At a glance
Side by side.
| Trait | Greyhound | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Group | Hound Dogs | Hound Dogs |
| Size | Large | Medium |
| Height | 25 inch to 30 inches tall at the shoulder | 18 to 22 inches tall at the shoulder |
| Weight | 50 to 85 pounds | 18 to 48 pounds |
| Life span | 12 to 15 years | 12 to 15 years |
| Energy | ||
| Exercise needs | ||
| Easy to train | ||
| Intelligence | ||
| Good with children | ||
| Good with other dogs | ||
| Friendly with strangers | ||
| Shedding | ||
| Easy to groom | ||
| Barking | ||
| Apartment living | ||
| First-time owners | ||
| Copes alone | ||
| Drooling | ||
| General health |
Ratings are 1 to 5, from our breed database. Every pet is an individual.
Key differences
Where they differ most.
Drooling
The Greyhound drools more than the Whippet.
Shedding
The Greyhound sheds more than the Whippet.
Easy to train
The Greyhound is easier to train than the Whippet.
Intelligence
The Greyhound is quicker to learn than the Whippet.
Friendly with strangers
The Greyhound is friendlier with strangers than the Whippet.
Barking
The Greyhound barks more than the Whippet.
Which to choose
Greyhound or Whippet?
Choose the Greyhound if…
- You want a dog that is easier to train
- You want a dog that is quicker to learn
- You have lots of visitors (it is friendlier with strangers)
Choose the Whippet if…
- You want a dog that drools less
- You want a dog that sheds less
- You want a more watchful dog (it is more reserved with strangers)
- You want a dog that barks less
Questions.
Is the Greyhound or the Whippet bigger, and which lives longer?
The Greyhound is the bigger breed, about 16 kg heavier on average. Individual pets vary, so meet the parents or the pet where you can.
Which is easier to train, the Greyhound or the Whippet?
The Greyhound is generally easier to train than the Whippet. Short, positive, reward-based sessions work best for both.
Which is better for families, the Greyhound or the Whippet?
Both are usually good with children when well socialised. Always supervise young children with any pet.
Which sheds less?
The Whippet sheds less than the Greyhound. No breed is completely hair-free; regular brushing helps with both.
