Breed comparison
Whippet or Greyhound: Which breed should you choose?
Whippet and Greyhound are two dog breeds often compared by prospective owners. Here’s a point-by-point comparison to help you decide: size, temperament, purchase price, monthly budget, and compatibility with your lifestyle.
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Key takeaways
- Greyhound is larger: 26–38 kg compared with 10–16 kg for Whippet.
- Greyhound costs less to buy: €500 – €1,000 compared with €700 – €1,000 for Whippet.
- Whippet costs less day to day: about €119 per month compared with €170 for Greyhound.
- Both breeds need a similar level of daily activity (5/5).
- Whippet scores higher for “Families and children”: 4/5 compared with 3/5 for Greyhound.
- Whippet scores higher for “Apartment living”: 3/5 compared with 2/5 for Greyhound.
- Whippet scores higher for “First-time owners”: 3/5 compared with 2/5 for Greyhound.
- Whippet lives longer on average: 12–15 years compared with 10–13 years for Greyhound.
Our verdict
Choose Whippet if you’re looking for…
- Calm but active homes: The Whippet likes peace and quiet at home while needing quality outings every day.
- People who like sighthounds: Its sensitive, reserved and elegant temperament suits lovers of refined and discreet dogs.
- Indoor living with outings: It can live well in an apartment if its need for movement is truly respected.
Choose Greyhound if you’re looking for…
- Calm but available owners: It suits people who appreciate a discreet dog while ensuring good daily outings.
- House with a fenced garden: A secure space makes relaxation easier and limits the risks linked to its chasing instinct.
- Fans of large sensitive dogs: Its gentle temperament appeals to households looking for a refined, affectionate and not very demonstrative companion.
Detailed comparison
| General information | ||
|---|---|---|
| Origin | United Kingdom | United Kingdom |
| FCI group | 10 | 10 |
| Build | Medium | Large |
| Height at the withers | 44–51 cm | 68–76 cm |
| Weight | 10–16 kg | 26–38 kg |
| Coat | Short, fine and close | Short, fine and close |
| Life expectancy | 12–15 years | 10–13 years |
| Average price | €700 – €1,000 | €500 – €1,000 |
| Monthly budget | ≈ €119 | ≈ €170 |
| Compatibility | ||
| Families and children | Very good | Good |
| Daily exercise needs | Very high | Very high |
| Apartment living | Good | Fair |
| First-time owners | Good | Fair |
| Other pets | Good | Good |
| Tolerance of being alone | Good | Fair |
| Guarding instinct | Good | Limited |
| Strengths and weaknesses | ||
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