Dog Breed
Whippet
Freindliness
Exercise Needs
Health Issues
Barking Tendencies
Grooming Needs
Shedding Level
Speed meets sofa
Dignified and calm, Whippets are elegant dogs built for speed. While they’re capable of impressive bursts of running, they’re equally famous for stretching out on the couch once their energy is spent.
Affectionate and social, Whippets tend to bond closely with their families. They’re gentle with children and generally friendly with other dogs, making them wonderful companions for the right household.
Caring for your Whippet
Nutrition
Choosing the right food
Every dog is unique. From small companions to large, active breeds with different nutritional needs. ROYAL CANIN® Size Health Nutrition is designed to support dogs based on their size and life stage, helping maintain overall health, vitality and wellbeing. These formulas use carefully selected protein sources, targeted nutrients and tailored kibble to support digestion, energy levels, and bone and joint health across small, medium and large dogs.
Exercising your dog
Whippets are true sprinters and can reach impressive speeds in short bursts. Around one hour of exercise each day, including daily walks, helps keep them physically and mentally balanced.
They enjoy secure spaces where they can safely run at full speed. Because of their strong prey drive, they should only be let off lead in fully fenced areas.
After a good run, most Whippets are content to relax and snooze for the rest of the day, making them surprisingly low maintenance indoors.
Training your Whippet
Whippets are intelligent and sensitive dogs. They respond best to gentle, consistent training that uses praise and rewards rather than harsh correction.
Early socialisation and basic training help young Whippets learn how to behave around people and other dogs. Positive experiences during puppyhood are especially important.
Because of their prey drive, recall can be challenging in open spaces. Ongoing training and secure environments help keep them safe.
Your dog's health
By recognising health problems in Whippets early you can seek advice and treatment from a veterinarian.
Reduce the risk of health problems by purchasing a puppy from a responsible breeder. Always inspect breeding facilities and breeding dogs, and never buy from a distant online seller.
Health Issues to watch out for:
Thyroid Problems
Blindness
Deafness
Grooming your dog
Whippets have short, smooth coats that are easy to maintain. Weekly brushing with a soft brush or grooming glove helps remove loose hair and keep their coat shiny.
They don’t have a strong doggy smell and usually only need occasional baths. Because their skin is thin, care should be taken to avoid rough handling.
Regular nail trims and daily teeth brushing are important, especially as dental care is a key part of maintaining overall health.
Key characteristics of Whippets
Whippet FAQs
Whippet FAQs answer common questions about living with a Whippet, including exercise needs, temperament, and suitability for different households. This section helps owners decide whether a Whippet is the right fit for their lifestyle.
Are Whippets good family dogs?
Yes, Whippets are generally gentle and affectionate family dogs. They’re usually good with children and other dogs when properly socialised.
Do Whippets need a lot of exercise?
Whippets need daily exercise, including regular walks and opportunities to sprint in secure areas. Although they’re very fast, they’re sprinters rather than endurance dogs.
Are Whippets good for apartment living?
Yes, Whippets are typically calm and quiet indoors, which makes them well suited to apartment living when exercised daily.
Do Whippets shed?
Whippets shed very little and have low grooming needs. Weekly brushing is usually enough to keep their coat in good condition.
Are Whippets medium or large dogs?
Whippets are generally considered medium-sized dogs. They’re tall and athletic but have a light build compared to many large breeds.
This FAQ section highlights what you need to know about living with a Whippet. With the right balance of exercise, training, and companionship, a Whippet can be a gentle, low-maintenance companion for active but relaxed households.