Whippet Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Whippet is a smaller, graceful sighthound, often described as a Greyhound in miniature. It is gentle, quiet and affectionate indoors, and capable of astonishing speed outdoors.

Origins and appearance

Whippets were developed in England as racing and rabbit-coursing dogs for working people. They are lean and elegant, with a long head, a deep chest, a tucked waist, a short, smooth coat in many colors and a long, tapering tail. Their thin coat offers little protection from cold.

Temperament

They are gentle, affectionate and sensitive. They love family and are usually good with children and other dogs. They are calm indoors but playful. Many chase small animals. They dislike being left alone and cold.

Exercise

They need daily walks and a safe place to sprint, plus play. They enjoy lure coursing and racing. Avoid hot weather. They should never be off-leash outside fenced areas.

Training

They are intelligent but sensitive. Use positive methods and early socialization. Avoid harsh corrections. House training can be slow in cold weather.

Coat and grooming

The short coat needs weekly brushing. See short coat dog grooming guide. Brush teeth regularly, trim nails and check ears. They need a coat in cold weather.

Health considerations

The breed is generally healthy, but topics include:

• Dental disease. See dental disease in dogs
• Heart murmurs and mitral valve disease. See heart murmurs in dogs
• Sensitivity to anesthesia
• Skin tears
• Eye conditions
• Muscle injuries

Living with a Whippet

Whippets fit well into flats and houses, because they are clean, quiet and calm when exercised. They like warmth and softness, and many burrow under blankets. Their small size and gentle manner make them popular with families, though a fence is essential.

A typical day

A Whippet might enjoy a lazy morning, a brisk walk, a sprint in a safe field and a long afternoon sleep on the best cushion in the house. Evenings often involve a snuggle under a blanket.

Puppies and the first year

Whippet puppies are playful and fast, with thin skin that can tear easily. Provide safe areas to run, avoid rough surfaces and start recall on a long line. Keep growing joints safe with moderate exercise. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Plan for coats, bedding, secure fencing, routine care and an emergency fund for cuts and sprains. Whippets are generally affordable to feed but can need more dental care. See dog vet cost guide.

Seasons and travel

Whippets shiver in cold, so a warm coat is often needed outdoors. In summer they like to lie in sun but need shade. Many travel well and adapt to hotels and holidays.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include trusting off-leash recall, skipping dental care, ignoring cold weather and hard beds.

Choosing a puppy or adult

Ask about heart and eye tests, and the parents' temperaments. Adult retired racers or companions are sometimes available.

Sprints and sofas

Whippets switch quickly between speed and stillness. Provide a safe place to sprint and a soft place to nap, and they are content.

Safety around small animals

Most Whippets chase small animals, including cats. Introduce pets carefully, supervise and secure fences.

Daily care checklist

• A walk and a sprint in a secure space.
• A rub-down with a soft mitt.
• A coat in cool weather.
• A warm, soft bed.
• Tooth care and a check for cuts.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Whippet suits people who want a clean, quiet, gentle sighthound and can provide a secure fence and warmth. It may not suit those with small pets that cannot be managed. For a larger relative, see the Greyhound.

Racing, coursing and other sports

Whippets are enthusiastic competitors in lure coursing, straight racing and agility. For first-timers, local clubs host fun runs where dogs can sprint safely on a fenced track with a lure. Always warm up the dog with a short walk and a few easy trots, check pads afterward and cool down gradually. Even a casual sprint in a secure field once a week keeps a Whippet happy, fit and well-behaved indoors.

Living with a sensitive, cuddly dog

Whippets want to be near their people, and many burrow under blankets. Provide a warm bed, a heated mat in cold climates and gentle training. They respond poorly to scolding and thrive on praise.

The takeaway

Whippets are sleek, gentle and fast, and they need secure fencing, warmth and dental care.