It is true to say that we are whippet super fans. Therefore, you will be reading a biased and completely pro-whippet opinion on this topic. We will, however, try to transparently share the less easy elements of whippet ownership with you. Here are our pros and cons of owning a whippet, as written by two long-term whippet slaves.
Whippets are fast:
Whippets are characteristically a super fast breed of dog. They can run up to 35 miles per hour! This speed naturally comes with both pros and cons. The pros are that they are glorious to watch as they gracefully twist and turn—the zoomies on a beach are immense! However, their speed also makes them impossible to catch, so beware of moving targets (deer, rabbits, squirrels) or a smelly rabbit corpse. They can also be prone to injuries due to their rapid enthusiasm.
Whippets are energetic:
If we had a pound for every time someone said, “I bet they need a lot of exercise,” we’d be rich! In all honesty, one of the biggest pros of owning a whippet is that they are delightfully lazy. They love a quick sprint or a good sniff, but after that, they sleep for hours. This low-energy lifestyle makes them ideal companions for home workers and wonderful family pets. They even make great running partners for shorter jogs. The cons? If it’s raining, you have almost zero chance of getting your whippet out the door—so prepare for forced duvet days!
Whippets are quiet:
“Whippets are quiet? No, they are not!” you may cry, but hear us out! While we have experienced one very quiet whippet and one very chatty, bossy one, in general, they are peaceful companions and not prone to excessive barking. They are peaceful housemates, perfectly happy snuggled under a blanket. When the day is done, they love nothing more than curling up on the sofa with you.
So where’s the con? Beware, because this stealthy quietness comes with a few mishaps. First up: food theft. Whippets are master counter-surfers, so leaving dinner unattended is a high-risk strategy. That same silent nature also means they will take full advantage of an open door and zoom off before you even notice. They might appear fast asleep, but they always have one eye open!
Whippets are Low Maintenance:
A practical ‘pro’ of whippet ownership is that, due to their short fur, there is no expensive grooming sessions and minimal excessive shedding all over your clothes or home.
However, let’s unpack that “low maintenance” label. While grooming is a breeze, whippets definitely appreciate the finer things in life. They crave the softest beds, the deepest blankets, and the odd “chic yet cozy” jumper. They also demand your full attention and want to hang out with you everywhere—yes, even in the bathroom!
Because of their low body fat and short fur, whippets get chilly very easily. Extra layers like sassy jumpers, waterproof coats, and warm blankets aren’t just fashion statements—they’re everyday essentials to keep your hound comfortable.
Whippets are affectionate:
Whippets are incredibly affectionate, loyal, and cuddly companions. They love nothing more than snuggling up on the sofa with you, and many owners even share their bed with their hound to enjoy those warm whippet hugs. Coming home to that whole-body tail-wag and those beautiful eyes at the end of a long day is almost impossible to beat!
However, because whippets form such strong bonds with their humans, separation training is an absolute must from day one. Like most sighthounds, they do not thrive when left alone for long periods and strongly prefer having company around.
Whippets are beautiful:
Whippets have sleek, graceful silhouettes, the most handsome faces, and deeply expressive eyes. They really are the supermodels of the dog world—and honestly, there just isn’t a downside to that. Sorry no con available here!
Whippets are sensitive:
Whippets are loyal and adoring pets. As previously mentioned, they are happiest when comfortable and cosy with their humans. They are sensitive souls, so exhibit low tolerance to experiencing cold, loneliness or hunger. They find it hard to be away from their family so can be more difficult to settle away from home. Oh, and they are often described as drama queens.
Whippets are the perfect companion:
It really is true! Whippets are loving, fun, quirky, and wonderfully silly. They are practically the perfect size for any home. Full of character, they have a knack for brightening even the bleakest of days. Whippets don’t need excessive exercise, and with the right balance of daily activity and affection, they are content to settle down and keep themselves quietly amused. They are the most wonderful of companions.
If I must find a con to these amazing dogs, I would have to say that they can become an obsession, and are extremely collectible. Prepare to want to add to your pack.
