Whippet Breed Information & Characteristics
Weight Gain Potential
Do Whippets get fat easily?
The Whippet is a dog breed that has a low risk for obesity. This means that they are less prone to gain weight than many other breeds, but it is still important to monitor their food intake and ensure they get enough exercise to maintain a healthy weight and overall well-being.
Hypoallergenic
Are Whippets Hypoallergenic?
Unfortunately, the Whippet is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.
Temperament
What is a Whippet personality? What are Whippet dogs best known for?
Affectionate
Gentle
Lively
Friendly
Intelligent
Quiet
Outright
Adaptable
Companionable
Shedding Level
Are Whippets heavy shedders? How Much Does a Whippet Shed?
Whippet dogs are low shedders. The coat sheds an average amount and doesn't require much care.
Watchdog Ability
What is the watchdog ability of a Whippet dog?
The Whippet dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, this breed will alert their owner.
Origin
Where do Whippets come from?
England
Ancestry
What are Whippets descended from?
terrier, greyhound, spaniel
Breed recognition
What organizations or kennel clubs recognize/register the Whippet breed?
American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club
Canadian Canine Registry
Date of Birth
When were Whippets first bred? How old is the Whippet breed?
1800s
Breed Group
What Breed Group is a Whippet?
Hound (AKC:1888)
Sighthound & Pariah (UKC)
Eye Color Possibilites
What color are Whippet eyes?
Brown
Nose Color Possibilites
What color can Whippet nose be naturally?
Black
Coat Color Possibilites
What color can Whippet coat be naturally?
Black
Blue
White
Fawn
Red
Brindle
Coat Length
How long is a Whippets coat?
The coat of a Whippet dog ranges in length from short to medium.
Coat Density
How Dense Is The Whippet Coat?
Coat Texture
What is the texture of the hair of a Whippet?
Straight
Litter Size
How many puppies can a Whippet have in a litter? How many puppies can a Whippet have in her first litter?
A Whippet can have a litter of 12-15 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.
Adaptability
Whippets are known for their adaptability and versatility, they are capable of adapting well to a wide range of lifestyle changes and living environments. They are a highly adaptable breed, and make great companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.
Health Issues
Do Whippets have a lot of health problems?
The Whippet is generally considered to be healthy. However, like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain health issues and it is important to keep an eye out for them and address them with your veterinarian as needed.
Major Concerns
What are the major health concerns to be aware of when owning a Whippet?
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Von Willebrand's Disease
Anesthesia Sensitivity/Allergy
Corneal Dystrophy
Minor Concerns
What are the less significant issues to keep in mind when it comes to Whippets?
Cataracts
Lens Luxation
Occasional Tests
What are the occasional tests recommended for Whippet breed?
Blood Test
Dna For Vwd
Eye Examination
Physical Examination
Energy
Do Whippets have a lot of energy?
Whippets are high-energy dogs, thus an active lifestyle suits them well.
Social Needs
Do Whippets need socialization? How social are Whippets?
Whippets have average social needs compared to other breeds. They are known to be less active and independent than other breeds, and they are content with spending time alone and with their human family.
Exercise Needed
How much exercise should Whippets get?
The Whippet dog requires a moderate amount of physical activity to maintain a healthy lifestyle. These breeds are ideal for people who have a moderate amount of time to devote to their pet and enjoy regular physical activity themselves. They also make great family pets as they have the energy to keep up with children and the temperament to be great companions.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep should a Whippet have? Do Whippets sleep a lot?
Whippets are active dogs that don't require as much sleep as other breeds. However, they still need enough sleep to stay healthy.
Drooling Tendency
Does a Whippet drool a lot?
The Whippet is a breed of dog that is characterized by its minimal drooling, making it an ideal choice for people who dislike drool marks on their clothing.
Tendency to Bark
How much does it bark?
Whippets are known to bark very little or not at all. They tend to be very quiet and do not bark excessively. They may only bark in specific situations, such as when they need to alert their owner to something important or when they are in distress.
Territorial
Do Whippets exhibit aggressive behavior to safeguard their home and territory? Do they possess a natural tendency to guard?
Whippet dogs are not known for their protective nature and may not be the best choice as guard dogs. They do not have a strong drive to defend their territory and may not be inclined to provide protection.
Mouthiness
Are Whippets mouthy?
Roaming urge
What is the likelihood of a Whippet running away? Do they have a tendency to explore or wander frequently?
Prey Drive
Do Whippet dogs have a high prey drive?
Past times
What do Whippets enjoy doing? How do I keep my Whippet busy?
Run, Nap, Hunt, Fetch, Nose work, Eating Snacks, Dog Parks, Walks, Playdate, Tug-of-war, Toys
Activity Level
What is the energy level of a Whippet? How much energy does a Whippet have?
Whippets are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.
Tolerance of being left alone
Walks per Week
How far should a Whippet walk each week? How many miles should a Whippet walk every week?
There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Whippet, it's at least 10 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.
Activity per Day
How much a Whippet should exercise a day? How much activity does a Whippet need?
In general most Whippets usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.
Grooming
What level of grooming should be provided for a Whippet?
The Whippet is a breed of dog that does not require extensive grooming.
Brushing Frequency
How often should you brush a Whippet?
In general Whippet should be brushed at least once a month. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes, especially if they enjoyed it
Brushing Tools
What are the most commonly used brushing tools for Whippets?
Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper
Cups
How many cups of food does a Whippet eat?
For an average 25-40 pound (11 - 18 kg) Whippet feed 2.8 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.
Daily Cost
How Much Does a Whippet Cost Daily?
The average cost of a Whippet is somewhere $1.70 - $2.00 per day.
Monthly Cost
How Much Does a Whippet Cost Per Month?
The average per month expenses of a Whippet is between $48 - $63. This makes an average of $576 - $756 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.
Intelligence
How intelligent is a Whippet?
Whippets has average obedience intelligence. But, they're also independent thinkers. The Whippet is a breed with an exceptionally high IQ and may get into mischief if left to their own devices.
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive is a Whippet dog?
This dog breed is particularly attuned to its environment and the emotions of those around it. It can be easily overwhelmed by loud noises, new environments, and unfamiliar people or animals. This dog is best suited for individuals or families who are patient, gentle, and understanding of its sensitive nature. It may also benefit from a calm and stable home environment, with a consistent routine and plenty of positive reinforcement training.
Affection Dependance
Are Whippet dogs affectionate?
Apartment Friendly
Do Whippet do well in apartments? Are Whippets good indoor dogs?
Whippets are known for being excellent apartment dogs. They are fairly active indoors and will do okay without a yard.
Child Friendly
Are Whippets good with kids? Are Whippets good around children?
Whippets are kid-friendly dogs. They are good with children and excellent dogs with children if they are socialized and trained at a young age.
Senior-friendly
Are Whippets good for elderly?
Cat Friendly
Are Whippets good with cats? How friendly Whippets are toward cats?
Whippets are not cat friendly dogs.
Dog Friendly
Do Whippet dogs get along with other dogs? Are Whippets OK with other dogs?
Whippets are average friendly towards other dogs. If they are raised with other dogs, they are likely to get along with them. And, if they are socialized properly from a young age, they will usually be great with other dogs.
Pet friendly
How do Whippet dogs interact with other pets? Are they considered pet-friendly?
Stranger Friendly
Are Whippets friendly with strangers?
Whippets are average friendly around strangers. They can be wary around strangers and a little standoffish. Early socialisation is key.
Playfulness
Do Whippets like to play? Are Whippets playful?
Whippets have an average level of playfulness. The Whippets, like other dogs, like to play. But they are not the most playful dog breed.
Trainability
Are Whippet easily trained?
Whippet dogs are known for their ease of training and ability to learn quickly, making them a popular choice for pet owners and trainers alike.
Compare Whippet with other breeds
Ratshire Terrier
Whippet vs Ratshire Terrier
Pugairn
Whippet vs Pugairn
Silkin
Whippet vs Silkin
Malinois Greyhound
Whippet vs Malinois Greyhound
Tamaskan
Whippet vs Tamaskan
Mountain Bulldog
Whippet vs Mountain Bulldog
Wheatador
Whippet vs Wheatador
Giant Schnoodle
Whippet vs Giant Schnoodle
American Chow Bulldog
Whippet vs American Chow Bulldog
Markiesje
Whippet vs Markiesje
Saint Bernard
Whippet vs Saint Bernard
Portuguese Water Dog
Whippet vs Portuguese Water Dog