If someone at the dog park points at your sighthound and says “cute Greyhound puppy!” you’re in good company. Italian Greyhounds and Whippets both look like Greyhounds that got zapped with a shrink ray, and most people can’t tell them apart without a side-by-side comparison. The truth is they’re separate breeds with genuinely different lifestyles. The Italian Greyhound (the “Iggy”) is a delicate toy breed that weighs about as much as a large house cat. The Whippet is a proper medium-sized hound that’s hardier, faster, and far less likely to shatter a leg jumping off the couch. Both will steal your spot on the sofa the moment you stand up. Here’s what actually matters when choosing between them.
The biggest difference between an Italian Greyhound and a Whippet is size and fragility. Italian Greyhounds stand just 33–38 cm tall and weigh 3.5–6.5 kg — they’re a Toy breed. Whippets stand 44–56 cm tall and weigh 11–18 kg — they’re a medium-sized Hound breed. Both are affectionate, quiet sighthounds that love sprinting and sleeping in equal measure. Italian Greyhounds are more fragile (prone to broken legs), more suited to apartments, and more expensive in Australia ($2,000–$5,000 AUD). Whippets are hardier, calmer, better with young kids, and more affordable ($1,800–$3,500 AUD). Both live 12–15 years and need secure fencing due to their prey drive.
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 Comparison at a Glance
| Trait | Italian Greyhound (Iggy) | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Italy (Renaissance era) | Northern England (1800s) |
| Size (Height) | 33–38 cm | 44–56 cm |
| Weight | 3.5–6.5 kg | 11–18 kg |
| Lifespan | 12–15 years | 12–15 years |
| Coat Type | Short, fine, single coat | Short, smooth, single coat |
| Shedding Level | Very Low | Very Low |
| Energy Level | Moderate–High (bursts) | Moderate–High (bursts) |
| Trainability | Moderate (independent, sensitive) | Moderate (willing but stubborn) |
| Barking Level | Low | Low |
| Good With Kids | Older children only (fragile) | Yes — gentle with all ages |
| Good With Other Dogs | Yes — especially other sighthounds | Yes — especially other sighthounds |
| Apartment Friendly | Excellent — ideal apartment dog | Good — adapts well with daily exercise |
| Puppy Price (AUD) | $2,000 – $5,000 | $1,800 – $3,500 |
| ANKC Group | Group 1 (Toys) | Group 4 (Hounds) |
| Australian Popularity | Niche but growing — strong show community | Popular — well-established in racing, lure coursing and as pets |
Where Did they Come From?
The Italian Greyhound is an ancient breed with roots stretching back over 2,000 years. Small Greyhound-type dogs appear in Egyptian, Greek, and Roman art, but the breed as we know it was refined during the Italian Renaissance, where it became a status symbol among European aristocracy. Whether it was originally a hunting dog or purely a companion is debated, but centuries of selective breeding for elegance and companionship have produced today’s dainty toy sighthound. The AKC recognised the breed in 1886.
The Whippet is a much younger breed, developed in Northern England during the 1800s. Working-class factory and mine workers crossed smaller Greyhounds with terrier breeds to create a swift, affordable hunting dog that could catch rabbits in open fields. Whippets became known as the “poor man’s Greyhound” or the “poor man’s racehorse” — their owners raced them in straight 200-yard “rag races” on weekends. Whippets were brought to Australia in the late 19th century by British settlers and quickly proved their worth hunting rabbits.
What this means for you: the Italian Greyhound was bred as a companion for aristocrats. The Whippet was bred as a working dog for everyday people. These origins show up in their temperaments — the Iggy is more delicate, attention-seeking, and indoor-oriented; the Whippet is hardier, more adaptable, and more self-contained.
How to Tell Them Apart
Size is the obvious giveaway. An Italian Greyhound is genuinely tiny — at 3.5–6.5 kg, you can carry one in a tote bag. A Whippet at 11–18 kg is a proper medium-sized dog that you won’t be slipping into your jacket pocket. Without a point of reference (like a person standing next to the dog), it can be hard to tell them apart in photos, but in real life the size difference is dramatic.
Build and bone structure are the next clues. Italian Greyhounds are finer-boned with a more delicate, almost deer-like appearance. Their legs look like they could snap (and unfortunately, they sometimes do). Whippets are sturdier, more muscular through the chest and hindquarters, and have a more athletic build designed for sustained sprinting. Both breeds share the classic sighthound silhouette — deep chest, tucked abdomen, long legs, and elegant curved spine.
Colour is not a reliable differentiator: both breeds come in a wide range of colours including fawn, blue, black, cream, and white. However, Whippets can be brindle (striped), while Italian Greyhounds do not come in brindle according to their breed standard.
Physical Comparison at a Glance
| Physical Trait | Italian Greyhound | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Build / Frame | Fine-boned, delicate, deer-like | Athletic, muscular, sturdy |
| Head Shape | Long, narrow, refined | Long, lean, slightly wider skull |
| Ear Type | Rose ears, fine and soft | Rose ears, slightly larger |
| Tail | Long, thin, low-set, slight curve | Long, thin, tapered, slight curve |
| Coat Length | Very short, fine | Short, smooth |
| Colour Options | Fawn, blue, black, cream, red, white + combinations (NO brindle) | Fawn, blue, black, cream, red, white, brindle + combinations |
What Are They Actually Like to Live With?
Both breeds are quiet, affectionate sighthounds that alternate between explosive bursts of speed and marathon napping sessions. But the daily experience of living with each is quite different.
Energy and exercise: Both breeds run in short, intense bursts rather than sustained endurance. The Whippet needs a solid 30–60 minutes of daily exercise including off-leash sprinting at least twice a week. The Italian Greyhound can burn off energy in a smaller space — a good run around the backyard or indoor zoomies can suffice, though they still benefit from daily walks. After exercise, both breeds transform into world-class couch potatoes. A sighthound’s idea of heaven is a warm blanket, a soft cushion, and being pressed against a human.
Affection style: Both breeds are cuddly and love to burrow under blankets. Italian Greyhounds are more attention-seeking and can be almost cat-like — playful, whimsical, and a bit mischievous. They stay puppy-like well into adulthood. Whippets are calmer, more self-contained, and slightly less demanding of attention, though they’re still deeply affectionate and bond closely with their family.
Kids and family: Whippets are the better choice for families with young children. They’re sturdy enough to handle the accidental bumps and grabs of toddlers. Italian Greyhounds are too fragile for rough play — a child accidentally sitting on, stepping on, or dropping an Iggy can result in a broken leg. IGs do well with gentle, older children (8+) who understand careful handling.
Other dogs: Both breeds get along well with other dogs, and both have a particular affinity for other sighthounds. They’re social pack animals that often do best in pairs. However, both have a strong prey drive that can be triggered by cats, rabbits, and small animals. Socialisation with cats from puppyhood is essential if you want peaceful coexistence.
Separation anxiety: Both breeds are prone to separation anxiety and do not do well when left alone for extended periods. They prefer company — either human or canine. If you work full-time away from home, consider getting two sighthounds (they’ll keep each other company) or arranging for a dog walker.
Health Issues
Both breeds are generally healthy and long-lived (12–15 years), but each has distinct vulnerabilities.
The Italian Greyhound’s biggest health concern is broken legs. Their fine bones, especially in puppies and young adults under 2 years, are susceptible to fractures from jumps off furniture, rough play, or even enthusiastic zoomies on slippery floors. This is not a rare occurrence — it’s a well-known breed risk that every prospective Iggy owner must understand. Dental disease is the other major concern; IGs are notorious for poor dental health and often need professional dental cleanings throughout their lives.
Whippets are a hardier breed with fewer dramatic health risks. Their main concerns are cardiac issues (mitral valve disease), deafness (a genetic predisposition), and bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus, or GDV), which can be life-threatening in deep-chested breeds. Both breeds are sensitive to anaesthesia due to their low body fat, and any vet treating a sighthound should be aware of this.
Common Health Costs Comparison
| Health Concern | Italian Greyhound Risk | Whippet Risk |
|---|---|---|
| Leg Fractures | HIGH | $2,000–$6,000+ AUD per fracture | Low |
| Dental Disease | HIGH | $500–$2,000 AUD per cleaning | Moderate | $500–$1,500 AUD |
| Cardiac Issues | Low–Moderate | Moderate | $1,000–$5,000 AUD |
| Bloat (GDV) | Low (too small) | Moderate | $3,000–$8,000 AUD emergency |
| Deafness | Low | Moderate (genetic predisposition) |
| Eye Conditions (PRA) | Moderate | $300–$3,000 AUD | Low–Moderate | $300–$3,000 AUD |
| Anaesthesia Sensitivity | HIGH — sighthound protocol needed | HIGH — sighthound protocol needed |
| Est. Annual Vet Costs | $800 – $2,500 AUD | $600 – $2,000 AUD |
Italian Greyhounds’ fracture risk is the single biggest health factor when choosing between these two breeds. If you have young children, slippery floors, or a chaotic household, the Iggy’s fragility is a serious practical consideration. Both breeds need a vet experienced with sighthounds, particularly regarding anaesthesia protocols.
Grooming – Which Is More Work?
This is the easiest comparison in the entire article: both breeds are spectacularly low-maintenance. Short, fine coats mean minimal shedding, no professional grooming, and quick baths. If you’re coming from a Golden Retriever or Labrador, a sighthound’s grooming needs will feel like a holiday.
| Grooming Task | Italian Greyhound | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Brushing Frequency | Once a week (optional — more for bonding) | Once a week |
| Professional Grooming | Not needed | Not needed |
| Shedding Level | Very low | Very low |
| Nail Trimming | Every 2–3 weeks (critical) | Every 2–3 weeks |
| Dental Care | Brush 3–5 times/week (prone to dental disease) | Brush 2–3 times/week |
| Bathing | Every 4–6 weeks | Every 4–6 weeks |
The one grooming difference that matters: Italian Greyhounds need significantly more dental care. Their small jaws crowd teeth together, leading to rapid plaque buildup and early tooth loss. Regular tooth brushing is non-negotiable for Iggies — budget for professional dental cleanings every 1–2 years.
Exercise – How Active Are They Really?
Both breeds follow the sighthound pattern: sprint like their life depends on it, then sleep for hours. Neither breed needs marathon walks. They need short, intense bursts of running in a secure area, followed by couch time.
| Exercise Factor | Italian Greyhound | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Daily Exercise Needed | 30–45 minutes | 30–60 minutes + off-leash sprints |
| Exercise Type | Short walks, indoor zoomies, garden play | Walks, sprinting, lure coursing, fetch |
| Off-Leash Reliability | Poor — will bolt after prey | Poor — will bolt after prey |
| Heat Tolerance (Aus summers) | Moderate (minimal coat) | Moderate (minimal coat) |
| Cold Tolerance | Very Low — needs jumpers/coats | Low — needs jumpers/coats in cold weather |
| If Under-Exercised… | Hyperactivity, attention-seeking, mischief | Restlessness, anxiety, destructive behaviour |
Australian Climate Warning
Both breeds have virtually no body fat and very thin coats, which creates two problems in Australia. In summer, their thin skin sunburns easily — use pet-safe sunscreen on exposed areas (belly, nose, ears) and avoid midday walks. In winter (yes, even Australian winters), both breeds get cold quickly and genuinely need dog coats and jumpers. This is not a fashion choice — it’s a health necessity. Both breeds should sleep indoors, ideally under a blanket, year-round.
Fencing is critical for both breeds. Sighthounds can spot movement from extraordinary distances and will bolt after a cat, rabbit, or bird at speeds up to 40+ km/h. Standard pool fencing is not enough. You need minimum 1.8-metre solid fencing with no gaps. Never walk either breed off-leash in an unfenced area — their prey drive overrides recall training.
Training
Neither breed is a Golden Retriever. Sighthounds are intelligent but independent — they understand your commands perfectly; they’re just deciding whether to comply. Both breeds require patience, positive reinforcement, and short, engaging training sessions.
Whippets are slightly easier to train overall. They’re described by breeders as “eager to please” relative to other sighthounds, and they respond well to consistent, gentle training. They’re a reasonable choice for first-time sighthound owners.
Italian Greyhounds are notoriously difficult to house-train. This is the single most common complaint from Iggy owners. Their small bladders, dislike of cold/wet grass, and stubborn streak mean toilet training can take 6–12 months (or longer). Many experienced IG owners recommend indoor toilet options like pee pads or artificial grass trays as a permanent backup.
Common training mistake for both breeds: using harsh correction. Sighthounds are emotionally sensitive. Raised voices, leash corrections, and punishment-based methods will shut them down completely or create fear-based behaviour. Always use reward-based training.
Which Costs More in Australia?
| Cost Category | Italian Greyhound (AUD) | Whippet (AUD) |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy (Registered Breeder) | $2,000 – $5,000 | $1,800 – $3,500 |
| Rescue/Adoption | $300 – $800 | $200 – $600 |
| First-Year Setup | $1,500 – $3,000 | $1,500 – $3,000 |
| Annual Ongoing Costs | $1,500 – $3,000 | $1,500 – $2,500 |
| Pet Insurance (Monthly) | $30 – $70 | $30 – $60 |
| Lifetime Cost (Est.) | $18,000 – $35,000 | $16,000 – $30,000 |
Italian Greyhounds eat very little (they weigh under 7 kg), so food costs are minimal. However, their dental care and fracture risk can generate unexpected vet bills. Budget for dental cleanings every 1–2 years ($500–$2,000 AUD each) and keep an emergency fund for potential fractures. Whippets are more predictable in terms of ongoing costs. Pet insurance is recommended for both breeds.
which one for Australian Owners
Climate suitability: Both breeds handle Australian summers reasonably well (they don’t have heavy coats to overheat in), but both sunburn easily and need UV protection. In cooler southern states (Victoria, Tasmania, ACT), both breeds need dog coats and indoor sleeping arrangements year-round. Neither breed should be kept outdoors.
BSL (Breed-Specific Legislation): Neither breed is affected by BSL in any Australian state or territory. No restrictions, no confusion with restricted breeds, and no additional permits.
Council registration: Straightforward for both breeds. Standard fees apply ($30–$80 AUD desexed).
Rental restrictions: Both breeds are excellent for renters. Their small-to-medium size, quiet nature, and minimal shedding make them highly appealing to landlords. Italian Greyhounds in particular are one of the best apartment dogs available. Neither breed is commonly blacklisted by strata bodies.
Lure coursing and racing: Australia has an active sighthound community with lure coursing events run by state breed clubs. Both breeds can participate, and it’s a great way to satisfy their prey drive safely. Whippets also have a well-established racing community in Australia through the Greyhound Racing Association (GRA). Italian Greyhounds can participate in lure coursing but are too small for formal racing.
Tick and snake risks: Both breeds’ thin skin and fine coats mean ticks are easier to spot, but also that both breeds are highly susceptible to paralysis tick toxin due to their low body weight. Keep both breeds on year-round tick prevention in tick-prone areas. Their instinct to chase small moving objects also puts them at risk of snake encounters — supervise outdoor time in rural and semi-rural areas.
So, which one Should You Get?
- You live in an apartment or small home and want a tiny, quiet, low-shedding companion.
- You’re home most of the time or work from home — Iggies crave constant companionship.
- Your household is calm and child-free (or has gentle, older children 8+).
- You’re prepared to deal with difficult house-training and potential leg fractures.
- You want a sturdy, medium-sized sighthound that’s easier to manage day-to-day.
- You have children of any age — Whippets are gentle and hardy enough for family life.
- You want a dog for lure coursing, racing, or agility alongside companionship.
- You’re a first-time sighthound owner — Whippets are more forgiving of beginner mistakes.
- You want an off-leash hiking buddy. Neither breed has reliable recall when prey drive kicks in.
- You have unfenced outdoor spaces. Sighthounds + no fence = a dog that’s two suburbs away in 30 seconds.
- You leave your dog alone 8+ hours daily. Both breeds are prone to separation anxiety.
- You want a guard dog. Both breeds will greet a burglar with tail wags and show them the good blankets.
- Both breeds are quiet, affectionate sighthounds that sprint fast and nap harder. The Iggy fits in your lap; the Whippet takes up the whole couch.
- If fragility concerns you, choose the Whippet. If size constraints matter (apartment, travel, weight limits), the Iggy wins.
- In Australia, Whippets are easier to find and cheaper to buy. Italian Greyhounds have a smaller but dedicated breeding community — expect a waitlist. Both breeds are available through sighthound rescue organisations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an Italian Greyhound the same as a miniature Greyhound?
Not exactly. The Italian Greyhound is often called a miniature Greyhound because of its similar appearance, but it’s a separate breed with its own history stretching back thousands of years. It belongs to the Toy group, not the Hound group. True miniature Greyhounds don’t exist as a separate breed — if someone is selling “miniature Greyhounds,” they’re most likely referring to Italian Greyhounds or possibly Whippets.
Are Italian Greyhounds or Whippets better for apartments?
Italian Greyhounds are among the best apartment dogs available — they’re tiny, quiet, low-shedding, and can exercise indoors. Whippets also adapt well to apartment living with daily outdoor exercise but need more space due to their medium size. For very small apartments, the Iggy is the clear winner.
Which breed is better for families with young children?
Whippets. They’re sturdy enough to handle the accidental bumps of family life. Italian Greyhounds are too fragile for households with toddlers or young children — a child accidentally dropping, stepping on, or falling onto an Iggy can result in a broken leg.
Why are Italian Greyhounds so hard to house-train?
Italian Greyhounds have small bladders, a strong dislike of wet or cold grass, and an independent streak that makes toilet training challenging. Most Iggy owners report house-training taking 6–12 months. Many experienced owners use indoor toilet options (pee pads or artificial grass trays) as a permanent backup, especially during cold or rainy weather.
How fast can a Whippet and Italian Greyhound run?
Whippets can reach speeds of up to 56 km/h (35 mph), making them one of the fastest dog breeds for their size. Italian Greyhounds can hit about 40 km/h (25 mph). Both breeds are significantly faster than they look and will outrun you in seconds if they bolt after prey.
Do Italian Greyhounds and Whippets get along with cats?
It depends. Both breeds have a strong prey drive triggered by small, fast-moving animals. If socialised with cats from puppyhood, many sighthounds coexist peacefully. However, an unfamiliar cat running across the yard will trigger an instinctive chase in both breeds. Never leave either breed unsupervised with small animals.
Do both breeds need to wear coats in winter?
Yes. Both breeds have virtually no body fat and very thin coats, making them highly susceptible to cold. Even in Australian winters, dog coats are a practical necessity, not a fashion accessory. Both breeds should sleep indoors, preferably with access to blankets. Italian Greyhounds feel the cold more acutely due to their smaller body mass.
Which breed sheds less?
Shedding is minimal and virtually identical for both breeds. Both have short, fine, single coats that shed very little. If you’re comparing these breeds to double-coated dogs like Labradors or Golden Retrievers, both sighthounds shed a fraction of the amount. A weekly brush keeps shedding completely under control.
Can I let my Italian Greyhound or Whippet off-leash at the dog park?
Only in fully fenced, secure dog parks. Neither breed has reliable recall when prey drive is activated. A squirrel, cat, or even a plastic bag blowing in the wind can trigger an explosive sprint that overrides all training. Always use a secure leash or longline in unfenced areas. Many sighthound owners participate in lure coursing to safely satisfy their dog’s instinct to run and chase.
What is the difference between a Whippet and a Greyhound?
Whippets are essentially a smaller version of the Greyhound. Standard Greyhounds stand 68–76 cm and weigh 27–32 kg, while Whippets stand 44–56 cm and weigh 11–18 kg. Both share the sighthound build, temperament, and prey drive. If you want the Greyhound experience in a more manageable, medium-sized package, the Whippet is the answer. In Australia, retired racing Greyhounds are also widely available through adoption programs like Greyhound Rescue and GAP (Greyhounds as Pets).
1. ANKC Breed Standard — Italian Greyhound: https://ankc.org.au/breeds/breed-standard/?breedId=144
2. ANKC Breed Standard — Whippet: https://ankc.org.au/breeds/breed-standard/?breedId=539
3. American Kennel Club — Italian Greyhound vs Whippet: How to Tell the Difference: https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/whippet-vs-italian-greyhound/
4. Pet Circle Australia — Whippet Breed Guide: https://www.petcircle.com.au/discover/breed-guide-whippet
5. Bow Wow Meow Insurance — Whippet Breed Profile: https://bowwowinsurance.com.au/dogs/dog-breeds/whippet/
6. Dogz Online — Italian Greyhound breeders and pricing: https://www.dogzonline.com.au/breeds/puppies/italian-greyhound.asp
7. Dogz Online — Whippet pricing and breed information: https://www.dogzonline.com.au/resources/getting-started/are-you-ready-for-a-dog/how-much-does-it-cost-to-buy-a-whippet
8. Chewy.com — Whippet vs Greyhound vs Italian Greyhound: https://www.chewy.com/education/dog/general/whippet-vs-greyhound-vs-italian-greyhound