You didn’t land on the Whippet by accident. This is a breed people seek out, and for good reason. The poor man's racehorse, gentle, athletic, and surprisingly calm, and the fastest dog for their size, they’re a natural fit for active families, apartment dwellers, and first-time owners who want a gentle, elegant, and surprisingly quiet companion who want a sleek, gentle, and lightning-fast sighthound who is calm and affectionate at home and electric in full sprint. Let’s dig in.
What are the characteristics of a Whippet?
Think you know what you’re getting into with a Whippet? These scores will either confirm your suspicions or give you something to think about. Either way, good to know now.
Training
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Trainability | 3 out of 5 | Sensitive and intelligent. They respond well to gentle positive handling |
| Obedience | 3 out of 5 | Reliable in calm environments. Recall outdoors in open spaces is unreliable once running |
| Focus | 3 out of 5 | Generally attentive in training. Easily redirected by movement |
| Stubbornness | 2 out of 5 | Gentle and cooperative when handled well |
Friendliness
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Good with family | 5 out of 5 | Devoted and deeply affectionate with their family |
| Good with children | 4 out of 5 | Gentle and good with children |
| Good with strangers | 3 out of 5 | Friendly with familiar people. Some reserve with strangers |
| Good with other dogs | 3 out of 5 | Generally good with other dogs |
Adaptability
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Apartment living | 4 out of 5 | One of the more practical sighthounds for apartment life. Calm indoors with adequate exercise |
| Cold weather | 2 out of 5 | Their thin coat and low body fat make them sensitive to cold |
| Hot weather | 3 out of 5 | Tolerates moderate heat |
| Routine flexibility | 4 out of 5 | Adaptable to varied routines when exercise needs are met |
| First time owner | 4 out of 5 | A good option for active first-time owners. Gentle and manageable |
Physical needs
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Energy level | 4 out of 5 | Very high energy outdoors. One of the fastest dogs for their size |
| Endurance | 3 out of 5 | Endurance for sprint activities. Not bred for long-distance sustained running |
| Exercise needs | 4 out of 5 | Needs 30 to 45 minutes of vigorous daily exercise with opportunities to run |
| Mental stimulation | 3 out of 5 | Intelligent and responsive. Sensitive to tone and approach |
| Grooming needs | 1 out of 5 | Short, smooth, single coat that requires almost no grooming |
Personality
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Playfulness | 4 out of 5 | Playful and physically exuberant outdoors |
| Affection | 5 out of 5 | Deeply affectionate and physically close. They are couch dogs as much as racing dogs |
| Loyalty | 4 out of 5 | Loyal and devoted |
| Independence | 3 out of 5 | Some independence. Can handle moderate alone time |
| Alertness | 3 out of 5 | Alert but not reactive |
Behavior
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Barking tendency | 2 out of 5 | Not prone to barking |
| Digging tendency | 2 out of 5 | Low digging tendency |
| Chewing tendency | 2 out of 5 | Low chewing tendency |
| Prey drive | 5 out of 5 | Very high prey drive. They will chase anything that moves and cannot be called off mid-pursuit |
| Guarding instincts | 1 out of 5 | Too gentle and friendly to guard |
What are common health issues of a Whippet?
Like all breeds, Whippets are prone to certain health conditions. Here’s what to keep on your radar.
Hypothyroidism
The thyroid gland does not produce enough hormone, slowing the metabolism. In Whippets, signs include weight gain, low energy, and a dull coat. It is managed with daily medication.
Read more about HypothyroidismHeart Disease
Whippets are prone to heart conditions that can develop over time. Their unique cardiovascular makeup means regular cardiac monitoring is especially important throughout their life.
Read more about Heart DiseaseAutoimmune Disease
Whippets can be prone to autoimmune conditions where the immune system attacks the body's own tissue. Signs vary widely depending on what is affected, so regular vet checkups matter.
Read more about Autoimmune DiseaseEpilepsy
A neurological condition causing recurring seizures, seen in Whippets with some frequency. It often has a genetic component and is typically managed with long-term daily medication.
Read more about EpilepsyTorn Cranial Cruciate Ligament
The CCL stabilizes the knee, and active breeds like the Whippet are at real risk of tearing it. A sudden rear-leg limp after exercise is the most common first sign. Surgery often needed.
Read more about Torn Cranial Cruciate LigamentWhat are the recommended health tests for Whippets?
Your Whippet can’t tell you when something’s off. That’s what these tests are for. Here’s what vets typically recommend for them.
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Cardiac evaluation by a board-certified cardiologist -
CAER ophthalmologist eye exam
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OFA thyroid evaluation
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Notify your veterinarian of sighthound anesthetic sensitivity before any procedure
Do Whippets need pet insurance?
We’ll let the numbers do the talking, but spoiler: a lot of Whippet owners are really glad they had coverage.
Those numbers aren’t hypotheticals. They’re real claims from real Whippet owners in 2025.
The right pet insurance means you’re making decisions based on what your dog needs, not what you can afford.
With Lemonade, you can build a plan around your Whippet specifically. Start with accident and illness coverage as your base, then add on what makes sense for your dog, things like physical therapy, dental illness, or behavioral treatment, and skip what doesn’t. Coverage applies to conditions that aren’t pre-existing (AKA, a condition that occurs after your policy is active and your waiting periods have passed), and you’ll know exactly what’s included before you commit. No fine print ambushes, no surprises at claim time.
And when you do need to file? You can do it in the app in minutes. No paperwork, no hold music, no waiting around.
Whippets are worth protecting with proper coverage. Here’s how to do it right.
How much does pet insurance cost?
The cost of your premium is personal. It depends on your Whippets age, your location, and what you add to your plan. That said, here’s a realistic look at what other Whippet owners pay with Lemonade:
| Age | Average monthly premium |
|---|---|
| 1 year old | $45-$50 |
| 2 years old | $50-$55 |
| 3 years old | $45-$50 |
| 4 years old | $55-$60 |
| 5 years old | $55-$60 |
| 6 years old | $65-$70 |
| 7 years old | $75-$80 |
Not sure if Lemonade is the right fit for your Whippet?
See how we stack up. Compare pet insurance options side by side and find the coverage that fits your Whippet and your budget.
History of the Whippet
The Whippet was developed in northern England during the 19th century from crosses between Greyhounds and various terrier types, producing a dog capable of catching rabbits for working-class families in the industrial towns of the north. They were raced for sport, with owners using rags to call their dogs across straight track races in a sport called rag racing. The Whippet was called the poor man's racehorse because their speed was accessible to working-class families unlike the expensive Thoroughbred horse. The AKC recognized the Whippet in 1888. Today, Whippets are one of the most successful lure coursing and racing breeds and are also widely kept as companion dogs due to their calm, affectionate indoor temperament. Their duality as gentle house dogs and explosive athletes is one of the breed's most appealing qualities.
Caring for a Whippet
Training
Training a Whippet is straightforward, but it’s worth the effort. They are sensitive, gentle, and willing to please when properly motivated, which means they respond well to calm, positive training and do not do well with harsh or forceful methods. Positive reinforcement with high-value treats and a gentle, patient approach tends to work best, and getting started early makes a real difference.
Whether you’re starting from scratch or leveling up, these are worth the read.
Grooming
Whippets have a short, smooth coat that requires minimal grooming. Weekly brushing with a soft bristle brush or rubber mitt is all the coat needs, and the occasional bath keeps them looking their best. Despite their minimal coat care needs, Whippets benefit from regular nail trims and dental attention.
From nail trims to professional care, here’s everything you need to keep your Whippet looking (and feeling) their best.
Exercise and mental stimulation
Whippets have moderate to high energy levels and need 45 to 60 minutes of exercise each day to stay happy and healthy. Sprinting in a secure area, fetch, and leisurely walks are all great ways to burn through that energy. But physical exercise is only half the picture. Whippets are moderately intelligent dogs, and mental stimulation is just as important as the miles you put in. Without it, they become restless, anxious, and prone to destructive behaviors despite their generally calm demeanor. Puzzle toys, training sessions, and scent work are all solid ways to keep their brain engaged between walks.
Here’s how to build an exercise routine your Whippet will actually love.
Nutrition
Whippets are medium dogs with moderate to high energy, so they need a diet to match. Most adults do well on around 900 to 1,200 calories a day, spread across two meals. Depending on what you’re feeding them, expect to spend around $45 to $65 a month on food. Not the cheapest line item, but not the most expensive either.
What goes in the bowl is your call, and your vet’s. Kibble, raw, fresh, or a combination: there’s no single right answer. Focus on quality ingredients, the right portions for your dog’s age and activity level, and you’re most of the way there.
Get the full picture on feeding a Whippet here.
Whippet costs and adoption
What does it cost to bring home a Whippet?
Before your Whippet even sets a paw in your home, there are some one-time costs worth planning for. Here’s what to expect upfront.
| Category | Cost Range | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Adoption (Reputable breeder) | $500-$1,500 | Health testing, vaccinations, early socialization, pedigree |
| Adoption (Rescue/shelter) | $50-$300 | Basic veterinary care, spay/neuter, temperament evaluation |
| Initial veterinary care | $300-$600 | Exam, vaccinations, spay/neuter if needed, microchip |
| Essential supplies | $200-$400 | Crate, bed, leash, collar, food bowls, toys |
| Training classes | $150-$300 | Basic obedience, puppy socialization |
Unexpected costs have a way of showing up in year one more than any other. A starter emergency fund alongside a solid pet insurance plan is the best way to make sure they don’t catch you off guard.
What does it cost to own a Whippet each year?
Once you’re past year one, ownership costs settle into a more predictable rhythm. Here’s what most Whippet owners spend annually, though keep in mind these numbers can vary quite a bit depending on where you live, your dog’s individual health needs, and the choices you make along the way.
| Category | Annual cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Food and treats | $500-$900 | Based on the recommended portion for your Whippet |
| Routine Veterinary Care | $500-$1,000 | Wellness exams, vaccinations, dental care |
| Professional Grooming | $100-$300 | Every Every 8 to 12 weeks, Short smooth coat needs almost no professional grooming. |
| Toys and Supplies | $200-$400 | Replacement items, mental stimulation toys |
What are popular Whippet names?
We’ve crunched the numbers, and found the top 10 most popular names for Whippet we see at Lemonade.
More names where those came from. If none of these are clicking, we’ve done the digging for you. Go find the one that sticks.
Whippet puppies
Puppy veterinary needs
The first year matters a lot. What happens between 8 weeks and 12 months shapes who this dog becomes. Here’s what to focus on.
The first few months are the most important window for your puppy’s health. Core vaccines start at 6–8 weeks and continue through 16 weeks. After that, its annual boosters and routine screening as they grow into adults.
It’s a lot to keep track of. That’s why we made it easy.
Puppy socialization
Whippet puppies are gentle, affectionate, and capable of explosive speed that makes full sprint one of the most beautiful things in the dog world. That a calm indoor temperament and outdoor athletic capacity that is one of the more satisfying dualities in the dog world is part of what makes them a calm, loving home, a fully fenced area for safe running, gentle handling, and cold-weather protection, and it’s also why early socialization matters so much.
Between 8 and 16 weeks, get them in front of as much variety as possible. Different people, animals, sounds, surfaces, and locations. Keep every experience positive. Puppy classes are great for this: supervised, controlled, and full of exactly the kind of novelty a Whippet brain needs to learn that the world is mostly fine.
Where are Whippet’s most popular in the United States?
Based on Lemonade’s own policyholder data, Whippets are most popular in these five states. We’ve also thrown in a few things local pet owners should keep an eye on, so your pup can get out there and explore safely.
1. California
Foxtail grass is one of the sneakiest hazards for California dogs. The barbed seeds can embed in paws, ears, and noses from late spring through early fall, so check your dog after any outdoor time. Wildfire smoke is also a real seasonal concern; when air quality alerts are in effect, it's best to keep walks short and stay indoors as much as possible.
2. New York
In New York City, street hazards are the main thing to watch. Dropped food, discarded gum containing xylitol, and litter are common ingestion risks on sidewalks and in parks. Upstate and in Long Island, the story shifts to ticks: New York is a Lyme disease hotspot, and black-legged ticks are active from early spring through late fall.
3. Texas
Texas heat is intense and sets in early. Hot pavement can burn paws from late spring through early fall, and heatstroke risk is high during midday walks in cities like Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio. Rattlesnakes, scorpions, and fire ants are also common hazards, particularly in suburban and rural areas.
4. Florida
Florida's heat and humidity make heatstroke a real risk, especially in summer. Keep walks to cooler parts of the day and always bring water. Blue-green algae blooms in freshwater lakes and ponds can also be toxic to dogs, so it's best to keep pups out of standing or slow-moving water, particularly from late summer into fall.
5. Washington
Western Washington's wet, mild climate creates near-perfect conditions for fleas year-round, and slugs in the Pacific Northwest can carry lungworm, a parasite dogs can pick up by sniffing or eating them. Eastern Washington and the Cascades bring different risks, including rattlesnakes and wildlife encounters on trails, so knowing which side of the mountains you're on matters.
Breed comparison
Already leaning toward a Whippet? These breeds often get compared, here’s a quick snapshot of how they stack up.
Greyhound
Both are sleek, sensitive sighthounds. Greyhounds are larger but surprisingly more laid-back. Whippets are more adaptable, better for smaller spaces, and more outgoing with families.
Read more
Italian Greyhound
Both are sleek, sensitive sighthounds. Italian Greyhounds are smaller and more delicate. Whippets are sturdier, more adaptable, and better suited to active family households overall.
Read more
Irish Wolfhound
Both are athletic sighthounds. Irish Wolfhounds are much larger and more independent. Whippets are more compact, more adaptable, and better suited to owners with limited space.
Read more
Is a Whippet right for you?
Whippets reward the right owner with an explosive sprinting capability that makes lure coursing and open running genuinely thrilling and a gentle couch-dog affection that makes them some of the most pleasant house dogs in the sighthound family. They just need fully fenced outdoor space, gentle handling, cold-weather clothing, and sighthound anesthetic awareness in return. If you’re ready for that, you’re ready for a Whippet. Make sure they’re protected from day one.
A few quick words, because we <3 our lawyers: This post is general in nature, and any statement in it doesn’t alter the terms, conditions, exclusions, or limitations of the policies issued, which differ according to your state of residence. You’re encouraged to discuss your specific circumstances with your own professional advisors. The purpose of this post is merely to provide you with info and insights you can use to make such discussions more productive! Naturally, all comments by, or references to, third parties represent their own views, and Lemonade assumes no responsibility for them. Coverage may not be available in all states. Please note that statements about coverages, policy management, claims processes, Giveback, and customer support apply to policies underwritten by Lemonade Insurance Company or Metromile Insurance Company, a Lemonade company, sold by Lemonade Insurance Agency, LLC. The statements do not apply to policies underwritten by other carriers.
Insurance claim data is based on Lemonade pet insurance claims that were settled and paid in 2025.
Average insurance premium data is based on Lemonade’s internal data and reflects the average premium over the last 12 complete months, accurate as of June 2026.
Top pet names are sourced from Lemonade’s database of pet names associated with submitted quotes and purchased policies.
Top states for each breed are based on the number of active Lemonade pet insurance policies for that breed in each state as of June 2026.