Breed Comparison
Whippet vs Greyhound
Side-by-side breakdown of shedding, trainability, cost, temperament, and whether either breed suits your lifestyle — with honest UK context.
Whippet
The underrated gem of British dog breeds. Fast as lightning outdoors, perfectly …
Greyhound
The world's fastest dog that spends 18 hours a day asleep. Ex-racers make the mo…
The Whippet is a medium-sized breed while the Greyhound is large. Whippets are moderate-energy, Greyhounds are low-energy. Puppy prices: Whippet £700–£1 800, Greyhound £200–£500 from UK breeders.
Side-by-side comparison
| Whippet | Greyhound | |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Large |
| Weight | 12–18 kg | 27–40 kg |
| Lifespan | 12–15 yrs longer | 10–14 yrs |
| Shedding | Minimal shedding | Minimal shedding |
| Barking | Quiet | Quiet |
| Trainability | Moderate | Moderate |
| Good with kids | Yes | Yes |
| Good with cats | Chases cats | Chases cats |
| Hypoallergenic | No | No |
| UK puppy price | £700–£1 800 | £200–£500 cheaper |
| Insurance/month | £25–£55/mo | £25–£55/mo |
Green highlight = advantage on that trait. Prices are UK averages from reputable KC-registered breeders (2024–25).
Quick verdict
Whippet
Greyhound
Which should you choose?
Both the Whippet and Greyhound have their merits — the right choice depends on your lifestyle, living situation, and what matters most in a dog. Here is an honest breakdown of who each breed suits best.
Choose the Whippet if…
- Longevity matters to you — Whippets tend to live longer
- Their temperament — gentle, quiet, affectionate — matches what you are looking for
Choose the Greyhound if…
- Budget is a factor — Greyhounds typically cost less to buy
- Their temperament — gentle, quiet, affectionate — matches what you are looking for
Energy and exercise requirements
The Greyhound is the higher-energy breed here — Greyhounds need 90–120 minutes of exercise daily, while the Greyhound is more manageable at 30–45 minutes per day. This difference matters significantly if you have a small home, work long hours, or aren't an active exerciser.
Cost comparison
Buying a Whippet costs £700–£1 800 from a reputable UK breeder, compared to £200–£500 for a Greyhound. Insurance is another key variable: Whippets run £25–£55/mo monthly versus £25–£55/mo for Greyhounds. Over a dog's lifetime, insurance and food costs typically dwarf the initial purchase price — factor both into your budget.
Which is easier to live with day-to-day?
Energy level is the dominant practical difference here. Both breeds have moderate exercise needs that most owners can meet comfortably.
The honest summary
These two breeds are closely matched — neither has a clear overall edge. The decision really comes down to which traits matter most in your household.
Both the Whippet and Greyhound can be wonderful dogs in the right hands and the right home. The worst outcome is choosing based on looks or trend alone — make sure their energy level, grooming needs, and temperament fit your life before you commit.
Before you decide
Whatever breed you choose, buy from a reputable breeder who health-tests their breeding stock — not a puppy farm or pet shop. For the Whippet, check what health testing the relevant breed club recommends (KC Assured Breeders follow minimum health testing requirements). The same applies to the Greyhound. A slightly higher purchase price from a responsible breeder is almost always cheaper than the veterinary bills from a poorly-bred dog.
If you're still undecided after reading this comparison, consider meeting dogs of both breeds in person — at a breed club event, through a local rescue, or by contacting a reputable breeder who allows you to meet the parents. Temperament on paper and temperament in the room are not always the same thing. Spend time with both breeds before committing: it's a 10–15 year relationship.