WHound
Breed Guide

Hound

Whippet

“Small sprinter. Sweet snuggler.”

A medium-sized sprinter that combines racing speed with a calm, affectionate home life.

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Size

Medium

Weight

25–40 lb

Lifespan

12–15 years

Energy

Moderate

Grooming

Low

At a Glance

Quick Stats

Group

Hound

Size

Medium

Height (M/F)

19–22 in / 18–21 in

Weight (M/F)

25–40 lb / 20–35 lb

Lifespan

12–15 years

Exercise Needs

Moderate

EnergyModerate
TrainabilityIntermediate
GroomingLow
SheddingLow
ExperienceBeginner

The Breed

Overview

Bred by English miners for racing and rabbit coursing, the Whippet is a medium sight hound built for affordable speed. Its calm indoor nature and sprint ability make it a versatile companion.

Origin

England

Original Purpose

Rabbit coursing and racing

Temperament

Gentle, affectionate, quiet, sensitive

Best Known For

A medium-sized sprinter that combines racing speed with a calm, affectionate home life.

Character

Temperament

Whippets are typically gentle, affectionate, and quiet indoors. Like Greyhounds in miniature, they sprint hard and nap hard. They're sensitive and bond closely with their people.

Affection & Family

Typically gentle and devoted with the family.

Independence

Gentle, affectionate, quiet, sensitive

Social Behavior

Usually good with other dogs.

Protective Instincts

Gentle, affectionate, quiet, sensitive

With Children

Usually good with gentle children; sensitive to rough play.

With Other Dogs

Usually good with other dogs.

Movement

Energy & Exercise

Daily walks plus the chance to sprint in a safe, fenced area. Off-leash is unsafe due to prey drive.

Recommended Activities

RunningLong walksTrail walksFetchObedienceAgility

Partnership

Training

Gentle and sensitive; respond to soft, patient handling. Recall is unreliable — keep them leashed outside fenced areas.

Trainability

Intermediate

Experience Level

Beginner

Coat Care

Grooming

Short, thin coat, very low maintenance. They feel cold and need a coat in winter.

Grooming Needs

Low

Shedding

Low

Wellness

Health

Watch for eye conditions and sensitivity to anesthesia. This guide is for general educational purposes and is not a substitute for veterinary advice.

Every dog is an individual. This guide is general and educational — not a diagnosis or guarantee. Always consult a veterinarian for breed-specific or personal health concerns.

Heritage

History

Bred to course rabbits and race, the Whippet's speed still shines in lure coursing and amateur racing, while its gentle nature makes a calm companion.

Origin

England

Original Purpose

Rabbit coursing and racing

Lifestyle Fit

Best For

FAMILIES
FIRST-TIME OWNERS
CITY LIVING
RUNNERS
LOW GROOMING

Apartment Suitability

Good with daily walks and a safe sprint area.

Yard Requirements

A fenced sprint area is ideal.

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Breed Community

Whippet Community

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On WagLine

Popular Activities

Most popular with Whippets on WagLine.

01Running
02Long walks
03Trail walks
04Fetch
05Obedience
06Agility

Based on structured breed recommendations for now — these will reflect real WagLine activity as the community grows.

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The Directory

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