Whippet

A slim sighthound sometimes called the poor man's racehorse.

Quick facts

Origin: England
Size: Medium
Energy: Medium
Bred for: Racing and coursing
Lifespan: 12–15 years
Temperament: Gentle, calm, quick
Exercise: 60 min/day
Grooming: Low
Shedding: Low
Training: Easy
With children: Great
Apartment: Yes

Where the Whippet comes from

Whippets were bred in northern England as a poor man's racehorse, used for rabbit coursing and racing. They are essentially small greyhounds.

Personality and daily life

Gentle, calm and affectionate at home. Whippets are quiet and clean indoors, then explosive outside.

Whippets sprint hard then sleep all day. They suit homes with a secure place to run.

Exercise, grooming and health

A daily walk and the chance to sprint in a secure area. The short coat is easy to care for. They feel the cold. Generally healthy, with a long lifespan for their size.

Is a Whippet right for you?

Active or relaxed owners with a secure space to run. Good for apartments.

Copes well with apartment living
Great with children
Easy to train, good for beginners
Sheds little
Easy to groom

Similar breeds

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Profiles are general guides. Individual dogs vary, so always meet the dog and talk to a breeder, shelter or vet.