In the United States, Whippets are not as well known as their Greyhound cousins. However, Whippets can make wonderful family pets that are easy to train and incredibly affectionate towards their human families.

Bred from Greyhounds, Italian greyhounds and a number of terrier breeds, the Whippet was originally created as a sporting animal for recreational racing. Unsurprisingly, therefore, there are many similarities to be drawn between the Whippet and the Greyhound.

What Does a Whippet Look Like?

On average, Whippets grow to approximately 20 inches in height, with males typically slightly larger than females. Most adults will weigh between 30 and 40 pounds, making them almost two thirds to half the size of a Greyhound.

A Whippet’s coat can be numerous colors. The most common colors are white, blue, black or brown. In fact, according to the American Kennel Club, in terms of showing a Whippet, the coat color is “immaterial”. However, the AKC does state that a Whippet should be “…an impression of beautifully balanced muscular power and strength, combined with great elegance and grace of outline.” Nevertheless, all Whippets, show standard or not, make excellent pets.

Unlike, the Greyhound, which is often considered to be a ‘hypoallergenic’ breed, the Whippet does shed. Due to its very short coat, this may not be noticeable, but allergy sufferers may feel the adverse effects.

Whippets Are Like Greyhounds

Being bred from Greyhounds, it is unsurprising that Whippets have many of the Greyhound’s character traits. For example, they are incredibly loyal and devoted to their owners. They are typically very gentle, making them suitable for households with children and other animals.

Usually, Whippets are quiet dogs and are not known to bark, which could make them ideal as apartment pets. In addition, the breed is known for its patience, it is very rare to find an aggressive Whippet and this is usually caused by repeated and cruel provocation.

Like Greyhounds, Whippets are not hardy dogs despite their racing roots. Therefore, it is unwise to keep them outside, especially in cold weather. Additionally, due to a distinct lack of body fat, hard surfaces can cause damage to the dog’s joints. Subsequently, plenty of soft bedding is required to ensure his, or her, comfort.

Whippets Are Not Like Greyhounds

Despite the above similarities between Whippets and Greyhounds, there are also a number of differences between the two breeds.

Greyhounds have a reputation for becoming very attached to their owners. However, the Whippet is known for taking this attachment to a new level. If not trained correctly, they will want to sleep with you, share your food and follow you everywhere. Therefore, the breed is ideal for someone who is looking for a companion as well as a pet. However, if your job or other commitments will require you to leave your dog alone for lengthy periods, it is unwise to choose a Whippet, as he, or she, will become very distressed during your absences.

Another difference is in its energy levels. Greyhounds are renowned for their paradoxical laziness. The Whippet, on the other hand, tends to have a lot more energy and will want plenty of exercise and play. That said, they do not have the endurance to run or play for extended periods. In dog terms, the Whippet is still a lazy dog, but in comparison to the Greyhound it requires more physical activity.

If you are interested in Whippets and think that you could offer one a good home, you may like to consider adopting an abandoned dog. There are numerous rescue organizations, which can be found through your local rescue center or the American Whippet Club.