Whippet

The Whippet, often described as the "poor man's Greyhound," is a magnificent sighthound that has captured the hearts of Australian dog lovers with their perfect balance of athleticism and gentleness. Originally developed in England during the 18th and 19th centuries, these elegant dogs were bred by working-class miners and mill workers who wanted a smaller, more affordable racing dog that could also serve as a loving family companion.

Whippets arrived in Australia during the early 20th century and have steadily grown in popularity among Australian families seeking a medium-sized dog with a calm disposition. Their sleek appearance and gentle nature have made them particularly popular in urban areas across Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth, where their adaptability to apartment living and moderate exercise needs suit the Australian lifestyle perfectly.

Standing as the perfect middle ground between the larger Greyhound and smaller Italian Greyhound, Whippets have earned a reputation as exceptional family dogs throughout Australia. They're known for their "dual personality" – incredibly fast and athletic outdoors, yet calm and content to lounge indoors, earning them the nickname "40-mile-per-hour couch potato." This characteristic makes them ideal for Australian families who want an active companion without the high-maintenance energy levels of some other breeds.

In Australia's diverse climate, Whippets have proven remarkably adaptable, though they do require some special considerations for extreme weather conditions. Their thin skin and minimal body fat mean they need protection from both harsh sun and cold temperatures. Many Australian Whippet owners invest in sun shirts for beach walks and warm coats for cooler southern winters.

The breed's popularity continues to grow across Australia, supported by active breed clubs in most states and a strong showing at dog shows nationwide. Australian Whippet enthusiasts appreciate not only their beauty and speed but also their exceptional temperament, making them wonderful therapy dogs and beloved family members who integrate seamlessly into the relaxed Australian lifestyle.

Whippets possess one of the most appealing temperaments in the dog world, combining gentleness with playfulness in a way that makes them exceptional family companions for Australian households. These dogs are renowned for their calm, affectionate nature and their ability to read the mood of their family, adapting their energy levels accordingly. They're often described as having an almost cat-like quality in their desire to seek out warm, comfortable spots and their independent yet loving nature.

With children, Whippets are typically excellent companions, showing remarkable patience and gentleness even with young family members. Their moderate size makes them less likely to accidentally knock over small children, while their calm disposition means they rarely show aggression or excessive excitement. Australian families often find that Whippets naturally become protective of children without being overly possessive or territorial, making them ideal for households with kids of all ages.

When it comes to other pets, Whippets generally integrate well into multi-pet households, particularly when socialised from puppyhood. However, their strong prey drive means they may chase small animals like cats, rabbits, or birds, especially when outdoors. Many Australian Whippet owners successfully keep them with cats, but this typically requires careful introduction and ongoing management. Their gentle nature with other dogs makes them popular at Australian dog parks, though their thin skin means rough play should be monitored.

Key Whippet temperament traits include:

• Gentle and affectionate with family members
• Calm and quiet indoors - excellent for apartment living
• Sensitive and responsive to their owner's emotions
• Friendly with strangers but not overly excitable
• High prey drive outdoors but manageable with training
• Intelligent and eager to please during training
• Low barking tendency - rarely nuisance barkers
• Adaptable to various family situations and lifestyles

Training a Whippet requires patience and positive reinforcement, as these sensitive dogs don't respond well to harsh corrections or negative training methods. Australian trainers often recommend reward-based training with treats and praise, as Whippets are naturally eager to please but can become withdrawn if treated roughly. Their intelligence means they learn quickly, but their independent streak means consistency is key to successful training outcomes.

Whippets are medium-sized sighthounds with an unmistakably elegant and athletic build that perfectly reflects their dual nature as both sprinters and companion dogs. Males typically stand 47-51cm (18.5-20 inches) at the shoulder and weigh between 12-21kg (26-46 pounds), while females are slightly smaller at 44-47cm (17.5-18.5 inches) and 12-18kg (26-40 pounds). This size makes them ideal for Australian households seeking a dog that's substantial enough to be a proper companion but not so large as to be overwhelming in smaller homes.

The Whippet's body is built for speed, featuring a deep chest, narrow waist, and powerful hindquarters that give them their characteristic "tuck-up" appearance. Their heads are long and lean with a gentle expression, large dark eyes, and small rose-shaped ears that fold back naturally. The neck is long and elegant, flowing into well-laid-back shoulders that contribute to their graceful movement both at rest and in motion.

One of the most striking features of Whippets is their coat, which is short, smooth, and close-lying, requiring minimal grooming but offering little protection from weather extremes – a consideration particularly important in Australia's varied climate. The coat comes in virtually any colour or combination of colours, making each Whippet unique in appearance.

Common Whippet colours seen in Australia include:

• Solid colours: black, blue, red, fawn, cream, and white
• Brindle patterns in various base colours
• Parti-colours with white markings
• Blue and white, red and white, brindle and white combinations

Their tail is long and tapering, carried low with a gentle curve, and their feet are well-arched with thick pads – important for Australian conditions where hot pavement and rough terrain can be challenging. The overall impression of a Whippet should be one of elegance, balance, and power, with every aspect of their build contributing to their ability to achieve speeds of up to 60 kilometres per hour while maintaining the grace and beauty that makes them such appealing companions for Australian families.

Whippets are generally healthy dogs with a lifespan of 12-15 years, making them excellent long-term companions for Australian families. However, like all breeds, they have some specific health considerations that potential owners should understand, particularly in relation to Australia's unique environmental challenges including extreme heat, paralysis ticks, and venomous snakes.

The most significant health concerns in Whippets include heart conditions, particularly heart murmurs and mitral valve disease, which can develop as dogs age. Eye conditions such as progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and corneal dystrophy can also occur, making regular eye examinations important. Some Whippets may experience colour dilution alopecia, particularly in blue and fawn dogs, which can cause hair loss and skin sensitivity – a particular concern in Australia's intense UV environment.

In Australia's climate, Whippets face specific challenges due to their thin skin and minimal body fat. They're highly susceptible to sunburn and skin cancer, particularly on their nose, ears, and any exposed pink skin. Australian owners should invest in dog-safe sunscreen and protective clothing for extended outdoor activities. Conversely, Whippets are also sensitive to cold and may need coats during cooler months, even in Australia's generally mild climate.

Paralysis ticks pose a significant risk to Whippets along Australia's eastern coast, and their sensitivity to chemicals means tick prevention products must be chosen carefully in consultation with an Australian veterinarian. Snake bite awareness is crucial, as Whippets' curiosity and prey drive may lead them to investigate dangerous wildlife. Their thin skin also makes them more vulnerable to cuts and scrapes, requiring careful monitoring during bush walks or beach runs.

Preventive care should include regular veterinary check-ups every six months, annual heart examinations, eye testing, and maintaining current vaccinations against diseases common in Australia. Dental care is particularly important as Whippets can be prone to dental issues. Regular grooming helps identify skin problems early, while maintaining an appropriate weight prevents stress on their delicate build and reduces the risk of bloat, though this condition is less common in Whippets than in larger sighthounds.

Whippets are among the easiest dogs to groom, with their short, smooth coat requiring minimal maintenance – a definite advantage for busy Australian families. However, their simple grooming needs shouldn't be overlooked, as regular care helps maintain their skin health, which is particularly important in Australia's harsh sun and varied climate conditions.

Weekly brushing with a soft bristle brush or grooming mitt is sufficient to remove loose hair and distribute natural oils throughout their coat. During shedding seasons – typically spring and autumn in Australia – daily brushing may be helpful to manage the increased hair loss. Many Australian Whippet owners find that a rubber grooming glove works exceptionally well for removing loose hair while providing a massage that most Whippets thoroughly enjoy.

Bathing should be done only when necessary, typically every 6-8 weeks or when the dog becomes dirty from outdoor adventures. Over-bathing can strip the natural oils from their thin skin, potentially causing irritation and dryness – particularly problematic in Australia's often dry climate. When bathing, use a gentle, dog-specific shampoo and ensure thorough rinsing, as soap residue can cause skin irritation on their sensitive skin.

Regular nail trimming every 2-3 weeks is essential, as Whippets' nails grow quickly and long nails can affect their gait and comfort. Their thin skin makes them more sensitive to nail trimming, so gradual introduction and positive reinforcement are important. Dental care should include daily teeth brushing or dental chews, as Whippets can be prone to dental issues. Weekly ear cleaning with a vet-approved solution helps prevent infections, particularly important in Australia's humid coastal areas.

In Australia's intense sun, special attention should be paid to protecting exposed pink skin areas with dog-safe sunscreen, particularly on the nose and ear tips. During cooler months, even in Australia's generally mild climate, many Whippets benefit from coats or jumpers, both for comfort and to protect their skin. Regular skin checks during grooming sessions help identify any unusual lumps, bumps, or skin changes that may require veterinary attention, which is particularly important given their susceptibility to skin conditions in Australia's UV-intense environment.

Whippets have moderate exercise needs that are easily manageable for most Australian families, making them excellent companions for people seeking an active but not overly demanding dog. Despite their racing heritage and impressive speed capabilities, Whippets are surprisingly adaptable to various exercise routines and are often content with 30-60 minutes of daily activity, depending on their age and individual energy levels.

For puppies under 18 months, exercise should be carefully managed to protect developing joints and bones. Short, frequent play sessions of 15-20 minutes, combined with free play in a secure yard, are ideal. Australian puppy owners should be particularly mindful of exercising during cooler parts of the day, as hot pavement can damage sensitive paw pads and young Whippets are especially susceptible to overheating.

Adult Whippets thrive on a combination of daily walks and opportunities for free running in secure areas. A typical exercise routine might include a 20-30 minute morning walk, some backyard play time, and an evening walk or off-leash run in a fenced dog park. Many Australian Whippet owners find that two moderate walks per day, combined with some free running time, keeps their dogs physically satisfied and mentally content.

Mental stimulation is equally important for Whippets, who are intelligent dogs that can become bored without adequate mental challenges. Puzzle toys, training sessions, and interactive games help keep their minds engaged. Many Australian owners enjoy activities like lure coursing, which allows Whippets to express their natural hunting instincts in a controlled environment, or agility training, which combines physical exercise with mental stimulation.

Australia's climate requires special consideration for Whippet exercise routines. During summer months, exercise should be limited to early morning and late evening when temperatures are cooler, with midday activities avoided on hot days. Beach runs are popular with Australian Whippets, but owners should provide shade and fresh water, and be mindful of hot sand. In tropical areas, humidity levels should be considered, as Whippets can struggle in very humid conditions. Winter exercise in southern Australian cities may require coats to keep these temperature-sensitive dogs comfortable during longer walks.

The cost of owning a Whippet in Australia varies significantly depending on whether you're purchasing a pet-quality or show-quality dog, your location, and the level of care you provide. As of 2025, pet-quality Whippet puppies from reputable breeders typically range from $1,500 to $3,000, while show-quality dogs with champion bloodlines can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $6,000 or more, particularly if imported lines are involved.

First-year costs are always the highest, as they include initial purchase price plus setup expenses. Beyond the puppy cost, new owners should budget $2,000-$3,500 for first-year expenses including initial veterinary care (vaccinations, microchipping, desexing), quality food, bedding, toys, grooming supplies, training classes, and essential items like leads, collars, and coats for Australia's variable weather. Registration with local councils typically costs $50-$200 annually, depending on your location and whether the dog is desexed.

Annual ongoing costs for a Whippet typically range from $1,500 to $2,500 per year. This includes quality food ($400-$800), routine veterinary care including vaccinations and health checks ($300-$600), parasite prevention crucial in Australia ($200-$400), pet insurance ($500-$1,200), grooming supplies ($100-$200), and replacement toys and accessories ($100-$300). Emergency veterinary costs should also be considered, as unexpected injuries or illnesses can easily cost $1,000-$5,000 or more.

Several factors can help Australian families manage Whippet ownership costs effectively. Pet insurance can significantly reduce unexpected veterinary expenses, with many Australian providers offering breed-specific coverage. Buying quality food in bulk, learning basic grooming techniques, and maintaining preventive healthcare can reduce long-term costs. Many Australian councils offer reduced registration fees for desexed dogs, and some veterinary clinics provide discount packages for routine care.

Location significantly impacts costs, with metropolitan areas like Sydney and Melbourne typically more expensive than regional areas. However, regional areas may have limited veterinary services, potentially requiring travel for specialist care. When budgeting, Australian families should also consider additional costs like pet-friendly accommodation if renting, potential property damage, and holiday care arrangements, which can range from $30-$80 per day for professional pet sitting services.

How to Find a Responsible Whippet Breeder

Finding a responsible Whippet breeder is crucial for ensuring your new companion is healthy, well-socialised, and comes from ethical breeding practices. Unfortunately, not all breeders maintain the same standards, so knowing what to look for—and what to avoid—is essential.

Red Flags to Watch For

Be wary of breeders who exhibit these warning signs:

• Unwillingness to show breeding facilities: Responsible breeders welcome visits to see where puppies are raised
• No health testing documentation: Quality breeders provide health clearances for both parents
• Pressure tactics: Legitimate breeders never rush your decision or create false urgency
• Multiple litters available year-round: This often indicates puppy farming operations
• Won't provide references: Good breeders are happy to connect you with previous puppy buyers
• Cash-only transactions: Professional breeders offer proper payment methods and receipts

Learn more about avoiding puppy scams and assessing breeder quality in our comprehensive guides.

What Responsible Breeders Provide

Quality Whippet breeders should offer:

• Health clearances: Documentation of genetic testing for common Whippet conditions
• Breeding contracts: Clear terms regarding health guarantees and responsibilities
• Early socialisation: Puppies exposed to various sounds, textures, and experiences
• Ongoing support: Guidance throughout your dog's life, including training advice
• Registration papers: Proper documentation from Dogs Australia (ANKC) or state bodies like Dogs NSW, Dogs Victoria, Dogs Queensland, Dogs SA, Dogs Tasmania, or Dogs West
• Vaccination and worming records: Complete health documentation from birth

Essential Questions to Ask Breeders

Before committing to a puppy, ask these important questions:

• Can I meet both parent dogs (or at least the mother)?
• What health testing have you completed on the breeding pair?
• How do you socialise your puppies?
• What ongoing support do you provide new owners?
• Can you provide references from previous puppy buyers?
• Are you registered with Dogs Australia or your state canine body?
• What's included in your health guarantee?

Understanding breeding regulations in Australia can help you make informed decisions about breeder legitimacy.

Why Choose Doggo for Your Whippet Search

At Doggo, we take the guesswork out of finding responsible breeders. Every breeder on our platform undergoes verification processes, ensuring they meet our standards for ethical breeding practices. Rather than spending countless hours researching and vetting breeders yourself, you can browse our curated selection of verified Whippet breeders across Australia with confidence.

Our verification process means you can focus on finding the perfect Whippet puppy match rather than worrying about breeder legitimacy—we've already done that detective work for you.

Browse verified Whippet breeders on Doggo today.

Whippets are remarkably adaptable dogs that can thrive in various living situations across Australia, from inner-city apartments to rural properties, making them excellent choices for many different family types. Their moderate size and generally calm indoor temperament mean they don't require large homes, but they do need access to secure outdoor areas where they can exercise and stretch their legs safely.

For apartment living, Whippets are among the best medium-sized breeds, as they're naturally quiet, rarely bark excessively, and are content to spend most of their day resting indoors. However, apartment-dwelling Whippets need daily walks and regular access to secure off-leash areas where they can run freely. Many Australian city councils provide excellent fenced dog parks that are perfect for Whippet exercise needs.

Families with children will find Whippets to be wonderful companions, as their gentle nature and moderate energy levels make them patient and loving with kids of all ages. Their size makes them less likely to accidentally knock over small children, while their calm temperament means they rarely become overly excited or nippy during play. However, supervision is always recommended with very young children, and families should teach children to respect the dog's thin skin and avoid rough handling.

Climate considerations are particularly important for Whippets in Australia's diverse weather conditions. They adapt well to most Australian climates but need protection from extreme temperatures – coats for cooler weather and shade/sun protection during hot summers. Homes with air conditioning are beneficial in Australia's northern regions, while southern Australian homes may need heating considerations for winter months.

Whippets are not suitable for families seeking a guard dog, as their friendly nature extends to strangers and they rarely show protective behaviours. They're also not ideal for households wanting a highly active outdoor companion for activities like long hiking trips or camping adventures, as they prefer shorter bursts of activity followed by rest. Families with small pets like rabbits or birds may find Whippets challenging due to their strong prey drive.

Secure fencing is essential, as Whippets can jump surprisingly high and may chase interesting scents or sights. The ideal Whippet home provides a balance of indoor comfort and outdoor access, with owners who appreciate their gentle nature and understand their exercise needs. Find your perfect Whippet companion today.