Whippet
Summary
The Whippet emerged in England in the 19th century among workers of the industrial north, who developed this medium-sized sighthound — crossing Greyhounds with terriers — to race on improvised tracks and catch rabbits. Dubbed the "Poor Man's Racehorse," it quickly proved to be not only an extraordinary athlete but also an exemplary domestic companion: affectionate, clean, rarely destructive, and simple to maintain. It is considered one of the breeds with the best overall health among sighthounds.
Physical Characteristics
- Size
- Medium
- Height (male)
- 47–51 cm
- Height (female)
- 44–47 cm
- Weight (male)
- 12.5–18 kg
- Weight (female)
- 10–14 kg
- Life Expectancy
- 12–15 years
- Coat
- Very short, smooth, dense, and firm to the touch; practically no undercoat
- Common Colors
- Any color and pattern — black, white, red, fawn, blue, cream, brindle, and combinations; merle color is not accepted (eliminated from FCI registry since 2019)
Temperament & Personality
The Whippet is a dog of dual nature: a relentless sprinter outdoors and a couch addict at home. It is gentle, affectionate, calm, and forms strong bonds with the family, including children. It is more emotionally sensitive than it appears and does not respond well to punishment-based training. It can develop separation anxiety if not gradually accustomed to solitude. The chase instinct is very strong — it should never be let loose without a secure fence.
Activity & Exercise
- Energy Level
- Moderate to high
- Recommended Daily Exercise
- 45–60 minutes
Grooming & Care
- Grooming Needs
- Very low
- Shedding
- Low to moderate
- Bathing Frequency
- Every 4–6 weeks
Health
- Common Health Issues
- Anesthesia and certain medication sensitivity (MDR1)
- Congenital deafness
- Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV — less frequent than in larger breeds)
- Hereditary cataracts
- Hypothyroidism
- Idiopathic epilepsy
- Mitral valve disease (MVD — main cardiac cause in senior Whippets)
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
- Recommended Health Tests
- BAER test (hearing)
- Eye examination
- Periodic cardiac evaluation (echocardiogram)
- Thyroid analysis
Compatibility
- With Children
- Excellent
- With Other Dogs
- Excellent
- For First-Time Owners
- Recommended
