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Whippet
Hound breed from England
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Whippet
The Whippet is a medium-sized sighthound from England, known for its sleek, athletic build and gentle temperament. It is described as gentle, affectionate, calm, intelligent, and playful, though individual behavior varies. With a short, smooth coat, it has low grooming needs (score 1) and moderate shedding (score 2). Its energy level is moderate (score 3), and it is moderately trainable (score 3). The Whippet is rated highly suitable for children (score 5), compatible with other dogs (score 5), and well-suited to apartment living (score 5). Estimated adult weight ranges from 11 to 18 kg for both sexes, height from 48 to 56 cm, and lifespan from 12 to 15 years. Recognition status varies by registry.
Quick facts
Whippet at a glance
Sizemedium
Breed groupHound
OriginEngland
Lifespan12–15 years
Male weight11–18 kilogram
Female weight11–18 kilogram
Male height48–56 centimetre
Female height48–56 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Whippet originated in England, with historical accounts suggesting development in Northern England during the 18th to 19th centuries. It is believed to have been created by working-class families crossing small Greyhounds with fast terriers, primarily for rabbit coursing and racing. The breed was sometimes called the 'poor man's racehorse' due to its use in informal racing events. Its exact timeline and specific crosses are not precisely documented, but the breed's roots in English working-class communities are well noted. The Whippet is classified in the Hound group and is recognized by major kennel clubs such as the AKC and The Kennel Club, though recognition status varies by registry.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
11–18 kilogramAdult weight48–56 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesShort, SmoothCoat colorsPendingRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Gentleaffectionatecalmintelligentplayful
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Moderate compared with other breeds
Moderate compared with other breeds
Lower coat-maintenance demand
Lower shedding tendency
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Whippet-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
- Can be a strong family match when socialized and supervised.Supported by childSuitability: 5
Potential challenges
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Growth chart
Whippet puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight11–18 kilogramAdult female weight11–18 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of a Whippet?
The Whippet is a medium-sized breed. Estimated adult weight for both males and females ranges from 11 to 18 kg, and height from 48 to 56 cm. Estimated lifespan is 12 to 15 years. These are modelled estimates and may vary.
What is the Whippet's temperament like?
Commonly described temperaments include gentle, affectionate, calm, intelligent, and playful. However, individual dogs may vary, and not every Whippet will display all these traits consistently.
How much exercise does a Whippet need?
The Whippet has a moderate energy level (score 3 out of 5). It enjoys bursts of speed and regular exercise, but specific daily requirements are not provided in the data.
What are the grooming needs of a Whippet?
Grooming needs are low (score 1) due to its short, smooth coat. Shedding is moderate (score 2). Regular brushing and occasional baths are typically sufficient.
Is a Whippet good for families with children or other dogs?
The breed scores high for child suitability (5 out of 5) and dog compatibility (5 out of 5), suggesting it generally gets along well with children and other dogs. However, individual temperaments vary, so supervision and proper introductions are always recommended.
Can a Whippet live in an apartment?
Yes, the Whippet is rated highly suitable for apartment living (score 5). Its calm indoor demeanor and moderate exercise needs make it adaptable to smaller spaces, provided it gets regular opportunities to run.
Where did the Whippet originate?
The Whippet originated in England, specifically Northern England, where it was developed by working-class families in the 18th–19th centuries for rabbit coursing and racing. It is a sighthound breed.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.