Whippet vs Greyhound: Speed, Size, and Temperament Compared

Whippets and Greyhounds share many traits as sighthounds, but they differ in size and some personality aspects. Both breeds are known for their slender builds and incredible speed. Let’s take a look at the similarities and differences between these two dog breeds.

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Whippet Characteristics

• Whippets are smaller sighthounds with a graceful appearance. They typically stand 18-22 inches tall at the shoulder. These dogs weigh between 25-40 pounds on average.
• Whippets have short, smooth coats that come in various colors and patterns. Their bodies are lean and muscular, with a distinctive curved back.
• These dogs are gentle and affectionate companions. They enjoy short bursts of exercise but are content to relax at home. Whippets are known for their calm demeanor and make great family pets.

Greyhound Characteristics

• Greyhounds are larger sighthounds, standing 27-30 inches tall at the shoulder. They typically weigh between 60-70 pounds, making them significantly bigger than Whippets.
• These dogs have a similar body shape to Whippets but on a larger scale. They possess long legs, deep chests, and narrow waists. Greyhounds also have short, smooth coats in various colors.
• Greyhounds are known for their gentle and laid-back personalities. They require moderate exercise but are often content to lounge around. These dogs are patient and adaptable, making them suitable for various living situations.

Physical Characteristics

Whippets and Greyhounds share a sleek, athletic build but differ in size and some subtle physical traits. Both breeds have short, fine coats that come in a variety of colors.

Size Comparison

• Whippets are smaller than Greyhounds. They stand 18-22 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh 25-45 pounds. Greyhounds are larger, measuring 28-30 inches in height and weighing 60-70 pounds.
• Whippets have a more compact frame. Their smaller size makes them better suited for indoor living. Greyhounds need more space due to their larger build.
• Both breeds have long legs and deep chests. This body shape helps them reach high speeds when running.

Coat and Colors

Whippets and Greyhounds have similar coat types. Their fur is short, smooth, and fine. Greyhounds may have slightly longer hair than Whippets.

Both breeds come in many colors. Common shades include:

• White
• Black
• Fawn
• Brindle
• Blue

Whippets and Greyhounds can have solid colors or patterns. Some dogs have white markings on their chests or paws. Their coats are low-maintenance. Weekly brushing is usually enough to keep them clean and healthy.

Temperament and Personality

Whippets and Greyhounds have distinct personalities despite their similar appearances. These sighthounds share some traits but differ in key ways that potential owners should consider.

Whippet Temperament

• Whippets are gentle and affectionate dogs. They form strong bonds with their families and enjoy cuddling. These dogs are typically calm indoors but have bursts of energy outdoors.
• Whippets are sensitive and can be shy around strangers. Early socialization helps them become more confident. They get along well with children and other pets when raised together.
• These dogs have a moderate energy level. They need daily exercise but are content to lounge around afterward. Whippets can be stubborn at times, which may pose challenges during training.

Greyhound Temperament

• Greyhounds are known for their calm and laid-back nature. They’re often called “45 mph couch potatoes” due to their love of relaxation. These dogs are gentle and quiet, making them excellent apartment pets.
• Despite their racing background, Greyhounds don’t need excessive exercise. Short walks and occasional sprints satisfy their activity needs. They’re independent but still enjoy affection from their owners.
• Greyhounds can be aloof with strangers and may need time to warm up to new people. They’re generally good with children but may not tolerate rough play. These dogs have a strong prey drive and might chase small animals.

Exercise and Training

Whippets and Greyhounds need different amounts of exercise and training. Both breeds benefit from positive reinforcement methods.

Exercise Needs

• Whippets have higher energy levels than Greyhounds. They need about 1 hour of exercise daily. This can include walks, runs, or play sessions.
• Whippets enjoy short bursts of activity. They like to sprint and chase toys in a fenced yard.
• Greyhounds need less exercise. A 30-minute walk each day is often enough. They are known as “40 mph couch potatoes” because they like to rest after short bursts of energy.
• Both breeds enjoy running off-leash in secure areas. Due to their strong prey drive, they should always be in fenced spaces when not on a leash.

Training Techniques

• Whippets and Greyhounds respond well to positive reinforcement. Treats and praise work best for training these sensitive breeds.
• Short training sessions are ideal. Both breeds can get bored easily. Keep lessons fun and interesting.
• Basic obedience training is important. Commands like sit, stay, and come should be taught early.
• Whippets may be easier to train than Greyhounds. They tend to be more eager to please their owners.
• Greyhounds might need extra patience during training. Many are retired racers and may not know basic commands.
• Socialization is key for both breeds. Early exposure to different people, animals, and environments helps create well-rounded dogs.

Health and Lifespan

Whippets and Greyhounds share some health concerns but differ in life expectancy. Both breeds can face specific issues that owners should be aware of to provide the best care.

Common Health Issues

• Whippets and Greyhounds are prone to bloat, a serious condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists. This requires immediate veterinary attention.
• Bone cancer is more common in Greyhounds than Whippets. Regular check-ups can help catch this early.
• Both breeds may face heart issues. Yearly exams are key to monitoring heart health.
• Whippets can be sensitive to anesthesia. It’s important to inform vets of this before any procedures.
• Greyhounds might develop arthritis as they age due to their racing background.

Lifespan Comparison

Whippets typically have a longer lifespan than Greyhounds. Whippets live about 12-15 years, while Greyhounds usually live 10-13 years.

Factors affecting lifespan include:

• Diet
• Exercise
• Genetics
• Quality of care

Regular vet visits are crucial for both breeds to catch health issues early. This can help extend their lives. Whippets often stay active longer into old age compared to Greyhounds. This can contribute to their slightly longer lifespan. Both breeds benefit from a healthy diet and regular exercise to maintain their health and potentially increase longevity.

Care and Grooming

Whippets and Greyhounds need different levels of care. Their grooming and diet needs vary based on their size and activity level.

Grooming Requirements

• Whippets and Greyhounds have short, smooth coats that are easy to care for. They shed little and only need weekly brushing. A soft brush or grooming mitt works well to remove loose hair.
• Both breeds need baths only when dirty. Use a gentle dog shampoo to clean them. Their nails grow fast and need regular trimming.
• Clean their teeth often to prevent dental issues. Brush their teeth 2-3 times a week or give them dental chews.

Nutrition and Diet

• Whippets need less food than Greyhounds due to their smaller size. Greyhounds typically eat 2-4 cups of food per day, while Whippets need 1-2 cups.
• Both breeds do well on high-quality dog food made for active dogs. Feed them twice a day to avoid bloat.
• Watch their weight, as both breeds can gain fat easily. Adjust food amounts based on their activity level and body condition.
• Give them treats in small amounts. Avoid human food, as it can upset their stomachs.

Breed-Specific Considerations

Whippets and Greyhounds have unique traits that affect their suitability for different living situations. Their size, energy levels, and temperaments play key roles in how well they adapt to apartments and family life.

Apartment Living Adaptability

• Whippets adapt well to apartment living. Their smaller size makes them a good fit for compact spaces. These dogs need less room to move around comfortably. Whippets are also quieter, which is a plus for close neighbors.
• Greyhounds can do fine in apartments too, but their larger size means they need more space. They’re known for being couch potatoes indoors. This calm nature helps them adjust to smaller homes.
• Both breeds need daily walks and playtime. A nearby park or open area is ideal for their exercise needs. Without proper outlets, they may become restless in small spaces.

Suitability for Families

• Whippets make great family pets. They’re gentle and patient with children. Their playful nature means they often enjoy kids’ company. Whippets bond closely with family members and like to be near them.
• Greyhounds also fit well into family life. They’re known for their sweet and mild temperament. These dogs are usually calm around kids. Their larger size means they’re less likely to be accidentally hurt by small children.
• Both breeds can be good with older kids who respect their space. They may not enjoy rough play. Supervision is key when dogs and young children interact. Training and socialization help these sighthounds become ideal family companions.

Dog Sports and Activities

Whippets and Greyhounds excel in various athletic pursuits. Their speed and agility make them naturals for racing and other dog sports. These activities provide mental and physical stimulation for these energetic sighthounds.

Racing Capabilities

• Greyhounds are renowned for their incredible speed, reaching up to 45 miles per hour in short sprints. Whippets are slightly slower but still impressively fast, topping out at 35 mph.
• Both breeds have a strong prey drive and excel in lure coursing. This sport simulates a hunt, with dogs chasing a mechanical lure around a field. It taps into their natural instincts and provides an excellent outlet for their energy.
• Professional racing is more common for Greyhounds. Many retired racing Greyhounds find homes as pets after their track careers end.

Agility and Competitions

Whippets often shine in agility trials, where dogs navigate obstacle courses. Their smaller size and nimble nature give them an edge in tight turns and quick direction changes.

Both breeds can participate in:

• Flyball
• Dock diving
• Obedience trials
• Rally

These activities challenge their minds and bodies. They also strengthen the bond between dog and owner. Greyhounds and Whippets may need extra motivation in training. Their independent nature can make them seem aloof at times. Positive reinforcement and fun, engaging sessions work best for these intelligent sighthounds.