What Is a Whippet Dog? Overview and Breed History

Like mini Greyhounds, Whippets are gentle and affectionate dogs who can sprint up to 35 miles per hour but are just as content to laze around on the couch for most of the day. Whippets check off a lot of boxes: they’re generally sweet-natured, rarely bark, have relatively few health issues, and require minimal grooming.

At the same time, they’re special dogs with unique needs due to their naturally thin bodies, sensitivity to the cold, and high-speed bursts of energy. If you’re considering adopting a Whippet dog into your family, start with our definitive Whippet breed guide including an overview of their history, potential health problems, training and dietary needs, and tips for a successful adoption.

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Origins of the Whippet: Bred for Racing and Hunting Small Game

Known as the “poor man’s racehorse,” Whippets were bred in the late 1800s by miners and millworkers in northern England as a smaller and easier-to-feed alternative to the Greyhound. They were a cross between Greyhounds and other breeds like Italian Greyhounds and terriers. Whippets were one of many sighthounds, bred to hunt for prey like rabbits across long stretches of land. Banking on their natural talent for sprinting, their owners also began to race Whippets for sport.

Whippet Ancestry and Development in England

Originally a working-class dog, Whippets grew in popularity with wealthy dog collectors in England who selectively bred them to look like miniature Greyhounds. The Whippet was later recognized as a distinct breed by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1888.

Popularity in Modern Households

Compared to other purebreds which can be prone to behavioral issues and chronic health problems, Whippets are relatively healthy and easygoing dogs. They rarely bark, they’re happy to hang out at home for most of the day, and it doesn’t take too long for them to sprint off their energy.

Size, Weight, and Signature Features

Whippets stand about 18 to 22 inches tall and weigh only 25 to 40 pounds. The Whippet’s signature features include an S-shaped physique with a deep chest, slim waist, and long slender legs. Whippets’ coats come in a wide variety of colors and patterns, from gray or black with a white chest and face to patches of brindle in various shades of brown.

Whippet Temperament and Ideal Home Fit

Personality Profile

Whippets are generally gentle dogs known for being affectionate and gentle. Their temperament makes for a calm indoor dog.

Are Whippets Good with Kids, Seniors, or Other Pets?

Whippets are typically good with children, older adults, and other pets. Like other dogs, early socialization and training sets the stage for a lifetime of good behavior.

Prey Drive

Because Whippets are bred to hunt, they’re prone to high-speed chases when they see small animals like cats and squirrels. Their prey drive can be a problem without a fenced-in yard, as the greatest danger to a young Whippet on the run is the risk of being hit by a car.

Exercise Needs

Born for speed, Whippets love to break out into sprints and quickly burn off energy. They thrive on at least one hour of exercise daily, ideally including 15 to 20 minutes of high-intensity running, plus regular walks, fenced-in playdates with other dogs, and games of fetch with a ball or frisbee. When they’re not sprinting, they morph into stretchy couch potatoes and can happily lounge around for hours.

Best Lifestyle Match

Whippets adapt well to apartment living provided their exercise needs are met, but they do best with access to a securely fenced yard where they can run free. Because of their thin skin and sensitivity to temperature changes, they’re definitely indoor dogs who need warm, soft sleeping areas. Because Whippets are sprinters, they’re down for the occasional jog but are not the ideal training partner for activities that require greater endurance, like long-distance running or agility sports.

Grooming, Training, and Daily Care Tips

Coat Type and Minimal Grooming Needs

Whippets have low-shedding short coats and minimal grooming needs including weekly brushing and ear checks, nail trims every few weeks, and regular dental care.

Bathing Frequency and Skin Care

Whippets only need to be bathed when absolutely necessary (read: they’re dirty or they stink!). Bathe them any more than that, and you risk stripping their sensitive skin of healthy oils, which can dry them out.

Training a Whippet

While intelligent, Whippets can be sensitive to harsh corrections. They respond best to short, positive training sessions with treats. Some may be more independent-minded, so patience and consistency are key.

Managing Prey Drive and Leash Reactivity

Whippets do best with fenced-in free time for play and on-leash time when they venture elsewhere. However, Whippets can sometimes struggle with leash reactivity, meaning they get excessively excited and barky at the sight of other dogs and people when out on walks. The fix is early and frequent socialization, gentle redirection, and training to desensitize them to passersby.

Diet, Exercise Routines, and Enrichment Activities

Whippets should be fed once or twice a day and not allowed to free feed, which can lead to over- or under-eating. They need regular walks and secure spaces for free running. Many also enjoy racing and lure coursing, among other activities.

Whippet Health Problems & Insurance Costs

Common Whippet health issues include:

Average Lifespan and Healthcare Costs

Whippets have a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years. Annual healthcare costs for Whippets typically range from $600 to $1,200, including routine veterinary visits, vaccinations, dental cleanings, and preventative care. Initial costs in the first year can reach $1,000 to $2,000 when factoring in spaying/neutering, initial vaccinations, microchipping, and essential supplies.

Do Whippets Need Pet Insurance?

While Whippets are generally healthy dogs, they do have high potential for skin injuries during high-speed activities and unexpected veterinary emergencies are always a possibility. For these reasons, pet insurance may provide valuable peace of mind for Whippet pet parents.

What to Look for in a Whippet-Friendly Insurance Plan

Look for plans that cover breed-specific conditions like heart disease and accident coverage, given their thin skin and active nature. Consider plans with good preventive care benefits and reasonable waiting periods.

Should I Adopt a Whippet?

Pros:

Cons:

Questions to Ask Yourself: “Is a Whippet right for me?”

Whippet Adoption Tips and What to Expect

How to Adopt a Whippet: Rescues, Shelters, and Breed-Specific organizations

If you’re ready to find “Whippet adoption near me,” start with breed-specific organizations.

Local animal shelters also occasionally have Whippets or Whippet mixes available. You can even search for Whippets in your area right here at PetPlace!

Top Whippet Rescue Groups in the U.S.

Use the following resources to connect with national and local rescue organizations.

Key Questions to Ask Before Adopting

What to Expect During the Screening

The adoption process typically includes application review, home assessment, meet-and-greet, and contract signing.

Comparing Costs of Adoption vs. Breeder Purchase

Whippet adoption fees range from $200-$800, while purchasing from a breeder can cost about $1,500-$3,000.

Whippet Cost Breakdown: What It Takes to Raise One

Is a Whippet Right for You?

Whippets offer a unique combination of athleticism and tranquility that appeals to many dog lovers. Whippet size and personality make them excellent apartment dogs, while their speed and agility satisfy those seeking an active companion. However, their prey drive, cold sensitivity, and need for secure spaces require thoughtful consideration.

The ideal Whippet owner provides a warm, quiet home with access to safe, enclosed areas for exercise. These dogs thrive with consistent routines, gentle training, and owners who appreciate their sensitive, affectionate nature.

Whether you choose to adopt from a rescue or work with a reputable breeder, Whippets reward their families with years of loyal companionship. With proper care, these elegant sighthounds make exceptional family pets who are equally content sprinting across a yard or curled up beside you.