Dog Breed
Whippet
gentle • quiet • affectionate • athletic
OriginEngland
Lifespan12-15 years
Weight9-14 kg
Energy Levelmoderate
Quick Stats
Sizemedium
Weight9-14 kg
Lifespan12-15 years
Energy Levelmoderate
Groominglow
Trainabilitymoderate
OriginEngland
Temperament
gentlequietaffectionateathletic
Overview
The Whippet is a sleek, elegant sighthound that combines incredible speed with a gentle, quiet temperament. Known as the "poor man's Greyhound", these graceful dogs are calm couch companions at home and explosive athletes outdoors.
Compatibility
Children
Good
Other Dogs
Excellent
Cats
Fair
Apartment Living
Excellent
Care Guide
Whippets need a secure garden as they will chase anything that moves. They are sensitive to cold due to thin coats and low body fat. They are quiet, clean dogs that make excellent house pets.
Exercise Needs
Moderate exercise — daily walks with occasional off-lead sprinting in a secure area. They are sprinters, not endurance runners.
Grooming
Minimal grooming — weekly brush of their fine, short coat. They are naturally clean and low-odour.
Health Concerns
heart murmurs
eye conditions
deafness
von Willebrand's disease
Fun Facts
🐶Whippets can reach speeds of up to 56 km/h, making them the fastest dog breed for their size.
🐶They were originally bred by coal miners in Northern England for rabbit coursing.
🐶Whippets are sometimes called "45 mph couch potatoes" due to their dual nature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Whippets good apartment dogs?
Excellent. They are calm, quiet, and clean indoors — one of the best apartment dogs despite their medium size.
Do Whippets need a lot of exercise?
Moderate exercise. Daily walks plus occasional sprinting opportunities. They are sprinters, not marathon runners.
Are Whippets good with cats?
Their prey drive can be an issue. Some coexist well if raised together, but caution is advised.
Do Whippets get cold?
Yes, their thin coat and low body fat make them sensitive to cold. They need coats in winter.
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