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Breed profile

Whippet

Hound · Medium · United Kingdom

  • Gentle
  • Affectionate
  • Quiet
  • Fast

A gentle, quiet sighthound that loves a sprint and then a long snooze. Whippets are affectionate housemates that need a safe space to run and often have a strong chase instinct.

Brindle Whippet standing in a show ring
Photo:Canarian (opens in a new tab)CC BY-SA 4.0 licence (opens in a new tab)

Recorded characteristics

What the reference data says

Ranges and ratings are useful comparison points, but they cannot predict every dog.

Physical profile

At a glance

Size
Medium
Height
44–51 cm
Weight
9–19 kg
Typical lifespan
12–15 years
Coat
Short
Shedding
Low

Everyday needs

Care & temperament

Energy level
Moderate
Daily exercise
60+ min
Trainability
Moderate
Good with children
Yes
Good with dogs
Yes
Good with cats
Varies

From profile to practical care

Getting a Whippet? Dog services in Austin

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Places that could suit a Whippet

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These shortcuts pre-set our search filters based on Whippet tendencies — a starting point for discovery, not a rule. Every dog is an individual, so use your own judgement about what suits yours.

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Source provenance

Where these facts come from

Reference information compiled from the sources listed here. Individual dogs vary — always meet a dog and speak to reputable breeders or rescues.