Whippet Dog Breed Guide: Complete Details, How to Choose, Train, Care, Pros, Cons, and Price

Whippets are often described as “the poor man’s racehorse” — swift, elegant, and gentle. With their sleek build and affectionate personalities, Whippets make wonderful family pets for those looking for a loving and relatively low-maintenance dog.

In this complete guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Whippets: their history, appearance, temperament, how to choose a puppy, how to train and care for them, pros and cons, and current pricing.

Breed Overview

Group: Hound
Height: 18–22 inches (46–56 cm)
Weight: 25–40 pounds (11–18 kg)
Lifespan: 12–15 years
Coat: Short, fine, smooth
Colors: Almost every color and pattern — brindle, black, white, fawn, blue, and more
Temperament: Gentle, affectionate, intelligent, athletic

Whippets are known for their incredible speed, able to reach up to 35 mph (56 km/h). But inside the home, they transform into loving couch potatoes.

History of the Whippet

The Whippet originated in England in the late 18th century. They were bred from small Greyhounds and other terriers, intended for hunting small game and racing.

Their speed and agility made them popular among working-class people who used them for hunting rabbits (“snap dogs”) and for racing (“rag racing”).

Today, Whippets are cherished companions, show dogs, and still excel in canine sports like lure coursing and agility competitions.

Physical Characteristics

Build: Slender, muscular, streamlined
Head: Long and lean with a slightly wide space between the eyes
Tail: Long, slender, and curved slightly upward at the end
Ears: Rose-shaped (folded back)
Movement: Smooth, effortless, and powerful

Their lightweight frame, combined with deep chests and strong hindquarters, is perfect for sprinting short distances.

Temperament and Personality

Whippets are gentle, sensitive, and affectionate dogs. Some of their key personality traits include:

Calm indoors: Despite being fast runners, they are quiet and relaxed at home.
Affectionate: They bond closely with their family and love cuddling.
Sensitive: They don’t respond well to harsh treatment or rough handling.
Reserved with strangers: They can be shy but are rarely aggressive.
Playful and energetic: Especially during outdoor activities.

They are known to “zoom” at high speed for short bursts but are mostly calm the rest of the time.

How to Choose a Whippet Puppy

Choosing a healthy Whippet puppy involves careful consideration:

Reputable Breeder: Only buy from breeders who health-test their breeding dogs for genetic issues.
Meet the Parents: The temperament of the puppy’s parents is a good indicator of how the puppy will behave.
Health Checks: Ensure puppies are vaccinated, dewormed, and vet-checked.
Observe Behavior: Choose a puppy that is playful, curious, and not overly timid or aggressive.
Documentation: Always ask for health certificates, registration papers, and a detailed history.

Pro Tip: Avoid buying from puppy mills or online ads that don’t allow you to visit the premises.

How to Train a Whippet

Whippets are intelligent but can be slightly stubborn if not properly motivated. Here’s how to train them effectively:

Positive Reinforcement: Use treats, praise, and play to encourage good behavior.
Short, Fun Sessions: Training should be brief and enjoyable.
Early Socialization: Expose them to various people, pets, sounds, and environments when they are young.
Recall Training: Very important because of their high prey drive — they may chase small animals.
Consistency and Patience: Gentle consistency works best, as Whippets are sensitive to harsh discipline.

Training your Whippet early ensures they grow into a well-mannered adult.

How to Care for a Whippet

1. Diet and Nutrition

High-quality dog food formulated for medium-sized breeds with moderate energy.
Feed measured meals twice a day to avoid obesity.
Treats should be given sparingly.

2. Exercise Needs

Daily walks (30–45 minutes).
Safe, fenced area for free running sessions.
Lure coursing or agility can provide excellent outlets for their energy.

Whippets are sprinters, not marathon runners. They don’t need endless exercise but appreciate short bursts of fast running.

3. Grooming

Minimal grooming needed.
Brush their coat weekly to remove loose hair.
Bathe only when necessary.
Check ears regularly and clean to prevent infections.
Trim nails regularly.

4. Health Care

Whippets are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they are prone to certain conditions:

Heart disease (Mitral Valve Disease).
Deafness.
Eye issues like Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA).
Anesthesia sensitivity: Because of their low body fat, they are more sensitive to anesthesia.

Regular veterinary check-ups and preventive care are key to a long, healthy life.

Living Conditions

Whippets thrive in homes where they are part of the family. They are:

Apartment-friendly: Due to their calm indoor nature.
Not suited for extreme cold: Their thin coat offers little insulation, so coats or sweaters are necessary during winter walks.
Fenced yard recommended: Because of their chase instinct, they should not be off-leash in unsecured areas.

They are happiest when they have a soft place to lounge and a family that includes them in daily life.

Pros and Cons of Owning a Whippet

Pros

✅ Low maintenance coat
✅ Gentle and affectionate
✅ Excellent with children and other dogs
✅ Quiet (not excessive barkers)
✅ Adaptable to small or large homes
✅ Fast but low-energy indoors

Cons

❌ Can be reserved with strangers
❌ High prey drive (may chase cats or small animals)
❌ Sensitive to cold
❌ Prone to certain health issues
❌ Can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone too long

Knowing both the strengths and challenges helps you prepare for a better relationship with your Whippet.

Whippet Price and Costs

The price of a Whippet puppy varies depending on bloodline, breeder reputation, and location:

United States: $800 – $2,000
United Kingdom: £700 – £1,500
Australia: AUD 1,500 – AUD 3,000
Malaysia: RM 3,000 – RM 6,000

Other annual costs to consider:

Food: $300 – $600
Veterinary Care: $200 – $500
Grooming Supplies: $50 – $100
Pet Insurance: $300 – $500 (optional but recommended)

Is a Whippet Right for You?

A Whippet may be perfect if:

You want a calm, affectionate dog who enjoys lounging.
You have a secure outdoor area or are willing to use a leash outdoors.
You can provide gentle, consistent training.
You are willing to protect them from cold weather.

They may not be ideal for households with small, free-roaming pets unless properly introduced and managed.

Conclusion

Whippets offer the perfect blend of speed and serenity. Their sweet nature, loyalty, and low-maintenance lifestyle make them an outstanding choice for many families and individuals.

If you are looking for a gentle companion that enjoys both playful sprints and lazy afternoons, the Whippet could be your ideal match. With proper care and love, a Whippet will reward you with years of devoted companionship and joy. 🐾