Whippet

Whippet Grooming Profile

Whippets are medium-sized sighthounds reaching full height by 15 months and maturing by age two. These low-maintenance companions possess short, single coats with minimal shedding, requiring only weekly brushing. While allergy-friendly, they are not strictly hypoallergenic. Owners should manage their 1.5-2 cup daily diet carefully to support their athletic build while providing regular exercise opportunities throughout the week.

Breed Group

Hound Dogs

Country of Origin

United Kingdom

Breed Size

Medium

AKC Recognition

Yes, recognized in 1888

FCI Recognition

Yes, recognized in 1955

Allergy-friendly

Good

8 / 10

Shedding

Low

8 / 10

Grooming need

5 mins/week

10 / 10

Low-maintenance

Very Easy

10 / 10

Growth timeline

15-18 months

4 / 10

Feeding amount

1.5-2 cups

4 / 10

Grooming FAQ

Are Whippet hypoallergenic or allergy-friendly?

Whippets are not considered hypoallergenic. While they have short, smooth coats and are very light shedders, they still produce dander and saliva, which are common allergens. Potential owners with sensitivities should spend time with the breed beforehand, as they can still trigger allergic reactions in many individuals.

Allergy-friendly: 8 / 10

Do Whippet shed?

Whippets are low-maintenance shedders with short, fine, single-layered coats. While they lose hair year-round, the amount is minimal and often goes unnoticed. They lack a dense undercoat, making their shedding much lighter than many other breeds. Regular weekly brushing is sufficient to manage stray hairs effectively.

Shedding: 8 / 10

How often should you groom a Whippet?

To maintain a healthy Whippet, brush their short, smooth coat once a week with a rubber mitt to manage light shedding. Bathe them only as needed, typically every six to eight weeks. Regular nail trims, ear cleanings, and daily teeth brushing are essential for their overall comfort. Checking ears for infection and regular nail trims as part of the essential routine.

Grooming need: 10 / 10

Are Whippet low-maintenance dogs?

Whippets are considered low-maintenance dogs due to their calm indoor nature and minimal grooming needs. Their short, single coats shed very little and only require weekly brushing. While they need daily sprints to expel energy, they spend most of their time quietly relaxing on the couch.

Low-maintenance: 10 / 10

How big do Whippet get?

The Whippet is a medium-sized sighthound known for its streamlined, athletic build. Males typically stand 19 to 22 inches tall, while females range from 18 to 21 inches. They generally weigh between 25 and 40 pounds, appearing as a smaller, more compact version of the classic Greyhound.

Size: 5 / 10

When do Whippet stop growing?

Whippets typically reach their full adult height between 12 and 15 months of age. While their skeletal growth tapers off during this period, they continue to fill out, develop muscle tone, and refine their physical structure until they are approximately two years old. Full adult height is typically reached by 12-15 months, though they fill out until age two.

Growth timeline: 4 / 10

How much should a Whippet eat?

Adult Whippets typically require 1.5 to 2 cups of high-quality, high-protein dry food daily, divided into two meals. They are not generally prone to food allergies but require high-quality, high-protein meals to maintain muscle tone. Monitor their weight closely to maintain their lean, athletic build and adjust portions based on activity levels. Whippets are not generally prone to food allergies but require high-quality, high-protein meals to maintain muscle tone.

Feeding amount: 4 / 10

How often should a Whippet puppy eat?

Whippet puppies require frequent, small meals to support their rapid growth and high energy. While they may start at 3-4 meals, they generally transition to 3 meals daily until six months of age. Afterward, transition to two meals per day.

Puppy feeding frequency: 7 / 10

Vet Insights

Whippets are medium-sized sighthounds reaching full height by 15 months and maturing by age two. These low-maintenance companions possess short, single coats with minimal shedding, requiring only weekly brushing. While allergy-friendly, they are not strictly hypoallergenic. Owners should manage their 1.5-2 cup daily diet carefully to support their athletic build while providing regular exercise opportunities throughout the week.

Dr. Vojtech Gabriel
Reviewed by
Dr. Vojtech Gabriel
DVM · PhD · MBA
VeterinarianResearcherDog breed specialist
Verified

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