Are you deciding between a Whippet and Italian Greyhound? Discover the differences in size, temperament, and exercise needs to help you make an informed choice. Read on!Greyhounds are one of the dog breeds that have been crossed the most, as well as the oldest, which is why we find many families within this same type of dog.
Whippets and Italian Greyhounds are often compared due to their physical similarities and shared ancestry. Both are sighthounds, bred for their exceptional speed and agility. However, despite their commonalities, they are distinct breeds with distinct traits.
All of these greyhounds are called “sighthounds” , which includes dogs that have a similar physical constitution in terms of their racing capabilities, height, length and type of ears. However, there are different types of greyhounds, some of them even have nothing to do with that traditional greyhound, since they are not even made for racing.
Difference Between Whippet and Italian Greyhound
Whippets and Italian Greyhounds are both sighthound breeds known for their grace, speed, and slender builds, but they have distinct differences that set them apart. Here’s a comparison of the two breeds:
- Size: Whippets are larger than Italian Greyhounds. An adult Whippet typically stands about 18-22 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs 25-40 pounds, whereas an Italian Greyhound stands around 13-15 inches tall and weighs 7-14 pounds.
- Appearance: While both breeds have a similar slim, streamlined silhouette, the Whippet is more muscular and powerful in build. Italian Greyhounds have a more delicate bone structure and are often described as more elegant or refined in appearance.
- Temperament: Both breeds are known for their affectionate nature and loyalty to their families. Whippets tend to be slightly more laid-back and are known for their bursts of high speed when running, followed by long periods of rest. Italian Greyhounds are often more energetic and playful, and can be a bit more sensitive.
- Exercise Needs: Both breeds need regular exercise, but due to their size differences, Whippets may require more physical activity to satisfy their energy levels. Italian Greyhounds, while still playful and energetic, can often have their exercise needs met with more indoor play and shorter walks.
- Health: Both breeds are generally healthy, but they have different health concerns. Whippets are prone to eye disorders, deafness, and heart issues, while Italian Greyhounds are more prone to dental problems due to their smaller mouths, as well as leg fractures because of their fine bones.
- History and Purpose: Both breeds have a history of being bred for hunting small game due to their speed and keen sight. Whippets originated in England in the 19th century and were used for hunting and racing. Italian Greyhounds have a more ancient lineage, with evidence of the breed existing over 2,000 years ago in countries around the Mediterranean, valued for companionship as much as for hunting small game.
- Coat and Grooming: Both breeds have short, smooth coats that are easy to care for, requiring only regular brushing to remove loose hair. However, due to their thin coats and low body fat, both breeds can be sensitive to cold weather and might need clothing for warmth during winter months.
- Popularity: While both breeds are popular, Whippets are generally more commonly found in various dog sports including racing, lure coursing, and agility due to their larger size and athletic ability. Italian Greyhounds, being smaller and more delicate, are less commonly seen in these sports but are still popular in dog shows and as companion pets.
In summary, while Whippets and Italian Greyhounds share many traits typical of sighthounds, their differences in size, temperament, exercise needs, and health concerns are significant, making them suited to different types of families and living conditions.
Conclusion
In summary, while Whippets and Italian Greyhounds may share some physical characteristics, there are notable differences in size, temperament, exercise needs, trainability, and suitability as family pets. Whippets are larger, calmer, and have moderate exercise needs, making them a great choice for a laid-back lifestyle