The guide to owning a Whippet.
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Stats at a glance.
A history of Whippets.
Meet the Whippet, often called the ‘poor man’s Greyhound’. This slender breed was originally bred in England as a swift hunter of small game, packing mighty speed into a petite frame. Traditionally, these “mini Greyhound” dogs entertained coal miners through Whippet racing, a pastime where they zoomed after a waving rag as quickly as a racehorse out of the gate.
Over time, these active dogs found their place not only at dog shows like Crufts but also as family companions known for their gentle and affectionate nature.
When you picture a Whippet, think of them as smaller cousins to the Italian Greyhound and other sighthounds such as the Saluki, with the added bonus of snuggle time on your sofa.
How much is a Whippet puppy (UK)?
If you’re thinking of buying a Whippet or you’re just curious about buying a Whippet puppy, prices can vary. Expect a typical range of £400–£1,600, depending on breeder reputation, lineage, and location.
Show-line or purebred pups with desirable traits might cost more.
Here’s what to look for in a reputable breeder
They welcome you to see the mother, and ideally, the father.
They share up-to-date health tests or vet records.
They ask lots of questions about your lifestyle.
Colours and coat types.
Whippets are surprisingly stylish in their hues. They come in a wide variety of shades, from a pure black Whippet to sandy, white, brindle, or two-toned. This breed of dog is well known for its short fur, which is sleek and easy to maintain.
Because Whippets can appear in a wide variety of colours, you can find everything from subtle minimal patterns to eye-popping combos.
Their soft coat calls for minimal grooming, though they may need an extra jumper in colder months since they have very little body fat.
Size and weight.
Though often compared to a smaller Greyhound, the Whippet’s build is lean and athletic:
Height: 44–51 cm (at the shoulder).
Weight: 9–14 kg.
They are a pedigree dog that stays light enough to snooze on your lap but tall enough to keep up on your weekend hikes. Think of them as a slender build that’s perfect for short bursts of speed and agility.
Temperament and behaviour.
The Whippet temperament is famously calm at home and energetic outdoors. They’re typically loving with their families, though a high prey drive means anything small and scurrying can spark a quick chase.
Fans of the Kennel Club will tell you these sweethearts adore cuddles and warmth and often love to perch near a heater when the weather gets nippy.
Do Whippets make good pets?
Yes, if you’re considering a Whippet, they can be wonderful companions. Whippets are known for lazing about indoors, but once you step outside, they happily transform into their mini Greyhound mode. Despite their racing heritage, they don’t need a full day of running. They’re content with moderate walks and sprint play.
Curious if they suit family life? Check out our best family dogs in the UK for a broader overview of other champion snugglers.
Are Whippets good with kids?
Many Whippets make gentle pals for considerate children, but supervision is wise, especially if the dog is feeling shy around loud kiddos. They can be timid if not used to meeting new people from an early age.
Are Whippets good with cats?
Some can live peaceably with cats, but that sighthound heritage can kick in if kitty goes sprinting. Careful introductions and a confident cat help. Not all Whippets can resist a chase, so always observe interactions.
Do Whippets suffer from separation anxiety?
They bond deeply with their people, so being alone for lengthy stretches might frustrate them. If you worry about this, take a glance at our managing separation anxiety in dogs guide to find strategies.
Can Whippets be left alone?
Yes, for a few hours if you keep your dog well-exercised and mentally stimulated first. Puzzle toys or a cosy spot near a window can help. Longer absences may require a pet sitter or dog-walking friend.
Can Whippets live in apartments?
Yes, as long as you meet their exercise needs. Because Whippets are quieter than many breeds like terriers, they typically adapt to small living spaces. Just be mindful that these active dogs need a secure place to dash about.
Training a Whippet.
Are Whippets smart?
Yes, they’re bright but may show an independent streak. Remember, they’re a sighthound. Once a Whippet sees a squirrel, you might lose their attention. Patience, consistency, and positive methods work best.
For best results:
Start training early, focusing on recall.
Keep sessions short and reward-based.
Maintain a safe, enclosed area for off-lead romps.
Shedding and grooming.
Thanks to that short fur, Whippets generally share the same low-maintenance grooming routine. A quick weekly brush helps remove loose hair, plus a mild dog-friendly shampoo if they get muddy.
They do not tend to shed a lot at all, although you may notice a few extra hairs on your furniture during spring and autumn.
How often should I brush my Whippet?
As we said above, once weekly or as needed does the trick. A soft bristle brush or rubber hound glove can handle that sleek coat without irritating their sensitive skin.
Exercise needs.
Don’t let their couch-loving demeanour fool you. A Whippet thrives with a balance of calm downtime and bursts of running.
They rely heavily on eyes and speed, so a fenced field for short bursts of sprints is heaven for them.
Their amount of exercise might include moderate daily walks plus 15–20 minutes of full-on sprinting or fetch.
They’re quite content after these sessions and will probably take time to flop on the sofa. Brain-teaser toys or gentle dog sports like lure coursing can also keep them sharp.
Wondering how to liven up your routine? Check out our ideas for how to make your dog happy.
Feeding and nutrition.
A typical adult Whippet will need 1–2 cups of good-quality kibble daily, split into two meals. This can shift based on energy output, physical and mental health, or a vet’s advice.
Because they have slight frames, watch your dog’s body condition to avoid weight swings. Vet bills for overfeeding can add up if obesity leads to joint strain or heart failure concerns later on.
Common health issues in Whippets.
While the Whippet is a relatively healthy breed known for minimal concerns, there are a few issues to keep on your radar:
Costs for illustration only. Prices shift based on severity and your location, etc, but early check-ups help catch problems before they escalate.
Pet insurance for Whippets.
Rehoming or buying a Whippet means preparing for possible future vet bills. Due to their speed-related injuries or rare concerns like mitral valve disease, insurance can provide peace of mind.
At Waggel, we offer:
Lifetime cover for ongoing conditions.
24/7 online vet chat.
Behaviour and nutrition support.
Giving your new dog strong coverage means they can dash around the park without you worrying about unexpected costs.
A Whippet can be your ultimate buddy with equal parts playful sprinter and devoted couch potato. If you’re thinking of buying or adopting, make sure you have the right home to let them run and rest.
Keep them safe around small pets, schedule veterinary check-ups, and enjoy their unique personality. After all, Whippets are gentle, loyal, and fun-loving, making them an absolute joy to welcome into your family.