Whippet

The Whippet is a sleek, elegant sighthound often called the "poor man's racehorse." Combining Greyhound-like speed with a gentle, affectionate temperament, they are ideal companions who love to sprint and then curl up on the couch.

Developed in Victorian England by crossing small Greyhounds with terriers, Whippets were bred by working-class people for rabbit coursing and later racing. AKC recognized in 1888.

A medium-sized, lean, aerodynamic dog with a deep chest, tucked waist, and long, slender legs. Smooth, fine coat. They look like a smaller, more refined Greyhound.

Gentle, affectionate, and playful, the Whippet is one of the most well-balanced breeds. They love to run at top speed and then cuddle on the couch. They are sensitive, sweet, and deeply attached to their families.

Very friendly and gentle with everyone. Excellent with children. Good with other dogs, especially sighthounds. Prey drive toward small running animals. Loving and demonstrative.

Moderate exercise—daily walks plus regular opportunities to sprint in a safe area. They are sprinters, not endurance runners. Content with short bursts of activity followed by long rest periods.

One of the easiest sighthound breeds to train. They are eager to please and respond well to positive reinforcement. Sensitive to harsh corrections. Good at obedience and agility.

Extremely low-maintenance. Brief weekly brushing. Occasional baths. They have virtually no doggy odor. Their fine skin is prone to cuts.

Generally very healthy with a long lifespan. Sensitive to anesthesia and certain chemicals. Cardiac screening is recommended. Their thin skin is prone to lacerations.

Do well on quality food. They should be lean—visible ribs are normal. Two meals daily. Not prone to overeating. Some can be picky eaters.

Excellent apartment dogs. Quiet, clean, and calm indoors. They need warm beds and blankets. Cannot tolerate cold weather well. Must be leashed or in fenced areas outdoors.

Ideal for a wide range of families. Excellent first-time dog. Great for apartments, families with children, or active seniors. One of the most versatile and adaptable breeds.

Smart and responsive. They learn quickly and enjoy training. More biddable than most sighthound breeds. Good at reading their owner's emotions.

Very quiet breed. Rarely bark and are peaceful apartment companions. One of the quietest breeds available.

Very low shedding. Their fine, short coat produces minimal loose hair.

Whippet rescue organizations are available. They adapt well to home life. Ask about prey drive and socialization history.

Playful, energetic puppies that are easier to train than most sighthound breeds. Early socialization is beneficial. They grow quickly and need gentle handling.

Senior Whippets remain affectionate and gentle. Provide warm bedding and sweaters. Continue gentle exercise. Their good health supports a long, comfortable senior life.