Whippet

Breed Group: Hound

Size: Medium

Height: 18–22 inches

Weight: 25–40 pounds

Coat Type: Short, smooth, and fine-textured coat that is easy to groom and maintain.

Coat Colors: Black, blue, fawn, red, white, brindle, cream, and various combinations.

Temperament: Gentle, playful, affectionate, intelligent, quiet, and friendly. Whippets are known for being sensitive and people-oriented.

Energy Level: High; famous for explosive bursts of speed during play, balanced by calm, couch-loving behavior indoors.

Good with Children: Yes (especially when socialized from an early age)

Good with Other Pets: Yes (though their prey drive means small animals should be supervised)

Trainability: High – eager to please and quick to learn with positive reinforcement. Gentle methods work best due to their sensitive nature.

Barking Tendency: Low; typically quiet and reserved, often barking only when necessary.

Lifespan: 12–15 years

Health Issues: Heart disease, eye disorders, sensitivity to anesthesia, and occasional deafness in some lines. Regular veterinary checkups are recommended.

Exercise Requirements: High; thrives on sprinting, lure coursing, and open-space runs, plus regular walks to keep both body and mind healthy.

Hypoallergenic: No

History: The Whippet developed in 19th-century England, bred by crossing small Greyhounds with terrier-type dogs to create a swift, agile sighthound for racing and rabbit hunting. Known as the “poor man’s racehorse,” Whippets were especially popular among working-class communities. Today, they excel in lure coursing, agility, and as loving family companions, combining athletic ability with a calm, affectionate temperament at home.