11–21 kg
Height
— cm
Personality
Colors & Patterns
Blue · Brindle Fawn · White · Black · Red Fawn
Whippet
About This Breed
The Whippet is a medium-sized sighthound that resembles a small Greyhound. Developed in England during the mid-19th century, they were bred by working-class men for racing and rabbit hunting. Whippets are among the fastest dogs in the world, capable of reaching 56 km/h. Despite their athletic prowess, they are gentle, quiet, and affectionate at home. They love to curl up on comfortable furniture and make calm, well-mannered housedogs.
Characteristics
Scores describe general breed tendencies, not an individual animal. A higher score means more of the named trait or need; it does not always mean better.
Life with a Whippet
Origin
| Origin | United Kingdom |
| Group | Hounds |
For the breed’s history, see the reference sources and Wikipedia link below.
Size and coat
| Weight | 11–21 kg |
| Lifespan | 12–15 years |
| Colors & Patterns | Blue · Brindle Fawn · White · Black · Red Fawn |
These are approximate adult ranges. Individual animals may be smaller or larger.
Temperament
| Personality | Gentle · Affectionate · Lively · Quiet · Intelligent |
Usually active. Make time for play, exercise, and activities that keep it interested.
Often seeks company and attention. Allow time together and help it get used to short periods alone.
Coat care
Usually needs relatively little coat care. Brush as needed for its coat and shedding.
Usually sheds relatively little. Low shedding does not mean an animal cannot cause allergies.
Living together
Often adjusts to changes fairly well, though a gradual introduction still helps.
Often gets along with children, but an adult should still supervise their time together.
Often gets along with other pets. Introduce them gradually rather than assuming they will be friends.
Training and activities
Practice in short sessions and reward the behavior you want.
Choose walks, sniffing games, and play to suit the dog’s age and health. Allow rest as well.
A lifespan range is not a prediction for an individual animal. Breed scores cannot diagnose illness or replace a veterinary assessment.
More from breed and care sources
Excerpts from the linked sources. Read the original for full details.
Breed Overview
Standing between 18-22 inches tall at the shoulder, Whippets are sleek and slim with a deep chest, long neck, small waist, and graceful legs. Whippets resemble small-scale Greyhounds, as they originated from crossing these large sprinters with smaller terriers. Athletic, enthusiastic, and capable of reaching speeds of 35 miles per hour, Whippets are happy to stretch their legs through sprinting. They can change direction easily in pursuit of prey and are incredibly alert. But they’re not always on the go; Whippets balance energetic bursts with evenings spent snuggling on the couch with their humans.
Care Guide
As long as a Whippet’s physical and mental needs are met, he will generally be quiet, calm, and happy. The breed is a sighthound, a group of dogs bred to hunt with their speed and eyesight, such as Greyhounds, Borzois, and Salukis. “Whippets generally have a goofy, playful personality,” says Renee Rhoades, a dog behavior consultant. “However, as they can be sensitive, it’s important to nurture and support them in order to build their confidence with things they find unsettling or scary.” Because of their thin skin and coat, Whippets can get cold easily, and generally don’t do well in cold or wet weather. Pet parents can dress them in comfortable sweaters, doggy coats, or pajamas to keep them warm.