Hound Dogs
Whippet
Reviewed to our editorial standards · Updated 2026-06-12
Size
Medium
Life Span
12 to 15 years
Weight
18 to 48 pounds
Height
18 to 22 inches tall at the shoulder
Breed Group
Hound Dogs
Adaptability
Friendliness
Trainability
Energy
Health
Intelligence
Whippet — Key Facts
About the Whippet
The Whippet is a medium hound dog known for being deeply loving with its family and outgoing and sociable. With a highly intelligent mind, adaptable to most living situations, the Whippet is manageable for most owners. Typically standing 18 to 22 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing 18 to 48 pounds, this breed has a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years, making it a long-lived companion for the right family.
Originally classified within the Hound Dogs group, the Whippet brings a distinct combination of traits that sets it apart. The Whippet is a high-energy breed that thrives with plenty of daily exercise and mental stimulation. Deeply affectionate, the Whippet loves being close to its people and forms strong bonds with every member of the household.
Temperament
The Whippet has a famously warm and sociable temperament that makes it highly attuned to its family's emotions and moods. The Whippet is famously gentle and patient with children of all ages, making it a wonderful family dog. The Whippet tends to love the company of other dogs and typically does well in multi-pet households.
Friendly and open with new people, the Whippet rarely meets a stranger it doesn't like. This breed tends to be quiet and won't alert you to every passing noise. The Whippet has a strong urge to explore, so a well-fenced yard and reliable recall training are essential. A strong prey drive means the Whippet should be kept on a lead around wildlife and small pets.
Health & Lifespan
With a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years, the Whippet is a long-lived breed — a serious commitment. The Whippet is considered a robust, healthy breed with fewer inherited conditions than many pedigrees.
Common health areas to discuss with your vet include joint health (hip and elbow dysplasia), dental hygiene, eye health, and routine parasite prevention including flea, tick, and heartworm. Weight gain is not a major concern for most Whippets, though a balanced diet and regular exercise are always important. Annual wellness bloodwork — including a complete blood count and biochemistry panel — is recommended from middle age onward to catch conditions like hypothyroidism, kidney disease, and diabetes early. Pet insurance is strongly recommended from puppyhood.
Is this breed right for you?
The Whippet is a good fit for a wide range of owners who can provide an active lifestyle with plenty of outdoor time. Compact living spaces are no problem for this breed.
The Whippet handles alone time well and is less likely to develop separation anxiety. Cold climates suit this breed well. The Whippet tolerates heat well, though fresh water and shade should always be available.
In summary, the Whippet is a sociable and loving hound dogs that fits well into a variety of households. Do thorough research, meet the breed in person if possible, and connect with a reputable breeder or rescue before bringing a Whippet home.
Helpful Tools
Care Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Whippet good with kids?
The Whippet is known for being patient and gentle with children of all ages, making it a popular family choice.
How much exercise does a Whippet need?
The Whippet is a high-energy breed that needs at least 1–2 hours of vigorous exercise every day. Activities like fetch, hiking, and agility are ideal.
Does the Whippet shed a lot?
No — the Whippet is a minimal shedder, making it a popular option for households concerned about allergies or keeping the home clean.
Own a Whippet?
Track health records, set care reminders, and connect with other Whippet owners in Hushku.