Whippet vs. West Highland White Terrier: Breed Differences and Similarities

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: Whippet or West Highland White Terrier?

1 / 5

Whippet has low obesity risk, but needs exercise and food monitoring for optimal health.

4 / 5

West Highland White Terrier has high obesity risk, needs regular exercise and food control to maintain healthy weight.

Hypoallergenic

Are Whippets or West Highland White Terriers hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, the Whippet is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, West Highland White Terriers are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Whippet and West Highland White Terrier dogs?

Affectionate
Gentle
Lively
Friendly
Intelligent
Quiet
Outright
Adaptable
Companionable

Affectionate
Courageous
Friendly
Independent
Alert
Intelligent

Shedding Level

Do Whippets shed more than West Highland White Terriers, or which breed sheds more, Whippets or West Highland White Terriers?

2 / 5

Whippets are low shedding dogs, requiring minimal coat care.

1 / 5

West Highland White Terriers shed very little hair, making them a great choice for those who dislike excess hair in the house.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Whippet or West Highland White Terrier?

3 / 5

The Whippet and West Highland White Terrier dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, these breeds will alert their owner.

Origin

What is the origin of Whippet and West Highland White Terrier dog breeds?

England

Scotland

Ancestry

What are the origins of Whippet and West Highland White Terrier breeds?

terrier, greyhound, spaniel

scottish, skye, dandie dinmont, and cairn terriers

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Whippet and West Highland White Terrier?

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

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
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
Club Espanol De Terriers

Date of Birth

When were Whippet and West Highland White Terrier breeds first developed?

1800s

Breed Group

What is the Breed Group of Whippet and West Highland White Terrier?

Hound (AKC:1888)
Sighthound & Pariah (UKC)

Terrier (AKC:1908)(UKC)

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Whippet and West Highland White Terrier dogs?

Brown

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Whippet and West Highland White Terrier?

Black

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Whippet and West Highland White Terrier breeds?

Black
Blue
White
Fawn
Red
Brindle

White

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Whippet and West Highland White Terrier breeds?

2 / 5

Whippets have coats that can be either short or medium in length.

3 / 5

West Highland White Terriers have medium-length coats.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Whippet and West Highland White Terrier?

2 / 5

3 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Whippet and West Highland White Terrier?

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Whippet and West Highland White Terrier?

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.

A West Highland White Terrier can have a litter of 12-16 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

5 / 5

Whippets are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

4 / 5

West Highland White Terriers are known for their adaptability and can adjust well to different environments and lifestyle changes.

Health Issues

Between Whippet and West Highland White Terrier, which breed is more prone to health problems?

3 / 5

While the Whippet breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

5 / 5

The West Highland White Terrier breed is generally very healthy, requiring minimal vet visits. Still, it's important to keep an eye on their health and seek veterinary care when needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Whippet and West Highland White Terrier breeds?

Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Von Willebrand's Disease
Anesthesia Sensitivity/Allergy
Corneal Dystrophy

Inguinal Hernias
Copper Toxicosis
Addison's Disease
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Whippet and West Highland White Terrier?

Cataracts
Lens Luxation

Craniomandibular Osteopathy

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Whippet and West Highland White Terrier breeds?

Blood Test
Dna For Vwd
Eye Examination
Physical Examination

Hip
Knee
Blood Test
X-Rays
Physical Examination

Energy

How do the energy levels of Whippets and West Highland White Terriers compare?

5 / 5

Whippets thrive on an active lifestyle due to their high-energy nature.

4 / 5

West Highland White Terriers' high energy levels make them unsuitable for a low-key dog, choose accordingly.

Social Needs

Whippet vs West Highland White Terrier social needs comparison

3 / 5

Whippet has average social needs and is less independent than other breeds.

4 / 5

West Highland White Terrier has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

Exercise Needed

Whippet vs West Highland White Terrier exercise need comparison.

3 / 5

Whippets need moderate physical activity and are great for families and active individuals.

4 / 5

West Highland White Terriers require significant physical activity and suit those with an active lifestyle.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Whippet or West Highland White Terrier?

1 / 5

Whippets are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.

2 / 5

West Highland White Terriers sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

Drooling Tendency

Which drools more/less, Whippet or West Highland White Terrier?

1 / 5

The Whippet and West Highland White Terrier breeds are known for their low drooling tendencies, making them a suitable choice for people who don't want to deal with drool marks on their clothing.

Tendency to Bark

Do Whippets or West Highland White Terriers bark more/less frequently?

1 / 5

Whippets are typically quiet and only bark when needed, such as to alert their owner or when in distress.

5 / 5

West Highland White Terrier dogs bark and howl frequently and are not recommended for quiet homes.

Territorial

Is the Whippet or West Highland White Terrier a better guard dog?

1 / 5

Whippet dogs are not typically good guard dogs due to their lack of protective nature and weak territorial drive.

5 / 5

West Highland White Terrier dogs are highly protective and make excellent guard dogs due to their strong instinct to defend their territory and owners, and their high level of vigilance.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Whippet vs West Highland White Terrier?

4 / 5

2 / 5

Roaming urge

Whippet vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

4 / 5

3 / 5

Prey Drive

Whippet or West Highland White Terrier - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

5 / 5

4 / 5

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Whippet and West Highland White Terrier entertained?

Run, Nap, Hunt, Fetch, Nose work, Eating Snacks, Dog Parks, Walks, Playdate, Tug-of-war, Toys

Belly rubs, Walking, Petting, Playing, Nap, Walk, Play, Run, Walking slow, Daily walks, River rafting, Camping, Hike

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Whippets or West Highland White Terriers?

Both Whippet and West Highland White Terrier are medium-energy dogs that enjoy socializing and playing with other dogs. They may engage in casual or sustained games of chase, and occasionally have bursts of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

3 / 5

2 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should Whippet or West Highland White Terrier walk each 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.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For West Highland White Terrier, it's at least 6 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Whippets or West Highland White Terriers require more exercise?

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.

In general most West Highland White Terriers usually need at least 30 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

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Whippets or West Highland White Terriers?

1 / 5

The Whippet is a low-maintenance breed that doesn't require much grooming.

4 / 5

West Highland White Terriers require significant grooming, including regular trims and professional grooming assistance to maintain their coat. They may also require frequent bathing to keep their coat and skin healthy.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Whippet and West Highland White Terrier dogs?

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

West Highland White Terrier should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Whippets and West Highland White Terriers?

Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Comb
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Whippet or West Highland White Terrier in cups?

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.

For an average 15-21 pound (7 - 10 kg) West Highland White Terrier feed 1.8 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

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Whippet or West Highland White Terrier?

The average cost of a Whippet is somewhere $1.70 - $2.00 per day.

The average cost of a West Highland White Terrier is somewhere $1.40 - $1.40 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Whippet or West Highland White Terrier?

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.

The average per month expenses of a West Highland White Terrier is between $35 - $42. This makes an average of $420 - $504 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

Comparing Intelligence: Whippets vs West Highland White Terriers

3 / 5

Whippet and West Highland White Terrier have average obedience intelligence, but they're also independent thinkers. This breed is known for having an exceptionally high IQ, which means they may get into trouble if left to their own devices.

Sensitivity Level

How do Whippet and West Highland White Terrier compare in sensitivity?

5 / 5

This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.

4 / 5

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Whippet vs West Highland White Terrier?

3 / 5

4 / 5

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Whippet or West Highland White Terrier?

5 / 5

Whippets make excellent apartment dogs, being fairly active indoors and not requiring a yard.

3 / 5

West Highland White Terriers are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

Child Friendly

Do Whippets or West Highland White Terriers have a friendlier temperament towards children?

4 / 5

Whippet and West Highland White Terrier 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

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Whippet or West Highland White Terrier?

4 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do Whippet or West Highland White Terrier breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

1 / 5

Whippets are not cat friendly.

3 / 5

West Highland White Terriers are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Whippet or West Highland White Terrier?

3 / 5

Whippets are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.

4 / 5

West Highland White Terriers are friendly and active companions, and can be good family pets, though their friendliness towards other dogs may vary.

Pet friendly

How do Whippet or West Highland White Terrier dogs interact with other pets?

1 / 5

3 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Whippet or West Highland White Terrier?

3 / 5

Whippets are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

4 / 5

West Highland White Terriers are friendly but may bark at strangers, and training is easy due to their intelligence.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Whippet and West Highland White Terrier?

3 / 5

Whippets have an average level of playfulness, enjoying playtime like most dogs but not excessively so.

5 / 5

West Highland White Terriers are very playful, so adopting an older one might be a better option for a more relaxed experience.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Whippets and West Highland White Terriers compare?

4 / 5

Whippet and West Highland White Terrier dogs are known for their ease of training and ability to learn quickly, making them a popular choice for pet owners and trainers alike.