The Whippet is a study in contradictions. For about twenty minutes a day, this dog is one of the fastest animals on the planet — a sleek, aerodynamic missile capable of hitting 56 km/h in a dead sprint. For the remaining twenty-three hours and forty minutes, it’s a 13-kilogram hot water bottle draped across your couch, burrowed under your duvet, or wedged into the smallest gap between you and the armrest.
Nicknamed the “Poor Man’s Racehorse” and sometimes described as the world’s fastest couch potato, the Whippet dog is a sighthound that combines genuine athletic ability with one of the calmest, gentlest indoor temperaments of any breed. They rarely bark. They’re affectionate without being demanding. They’re clean, low-maintenance, and small enough for apartment living. If there’s a “perfect compromise” dog, the Whippet is a serious contender.
But they’re not for everyone. This guide covers the Whippet’s temperament, health concerns, exercise needs, realistic Australian ownership costs, and why you’ll need to accept that your bed is no longer entirely yours.
What You’ll Learn
- Breed traits & temperament
- Health concerns to know
- True cost in Australia
- Training & exercise needs
- Is this breed right for you?
Quick Facts at a Glance
| Trait | Details |
|---|---|
| Breed Group | Hound / Sighthound (ANKC Group 4) |
| Origin | Northern England — 18th century |
| Size | Medium: Males 47–56 cm (18.5–22 in), Females 44–53 cm (17.5–21 in) |
| Weight | 9–18 kg (20–40 lbs); lean build is normal |
| Coat | Short, smooth, fine, single coat |
| Colour | Any colour or combination — huge variety (blue, brindle, fawn, black, white, cream, red, and more) |
| Lifespan | 12–15 years |
| Temperament | Gentle, calm indoors, affectionate, sensitive, fast, quiet |
| Exercise Needs | 30–60 minutes daily (including off-leash sprinting) |
| Shedding | Low–Moderate; seasonal shedding in spring |
| Good With Kids | Excellent — gentle and patient |
| Apartment Friendly | Yes — one of the best medium breeds for apartments |
| Hypoallergenic | No — low shedding but not hypoallergenic |
History & Origins:
The Whippet’s story begins in 18th-century Northern England, where working-class miners and mill workers crossed Greyhounds with smaller terriers to create a fast, compact dog for hunting rabbits. These dogs were the tools of poachers and the entertainment of factory workers, racing down straight tracks chasing a rag — earning the nickname “the Poor Man’s Racehorse.”
The breed’s name likely derives from the now-obsolete word “whappet,” meaning a small dog that yelps. But there was nothing small about the Whippet’s impact: these dogs were family, sleeping in beds with children and receiving rations alongside the household. As the breed gained attention from wealthier fanciers, selective breeding refined the Whippet into the elegant sighthound we recognise today — likely with Italian Greyhound influence adding grace and refinement.
The Whippet arrived in the United States by the early 1900s and was recognised by the AKC in 1888. In the UK, the breed became one of the most popular dogs by the 2000s. In Australia, Whippets have a strong following among lure-coursing enthusiasts, show exhibitors, and families who simply love their gentle nature. Australian Whippet clubs operate across multiple states, and the breed regularly features at major shows.
Temperament & Personality
The Whippet dog temperament is what makes this breed so special. Outdoors, they’re focused, fast, and driven by an intense prey instinct. Indoors, they transform into the calmest, quietest, most affectionate companion you could wish for.
Whippets don’t just like furniture — they believe they have an inalienable right to it. They will claim your couch, your bed, and your favourite armchair. They burrow under blankets, curl into impossibly small balls, and radiate heat like furry space heaters. If you’re the type of owner who doesn’t allow dogs on furniture, choose a different breed. Whippets simply cannot be convinced that the floor is acceptable.
Whippets rarely bark, making them excellent apartment dogs. They’re gentle with everyone and hopeless as guard dogs — a burglar would be more likely to receive a wagging tail than a warning. They’re non-aggressive by nature and avoid confrontation.
This is a sensitive, sometimes anxious breed. Whippets don’t respond well to raised voices, harsh corrections, or chaotic environments. They can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods, and some experience noise sensitivity. Calm, consistent handling brings out the best in them.
Whippets are excellent family dogs. They’re gentle, patient, and their medium size means they’re neither too fragile for active play nor large enough to accidentally knock children over. They’re naturally drawn to children and will happily spend hours being petted.
Whippets generally get along well with other dogs, especially other sighthounds. However, their prey drive is strong and hardwired. Small animals — cats, rabbits, guinea pigs — can trigger chase instincts. Some Whippets coexist with cats they’ve been raised with, but introductions must be extremely careful. Off-leash, a Whippet that spots a small animal will pursue it at 56 km/h, and no amount of recall training will override that instinct.
Not exactly. They’re energy-efficient. Whippets expend enormous energy in short, intense bursts, then conserve it for the rest of the day. Think sprinter, not marathon runner. They need daily exercise but are genuinely content to sleep 18+ hours a day between runs.
Health & Genetic Conditions:
The Whippet dog is one of the healthiest purebred breeds. Their working heritage, moderate size, and natural body proportions mean they’re free of many of the structural health problems that plague other breeds. Most Whippets die of old age, which is a strong indicator of overall breed health. That said, there are some conditions to be aware of.
Prevalence: Cardiac disease is the most actively studied health concern in Whippets, with the breed confirmed as overrepresented for mitral valve degeneration compared to the general dog population. A 2015 genome-wide association study of 138 Whippets identified specific chromosome 15 loci associated with disease severity, strongly pointing to an inherited component. The American Whippet Club’s longitudinal cardiac study has been running since 2005. While many Whippets develop MVD only in old age, some show echocardiographic changes at a relatively young age, and the condition is a leading cause of death in geriatric dogs of this breed.
Symptoms: Early stages are often silent, with a heart murmur detected only by a vet during routine auscultation. As the disease progresses, coughing (especially at night or after exercise), reduced exercise tolerance, laboured breathing, and fluid accumulation in the lungs develop. Some athletic Whippets have innocent functional murmurs that can obscure early pathological murmurs — echocardiography is more reliable than listening alone.
Treatment Cost (AUD): Annual cardiac auscultation costs $80–$150 per visit. Echocardiography for definitive assessment runs $400–$800. Once heart failure develops, pimobendan, ACE inhibitors, and diuretics cost $150–$400/month ongoing, with periodic recheck echos adding to annual costs.
Prevention: Annual cardiac auscultation by a veterinarian from middle age onwards is the AWC minimum recommendation. Echocardiography by a board-certified cardiologist every 1–2 years is preferred for breeding stock. No DNA test is yet available — ask breeders about cardiac history across pedigree lines, particularly in dogs aged 8 and over.
Prevalence: PRA is documented in Whippets and the American Whippet Club recommends annual eye exams by a board-certified ophthalmologist for all breeding stock. While genetic eye disease causing blindness in younger dogs is considered uncommon in the breed compared to many others, it is present in certain lines and warrants active screening.
Symptoms: The first sign is typically difficulty seeing in low light or darkness — a dog hesitating at doorways after dark, bumping into objects at dusk, or showing reluctance to go outside at night. Pupils appear more dilated than normal. Vision loss progresses slowly over months to years, eventually affecting daytime sight. The condition is painless but irreversible.
Treatment Cost (AUD): There is no cure or treatment to halt progression. Annual CAER eye exams cost $80–$150 per visit. Affected dogs can adapt remarkably well to vision loss with a consistent home environment. Antioxidant supplements are sometimes used, though evidence for slowing PRA specifically is limited.
Prevention: A DNA test for prcd-PRA is available through UC Davis VGL, Embark, and Orivet. Annual CAER eye certification is a CHIC requirement for the breed. Only purchase puppies from parents with current CAER clearances, and confirm breeders have tested for prcd-PRA.
Prevalence: The MDR1 (ABCB1) gene mutation — most commonly associated with herding breeds — has been detected in Whippets and is flagged by DogWellNet as the most clinically important genetic test for the breed. Dogs with this mutation cannot properly clear certain drugs from the brain, leading to severe and potentially fatal neurological toxicity from medications that are otherwise safe and routine.
Symptoms: Reactions occur only when an affected dog is exposed to a trigger drug (including ivermectin-based parasite treatments, loperamide for diarrhoea, and some chemotherapy agents). Signs of toxicity include tremors, seizures, unsteady gait, excessive drooling, dilated pupils, slow heart rate, disorientation, and in severe cases, coma or respiratory arrest.
Treatment Cost (AUD): The DNA test itself costs $60–$100 and is a one-time, lifelong result. A toxicity episode requires emergency hospitalisation, which typically costs $2,000–$6,000 depending on severity and duration of supportive care required.
Prevention: DNA testing is strongly recommended for all Whippets and is especially important before using any ivermectin-containing heartworm or parasite product. Always inform your vet of MDR1 status before any procedure or prescription. The test is available through UC Davis VGL, Embark, and Orivet, and results should be kept on file with your vet.
Prevalence: Congenital deafness occurs in Whippets and the American Whippet Club recommends BAER testing for all breeding stock. A small percentage of Whippets have unilateral hearing — functioning in one ear only — which cannot be detected without BAER testing and does not affect the dog as a pet, but must be excluded from breeding to prevent progression through the gene pool.
Symptoms: Bilateral deafness in puppies may appear as unresponsiveness to sound, failing to wake to noise, or startling easily when touched unexpectedly. Unilaterally deaf dogs often appear completely normal in everyday life and cannot be identified without testing.
Treatment Cost (AUD): The BAER test is a one-time cost of $150–$300 and is non-invasive. There is no treatment for congenital deafness itself. Deaf dogs can live full, happy lives with hand signal training and management that keeps them safely away from traffic.
Prevention: BAER testing is required for all Whippet breeding stock under the AWC health programme. Do not breed unilaterally or bilaterally deaf dogs. When purchasing a puppy, confirm both parents have passed BAER testing — reputable breeders will have documentation readily available.
Prevalence: SLO is an immune-mediated nail disorder documented in Whippets and listed by breed health organisations as a notable condition in the breed. It causes progressive loss and deformity of the claws starting typically in middle-aged dogs. The exact cause is unknown but immune system dysfunction is strongly implicated.
Symptoms: One or more claws begin to split, crumble, soften, or detach at the base — often starting with a single nail before spreading to multiple claws over weeks to months. Affected nails may be painful to touch, causing the dog to limp or lick at their feet. Secondary bacterial infections in exposed nail beds are common.
Treatment Cost (AUD): Diagnosis may require nail biopsy ($300–$600). Treatment typically involves a combination of fatty acid supplementation (omega-3), vitamin E, biotin, and sometimes immunosuppressive doses of tetracycline/niacinamide running $50–$150/month. Many dogs require lifelong management to prevent relapse.
Prevention: No DNA test is available. Keep nails trimmed regularly to reduce mechanical stress on affected digits. If a Whippet begins losing or splitting nails without obvious trauma, seek veterinary assessment promptly rather than assuming it is a minor grooming issue — early treatment tends to give better long-term outcomes.
The single greatest threat to a Whippet’s life isn’t disease — it’s their own speed. Whippets running at full pace can collide with obstacles, cut themselves on fences, or chase into traffic. Their thin skin tears easily, and even minor scrapes from running through scrub can require veterinary attention. Always check your Whippet for cuts and abrasions after vigorous exercise.
Whippets (and all sighthounds) process anaesthesia differently from other breeds due to their low body fat and unique metabolism. Always ensure your vet is aware your dog is a sighthound before any procedure requiring sedation. Experienced sighthound vets adjust protocols accordingly.
Lifespan & Longevity
The Whippet dog lifespan is 12 to 15 years, which is excellent for a medium-sized breed. Many Whippets live well into their teens with good care. The breed’s natural body proportions, moderate size, and overall genetic health contribute to their longevity.
Puppy stage (0–2 years): Feed a quality puppy food appropriate for medium breeds. Avoid over-exercising growing joints — short sprints on soft ground are fine, but no forced distance running. Socialise extensively, particularly with different environments and sounds, as Whippet puppies can be sensitive. Begin lead training early.
Adult stage (2–10 years): Prime years. Maintain daily exercise with opportunities to sprint. Feed a balanced diet and monitor weight carefully — you should always be able to see the last two or three ribs on a healthy Whippet (this is normal, not underweight). Annual vet check-ups with cardiac auscultation.
Senior stage (10+ years): Increase vet visits to twice yearly. Monitor for heart murmur changes, thyroid issues, arthritis, and vision changes. Joint supplements and a senior diet can help maintain comfort. Many senior Whippets still enjoy short sprints and remain remarkably active, but let them set the pace.
Grooming & Care
If low-maintenance grooming is a priority, the Whippet is your breed. Their short, fine, smooth coat requires minimal intervention — this is not a dog that needs professional grooming appointments.
Grooming Schedule
| Task | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Brushing | Weekly (soft bristle brush or rubber mitt) | Removes loose hair, stimulates skin. Increase to 2–3x/week during spring shedding. |
| Bathing | Every 6–8 weeks or as needed | Whippets are naturally clean with minimal doggy odour. Use gentle, dog-specific shampoo. |
| Ear Cleaning | Fortnightly | Rose-shaped ears are less prone to infection than floppy ears, but still check. |
| Nail Trimming | Every 2–3 weeks | Active dogs may wear nails down on hard surfaces. |
| Dental Care | Daily brushing ideal; minimum 3x/week | Small breeds benefit from consistent dental care. |
| Skin Checks | After every vigorous exercise session | Thin skin tears easily. Check for cuts, scrapes, and abrasions. |
Do Whippet dogs shed? Yes, but minimally. Their short, single coat sheds lightly year-round with a slightly heavier moult in spring. Compared to double-coated breeds, shedding is negligible. A weekly brush keeps it under control. They’re not hypoallergenic, but they’re about as close to low-shedding as a non-curly-coated breed gets.
Whippet dog clothes — not just a fashion statement. Whippets have virtually no body fat and a thin single coat. In Australian winters, even in Melbourne or Sydney, they feel the cold. A quality dog jumper or jacket isn’t optional — it’s a welfare essential. Many Whippet owners also use pyjamas or fleece coats indoors during cold snaps. In summer, their thin coat and lack of insulation means they can overheat quickly — avoid midday exercise in hot weather and provide shade.
Exercise Needs
Whippet exercise needs are surprisingly modest for a dog capable of such speed. Plan for 30 to 60 minutes of daily activity, ideally including at least one opportunity to run at full speed in a safe, enclosed area.
The key is quality, not quantity. A Whippet doesn’t need two hours of hiking. It needs a 10-minute sprint at top speed, followed by a relaxed walk, followed by a long nap on your couch. Lure-coursing (chasing a mechanical lure) is the ideal Whippet activity and satisfies their prey drive in a controlled, safe environment. Many Australian clubs offer lure-coursing events.
⚠️ Australian climate warning:
Whippets are vulnerable to both heat and cold. In summer, exercise only in the early morning or late evening. Provide shade and water at all times — their lack of body fat means they overheat faster than you’d expect. In winter, even in mild climates, they need a coat or jumper for outdoor exercise. Never leave a Whippet outside in cold or wet weather without shelter and warmth.
Off-leash safety.
Whippets have an extremely high prey drive and can reach full speed in seconds. Off-leash exercise should only happen in fully enclosed, secure areas. An unsecured Whippet that spots a cat, rabbit, or even a plastic bag blowing in the wind will pursue it at speed, and no recall command will override that instinct. Fencing needs to be at least 1.5 metres high — these dogs can jump.
Are Whippets good apartment dogs?
Yes — surprisingly so. Their calm indoor temperament, low barking, moderate size, and minimal shedding make them one of the best medium-sized breeds for apartment living. The caveat is that they still need daily off-leash running time, so proximity to a dog park or enclosed space is essential.
Training Guide
Whippet dog training requires a light touch. These are sensitive, intelligent dogs that shut down completely if they feel pressured, shouted at, or confused. Positive reinforcement with food and play rewards is the only approach that works.
Socialisation & Training Timeline
| Age | Training Focus | Honest Difficulty Level |
|---|---|---|
| 8–16 weeks | Socialisation (sounds, environments, people), crate training, basic name response | Easy — eager to bond but may be timid |
| 4–6 months | Sit, stay, come, leash manners, desensitisation to triggers | Easy–Moderate — willing but distractible by movement |
| 6–12 months | Recall (in enclosed areas only), impulse control around small animals, settling cues | Moderate — prey drive emerges strongly |
| 1–2 years | Proofing commands, dog sport foundations, separation tolerance | Moderate — maturing nicely with consistent work |
| 2+ years | Maintenance, lure coursing, agility, trick training | Enjoyable — adult Whippets are calm, cooperative partners |
Recall will never be 100% reliable around prey.
Accept this. A Whippet in chase mode is deaf to the world. Train recall in enclosed spaces, use a long line in open areas, and never trust off-leash recall near roads, wildlife, or small animals. This isn’t a training failure — it’s breed-specific instinct that predates any training you can do.
Crate training and separation.
Some Whippets develop crate claustrophobia or separation anxiety. If crate training, use a large, open wire crate (never a small enclosed carrier) and build positive associations gradually. For separation anxiety, desensitisation protocols and ensuring they’re not left alone for excessive periods are key.
Cost of Ownership in Australia
| Expense | Estimated AUD Cost |
|---|---|
| Registered Whippet puppy (breeder) | $2,000–$4,000 |
| Rescue / Adoption fee | $300–$600 |
| Initial setup (crate, bed, bowls, leads, coats, toys) | $500–$900 |
| Annual food (premium medium-breed diet) | $800–$1,400 |
| Annual vet check-ups & vaccinations | $350–$600 |
| Pet insurance (comprehensive) | $40–$90/month |
| Desexing | $300–$600 |
| Grooming (DIY-friendly; minimal professional needed) | $0–$200/year |
| Coats, jumpers & clothing (essential, not optional) | $100–$300 |
| Sighthound-specific collar & harness | $50–$150 |
| Training (puppy school + follow-up) | $300–$600 |
| Emergency vet fund (recommended reserve) | $2,000–$4,000 |
Total first-year cost estimate: $5,500–$9,000+ (including purchase price). Ongoing annual costs: $2,000–$3,500. Whippets are among the more affordable purebreds to maintain, with grooming being virtually free and health issues relatively uncommon.
Where to find Whippet dogs for sale in Australia:
Start with Dogs Australia registered breeders. Australian Whippet clubs operate in most states and can direct you to reputable breeders who health-test their stock (cardiac evaluation, eye examination, and ideally DNA testing for PRA and deafness). Expect to join a waiting list for well-bred puppies.
Rescue option:
Whippet rescue organisations operate in Australia and are an excellent option. Retired racing Whippets and owner-surrendered dogs are sometimes available. Adult Whippets are often already house-trained, have established temperaments, and transition beautifully into new homes.
Is a Whippet Right for You?
want a calm, quiet indoor companion that’s also athletic outdoors; live in an apartment or house with access to an enclosed running area; want a low-maintenance, low-grooming breed; have children and want a gentle, patient family dog; appreciate a sensitive, affectionate dog that wants to be close to you; and are happy sharing your furniture and bed.
don’t allow dogs on furniture (non-negotiable for this breed); have cats or small pets and no safe separation plan; need a reliable off-leash dog in unfenced areas; want a guard dog or protection dog; leave your dog alone for long hours without company; or live in a very cold climate without willingness to invest in dog clothing.
The most common comparison. Greyhounds are significantly larger (27–30 inches, 25–40 kg vs 18–22 inches, 9–18 kg for Whippets). Both are sighthounds with similar temperaments — calm, gentle, couch-loving. Whippets are more manageable for smaller homes and apartments. Greyhounds have a larger rescue pool (retired racers). If you love the sighthound temperament but want a smaller package, the Whippet is your dog.
Italian Greyhounds are much smaller (3–6 kg vs 9–18 kg), more fragile, and more prone to broken bones. Whippets are sturdier, calmer, and better suited to families with children. If you want a toy-sized sighthound, the Italian Greyhound is an option, but Whippets are the more robust choice.
The Whippet is one of the best-kept secrets in the dog world. For owners who want an athletic, affectionate, low-maintenance companion that’s equally happy sprinting across a field and sleeping under your duvet, there are very few breeds that compare.
Three things to remember: (1) Off-leash only in enclosed areas — their prey drive at 56 km/h is non-negotiable. (2) They need warmth — coats, jumpers, and blankets are essential, not accessories. (3) Your furniture is their furniture. Accept it, invest in a good throw, and enjoy sharing your couch with one of the most gentle, elegant dogs in existence.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Whippet cost in Australia?
A registered Whippet puppy from a reputable breeder typically costs between $2,000 and $4,000 AUD. The total first-year cost of ownership, including purchase, setup, food, vet care, and insurance, can range from $5,500 to $9,000+. Ongoing annual costs are around $2,000–$3,500.
Are Whippets good family dogs?
Yes, Whippets are excellent family dogs. They are gentle, patient, and their medium size makes them sturdy enough for play but not so large as to accidentally knock over children. They are naturally affectionate and quiet, making them wonderful indoor companions.
Do Whippet dogs shed?
Yes, but minimally. Their short, single coat sheds lightly year-round with a slightly heavier moult in spring. A weekly brush is usually sufficient to manage shedding. They are not considered hypoallergenic.
What is the difference between a Greyhound and a Whippet?
Greyhounds are significantly larger (25–40 kg, 27–30 inches tall) while Whippets are medium-sized (9–18 kg, 18–22 inches). Both share the calm, gentle sighthound temperament. Whippets are often better suited to apartments and smaller homes due to their size.
How long do Whippet dogs live?
The Whippet lifespan is 12 to 15 years, which is excellent for a medium-sized breed. Many live well into their teens with proper care.
Are Whippets good apartment dogs?
Yes, they are one of the best medium-sized breeds for apartment living. They are calm and quiet indoors, bark rarely, and have minimal shedding. The key requirement is daily access to a secure, enclosed area for off-leash sprinting.
Are Whippets dangerous dogs?
No. Whippets are gentle, non-aggressive, and avoid confrontation. They are hopeless guard dogs and are known for their affectionate, sensitive nature. Their main ‘danger’ is their high prey drive towards small animals, not aggression towards people.
What is a Bully Whippet?
A ‘Bully Whippet’ refers to a Whippet with a specific genetic mutation (myostatin deficiency) that causes extreme muscular hypertrophy, giving them a bulky, heavily muscled appearance. They are healthy but are a distinct type within the breed.
What colours do Whippets come in?
Whippets come in a huge variety of colours and combinations, including blue, brindle, fawn, black, white, cream, red, and particolour (white with patches of another colour). Almost any colour is acceptable in the breed standard.
Do Whippets need coats in winter?
Yes, absolutely. Whippets have very little body fat and a thin single coat, making them highly susceptible to cold. A quality dog jumper or coat is essential for winter walks in Australia, even in milder climates like Sydney or Melbourne.
1. PetMD — Whippet Dog Breed Health and Care: https://www.petmd.com/dog/breeds/whippet
2. American Kennel Club — Whippet Breed Information: https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/whippet/
3. Hill’s Pet — Whippet Dog Breed Guide: https://www.hillspet.com/dog-care/dog-breeds/whippet
4. WebMD Pets — What to Know About Whippets: https://www.webmd.com/pets/dogs/what-to-know-about-whippets
5. ASPCA Pet Insurance — Living With a Whippet: https://www.aspcapetinsurance.com/resources/whippets/
6. Pets Best — Whippet Dog Breed Guide: https://www.petsbest.com/blog/dog-breed-guide-whippet
7. Pure Pet Food — Whippet Breed Guide: https://www.purepetfood.com/breeds/whippet
8. Pooch & Mutt — Whippet Breed Guide: https://www.poochandmutt.co.uk/blogs/by-breed/whippet
9. American Whippet Club: https://www.americanwhippetclub.net/
10. Sundays for Dogs — Whippet Dog Breed Guide: https://sundaysfordogs.com/blog/what-you-should-know-about-the-whippet-dog-breed