The Whippet is a dog of two modes: 0 mph and 35 mph. Indoors, they are the ultimate couch potatoes—quiet, gentle, and experts at curling into impossible shapes under a blanket. Outdoors, they are lightning bolts—sleek, aerodynamic machines capable of breathtaking speed.
Often mistaken for a small Greyhound, the Whippet is a distinct breed with a unique history. They are widely considered one of the best-kept secrets in the dog world: a low-maintenance, medium-sized dog that is perfect for apartments but can still outrun almost anything on four legs.
Gentle, sensitive, and deeply affectionate, the Whippet is not just a racer; they are a lover. If you want a dog that will sprint with you in the park and then snuggle with you for the next 12 hours, the Whippet is your match.
History and Origin: The Poor Man’s Racehorse
In 19th-century Northern England, coal miners and factory workers loved dog racing, but they couldn’t afford to keep large Greyhounds. So, they created a smaller version.
They crossed small Greyhounds with tall terriers (likely Bedlington or Manchester Terriers) to create the Whippet. These dogs were used for “snap racing” (chasing rabbits in an enclosure) and later for straight-line rag racing. They earned the nickname “The Poor Man’s Racehorse” because they were cheap to feed but fast enough to win gambling money for their owners.
Unlike many working breeds that lived in kennels, Whippets lived in the miners’ small cottages, often sleeping in bed with the family for warmth. This history created a breed that is exceptionally clean, house-proud, and bonded to humans.
Physical Characteristics
The Whippet is a masterpiece of aerodynamic design. Every curve is built for speed.
- Height: Males 19-22 inches; females 18-21 inches.
- Weight: 25 to 40 pounds.
The “S-Curve”
The hallmark of the breed is the graceful “S” shape formed by their deep chest and arched loin. This flexibility allows them to execute the “double suspension gallop,” where all four feet are off the ground twice in each stride.
Coat and Color
The coat is extremely short and fine. It feels like satin.
- Color: Anything goes! Black, fawn, blue, red, brindle, white, or any combination.
- Thin Skin: They have very little body fat and thin skin. They tear easily if they run through brambles, and they feel the cold intensely.
Temperament: The Gentle Soul
Whippets are sweet-natured, quiet, and sensitive.
The “On/Off” Switch
This is their best trait. Inside, they are incredibly calm. They rarely bark without reason. They are happy to sleep for hours. But show them a lure or a ball, and they explode into action.
Affectionate
They are not aloof like some sighthounds. A Whippet wants to be touching you. They are “leaners”—they will lean their entire weight against your leg.
Prey Drive
Do not trust them off-leash in an unfenced area. They are sighthounds. If a squirrel runs, they will chase it. And at 35mph, you cannot catch them. They can kill small animals instantly (the “snap”).
Whippet vs. Greyhound vs. Italian Greyhound
It’s easy to get the “skinny dogs” mixed up.
- Greyhound: The giant. 60-90 lbs. Calm and dignified.
- Whippet: The middle child. 25-40 lbs. The most “dog-like” and playful.
- Italian Greyhound (Iggy): The toy. 7-14 lbs. Fragile and velcro-clingy.
Energy Level and Exercise
Despite their speed, they are moderate-energy dogs.
- Sprints: They don’t need miles of jogging. They need “zoomies.” A few minutes of high-speed sprinting in a fenced yard or park is often enough to tire them out for the day.
- Walks: A standard daily walk is fine for the rest.
- Lure Coursing: This is the sport they were born for. Watching a Whippet chase a plastic bag on a line is poetry in motion.
Training: The Recall Challenge
Whippets are smart but independent.
- Recall Training: This is the most critical and difficult command. Because their prey drive is so strong, even the best-trained Whippet might ignore you if they see a rabbit. Never rely 100% on recall near roads.
- Positive Methods: They are sensitive. Yelling or harsh corrections will make them fearful. Treat-based training works best (they are usually hungry!).
- Sit: Fun fact—the Whippet’s anatomy makes sitting squarely a bit uncomfortable. They often hover or slide into a “sloppy sit.”
Health and Lifespan
Whippets are generally robust, living 12 to 15 years.
- Heart Issues: Mitral Valve Disease.
- Eye Problems: PRA.
- Anesthesia Sensitivity: Like all sighthounds, they have low body fat and process drugs differently. Make sure your vet is sighthound-savvy.
- Bully Whippet Syndrome: A genetic mutation (myostatin deficiency) that creates “double muscled” dogs that look like bodybuilders. (Rare, but famous).
The Whippet Wardrobe
Owning a Whippet means buying dog clothes. This is not just for fashion; it is a medical necessity.
- Winter: They need heavy coats. They will shiver uncontrollably in the cold.
- Night: They need pajamas. Yes, really.
- Rain: They hate rain. A raincoat is helpful, though they still might refuse to go out.
Is a Whippet Right for You?
Yes, if:
- You live in an apartment (they are quiet and clean).
- You want a cuddle-bug who loves the sofa.
- You can provide a safe, fenced area for sprints.
- You don’t mind dressing your dog up.
No, if:
- You want an off-leash dog for hiking (prey drive risk).
- You have cats or small rabbits (prey drive risk).
- You want a rough-and-tumble dog (their skin is thin).
- You want a guard dog (they will likely hide behind you).
The Whippet is a gentle, elegant, and low-maintenance friend. They offer the best of both worlds: the thrill of the race and the comfort of the cuddle. Once you own a Whippet, you rarely go back to other breeds.