Whippet vs Italian Greyhound: Key Differences Between Sighthounds

Lazar Jovanovic Lazar Jovanovic · Updated January 19, 2025

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Two sleek Sighthounds, one tan and one gray, stand alert in a grassy area with tall trees in the background.

Whippets and Italian Greyhounds are both sighthound breeds with elegant appearances. While they look similar, their origins differ. Let’s explore the differences and similarities between these two breeds.

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Physical Characteristics and Appearance

Whippets and Italian Greyhounds share a sleek, graceful build. Their bodies are slim with deep chests and long legs. But key differences set them apart in size and coat details.

Size and Build

  • A Whippet stands 18-22 inches tall and weighs 25-40 pounds. Italian Greyhounds are smaller, reaching 13-15 inches in height and weighing just 7-14 pounds.
  • Both breeds have lean, muscular bodies. Their chests are deep and their waists are narrow. You’ll notice their long, thin legs and graceful necks.
  • Whippets have more muscle mass, making them look more athletic. Italian Greyhounds are more delicate with finer bones.

Coat and Coloring

Both breeds have short, smooth coats. Their fur is soft and lies close to the body. Neither breed needs much grooming.

Whippets and Italian Greyhounds come in many colors:

  • Solid colors (black, white, fawn, red)
  • Brindle patterns
  • Parti-colors (white with patches)

Italian Greyhounds often have white markings on their chest and feet. Whippets may have these too, but less often. Both breeds can have blue, fawn, or dark eyes. Their noses match their coat color.

Two sleek Italian Greyhounds, known for their sighthound grace, stand on the grass. One is a warm brown, and the other is a striking gray and white against a blurred natural backdrop.

Temperament and Personality

Whippets and Italian Greyhounds have distinct personalities that set them apart. These gentle breeds share some traits but differ in key aspects of their behavior and social needs.

Behavioral Traits

  • Whippets are known for their gentle and friendly nature. They tend to be calm and reserved at home. You’ll find them content lounging on the couch for hours.
  • Italian Greyhounds, or “Iggies,” are more energetic and playful. They often seek attention and may follow you around the house. Both breeds are intelligent and can learn tricks quickly.
  • Whippets have short bursts of energy. They enjoy a good run but are happy to relax afterward. Iggies need more frequent play sessions to stay happy.

Socialization and Companionship

  • Both breeds thrive on human companionship. Whippets are less needy than Italian Greyhounds. They’re content with moderate attention and can handle being alone for longer periods.
  • Italian Greyhounds are more dependent on their owners. They may develop separation anxiety if left alone too often. Iggies crave constant interaction and physical touch.
  • Whippets are usually good with children and other pets. Italian Greyhounds can be more timid around strangers and may need extra socialization. Both breeds benefit from early exposure to different people and animals.

Health and Lifespan

Whippets and Italian Greyhounds have some distinct health concerns and care needs. Both breeds can live long, healthy lives with proper care and attention to potential issues.

Common Health Issues

  • Whippets may face heart problems like mitral valve disease. They can also develop eye issues such as cataracts. Hip dysplasia is another concern for these athletic dogs.
  • Italian Greyhounds are prone to dental problems due to their small mouths. They may also experience leg fractures because of their delicate bone structure. Both breeds can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.
  • Bloat is a serious risk for Whippets, while Italian Greyhounds may be more susceptible to autoimmune diseases. Eye problems can affect both breeds as they age.

Preventative Care

  • Regular vet check-ups are crucial for both breeds. You should keep up with vaccinations and maintain an active lifestyle to support their health.
  • Dental care is especially important for Italian Greyhounds. Brush their teeth regularly and provide dental chews. For Whippets, monitor their diet and exercise to prevent bloat.
  • Both breeds benefit from a balanced diet and regular exercise. Keep an eye on their weight, as obesity can lead to health issues. Provide mental stimulation to prevent anxiety-related problems.
  • Consider pet insurance to help manage potential health costs. With proper care, Whippets can live 12-14 years, while Italian Greyhounds often reach 13-15 years of age.

Two Italian Greyhounds, known for their sighthound lineage, stand gracefully on a paved surface. One is brown and the other black, both adorned with white markings and alert expressions that capture their elegance.

Exercise and Activity Levels

Whippets and Italian Greyhounds have unique exercise needs. They need both physical activity and mental challenges to stay happy and healthy.

Physical Exercise Needs

Whippets need more exercise than Italian Greyhounds. You should give your Whippet 20-30 minutes of daily walks plus play time. They love to run and sprint. A fenced yard is great for them to zoom around safely.

Italian Greyhounds need less exercise. Short walks and indoor play can be enough. Both breeds enjoy:

  • Fetch
  • Lure coursing
  • Dog sports

Be careful with their thin skin and delicate legs during rough play. Their prey drive is strong, so keep them on a leash in open areas.

Mental Stimulation Requirements

Both breeds need mental challenges to avoid boredom. You can try:

  • Puzzle toys
  • Training sessions
  • Interactive games

These activities help prevent anxiety and destructive behaviors. Italian Greyhounds may need more attention and interaction than Whippets. Mix up their routine with new toys and games. This keeps their clever minds busy. Short training sessions work well for both breeds. They learn quickly but can get bored with repetition.

Training and Intelligence

Whippets and Italian Greyhounds are smart dogs that can learn quickly. They have some differences in how they train and behave. Let’s look at what makes each breed unique when it comes to training and smarts.

Trainability and Learning

  • Both breeds pick up new things fast, but Italian Greyhounds may need a gentler touch. You’ll find Italian Greyhounds are sensitive and can get scared easily. Use soft voices and lots of treats to help them learn.
  • Whippets are a bit tougher but still need kind training. They like to please you and will work hard to learn new tricks. Both breeds do well with short, fun training sessions. Keep things upbeat and your dog will be more eager to learn.
  • Try using games to teach your dog new skills. This works great for both breeds. Remember, patience is key when training these smart pups.

Obedience and Discipline

  • When it comes to following rules, Whippets and Italian Greyhounds can be a bit stubborn. You’ll need to be firm but kind. Whippets may be easier to train for obedience because they’re less easily distracted.
  • Italian Greyhounds might get sidetracked by small noises or movements. They need extra focus during training. Both breeds respond well to positive reinforcement. Use treats and praise to reward good behavior.
  • Consistency is crucial for both breeds. Set clear rules and stick to them. This helps your dog understand what you expect. With time and effort, both Whippets and Italian Greyhounds can become well-behaved companions.

Two Greyhounds, part of the majestic sighthounds family, are running together on a grassy field with a blurred background of wheat.

Grooming and Maintenance

Whippets and Italian Greyhounds have similar grooming needs due to their short coats. Both breeds are relatively low-maintenance, but regular care is still important for their health and appearance.

Daily Grooming Needs

You’ll find grooming Whippets and Italian Greyhounds quite easy. Brush their coats once or twice a week with a soft-bristled brush or rubber mitt. This removes loose hair and keeps their coat shiny. Bathe them only when necessary, usually every few months or if they get dirty. Check their ears weekly for dirt or signs of infection. Trim their nails regularly, about every 2-3 weeks. Brush their teeth several times a week to prevent dental issues.

Long-Term Maintenance

  • For long-term care, pay attention to your dog’s skin. Both breeds have thin skin that can be prone to cuts or scrapes. Check for any injuries after outdoor activities.
  • Italian Greyhounds may need extra warmth in cold weather due to their small size and low body fat. Consider a doggy sweater or coat for chilly days.
  • If you plan to show your dog, more frequent grooming may be needed. This includes regular baths, nail trims, and coat conditioning to keep them looking their best for the ring.

Three elegant sighthounds gracefully pose on a surface, set against a blue background with blurred lights. The Italian Greyhounds exude charm and agility, capturing the essence of their breed's refined nature.

Living Environment

Whippets and Italian Greyhounds have different needs when it comes to living spaces. Their energy levels and social requirements affect how well they adapt to various home settings.

Apartment Vs. House

  • Whippets can adapt to apartment living if given enough exercise. You’ll need to take them for daily walks and runs. Italian Greyhounds are better suited for apartments due to their smaller size.
  • Both breeds enjoy lounging on soft surfaces. You should provide cozy spots for them to relax.
  • In houses, Whippets benefit from having a fenced yard to run in. Italian Greyhounds also enjoy outdoor time but need less space.
  • Remember that both breeds are sensitive to cold. You’ll need to keep your home warm and provide them with sweaters for chilly weather.

Suitability for Families

  • Whippets are generally good with children and make excellent family pets. They have a gentle nature and enjoy playing. You’ll find they’re active and sporty, perfect for families who like outdoor activities.
  • Italian Greyhounds can be more delicate and may not be ideal for families with very young children. They prefer a quieter environment.
  • Both breeds need socialization from an early age. This helps them become well-adjusted family members.
  • You’ll find that both Whippets and Italian Greyhounds are affectionate and bond closely with their families. They enjoy being around people and don’t do well when left alone for long periods.