Whippet Breed Guide
Also known as: English Whippet, Snap Dog
Gentle speedsters, Whippets are quiet, affectionate sighthounds whose moderate exercise needs and calm nature suit those wanting elegant, low-maintenance companions.
Quick facts about this breed
Size
Medium
Weight
9-18 kg
Lifespan
12-15 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
Low
Size
Medium
Weight
9-18 kg
Lifespan
12-15 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
Low
About Whippets
The Whippet originated in England during the 19th century, developed by working-class people who wanted a smaller version of the Greyhound for rabbit hunting and racing. These dogs were bred for speed and became known as the poor man's racehorse.
Whippets are medium-sized sighthounds with short, smooth coats in various colours and patterns. They're known for their aerodynamic build, gentle expressions, and incredible speed despite their moderate size.
These dogs are gentle, quiet, and make excellent family pets. They're known for their calm demeanour indoors and their love of comfort, often seeking out soft beds and warm spots. They require moderate exercise but are generally content with short bursts of activity. While generally healthy, potential concerns include heart problems, eye conditions, and sensitivity to anaesthesia. Early socialisation helps ensure they're well-adjusted around small pets due to their strong prey drive.
Complete Care Guide for Whippets
Expert advice on keeping your Whippet healthy, happy, and thriving at every stage of life.
Proper nutrition forms the foundation of a healthy Whippet's lifestyle, with their unique athletic build requiring careful attention to dietary needs. These graceful sighthounds thrive on high-quality protein sources that support their lean muscle mass, combined with essential fats for sustained energy throughout their active days.
Understanding appropriate portion sizes proves crucial, as Whippets should maintain a distinctly lean physique that might appear thin to the untrained eye. While their slender appearance may concern some owners, this natural body condition actually represents optimal health for the breed. Regular weight monitoring helps ensure they receive adequate calories without overfeeding.
When selecting commercial dog food, opt for premium formulations specifically designed for active breeds, ensuring the protein content meets their metabolic requirements. For those considering homemade diets, consultation with a veterinary nutritionist becomes essential to create properly balanced meals that address all nutritional needs.
Meal timing and frequency deserve careful consideration, particularly for active Whippets engaged in regular exercise or sports. Most adults do well with two measured meals daily, though younger dogs may require three smaller portions to maintain steady energy levels. Always ensure fresh water remains available, especially during periods of physical activity.
How healthy is your Whippet?
A two minute quiz for your personalised results and health plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about Whippets from our community of pet parents
Whippets are known for their gentle and affectionate temperament. They are generally quiet, docile dogs who enjoy spending time with their human family. Despite their racing heritage, Whippets are not high-energy dogs and are content to spend much of their day sleeping. However, they are also playful and can display bursts of energy, particularly when outdoors. They get along well with other dogs and can live happily with other pets, although their strong prey drive may pose an issue with small animals.
Dog Breeds Similar to Whippet
Explore breeds with comparable temperament, size, and care requirements to the Whippet
Saluki
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Italian Greyhound
Miniature sighthounds with elegant grace, Italian Greyhounds are gentle, affectionate companions whose delicate beauty appeals to those wanting refined pets.
Greyhound
Fastest dogs on earth who prefer lounging, Greyhounds are gentle, quiet companions whose minimal exercise needs surprise those unfamiliar with sighthounds.