Two common choices as a racing dogs are Whippet and the Greyhound. They are known for their sleek physiques and incredible speed and known as athletic dogs . In this article, we’ll explore Whippet vs Greyhound size, race and speed comparison in details.
Whippet vs Greyhound Physical Characteristics
Whippets and Greyhounds look very different from one another. Greyhounds, in comparison to Whippets, are much bigger. The shoulder height of a typical Greyhound is around 27 inches, while that of a Whippet is around 20 inches. The size differential between these two breeds may have a major impact on their sprinting abilities.
While both whippets and greyhounds are fast, the latter tend to be a bit quicker on the track. A Greyhound that has received proper training may run as fast as 45 miles per hour, whereas a Whippet can go as fast as 35 miles per hour. But, keep in mind that every dog is different; sizes and speeds will vary depending on the breed.
Whippet vs Greyhound speed comparison
When it comes to speed, Whippets and Greyhounds are equally matched. Both animals can reach speeds of about 40 miles per hour, making them very fast. When it comes to speed, though, greyhounds come out on top. In contrast to Whippets, who take a few seconds longer to attain top speed, their maximum velocity can be reached in a matter of seconds. If you’re looking for a dog that can cover short distances very quickly, a Greyhound is your best bet. Yet, if you need a dog that can keep its speed up over long distances, a Whippet is probably your best bet.
Greyhound vs Whippet size comparison
The difference in size between Whippets and Greyhounds is substantial. Compared to a Greyhound, which averages 28 inches at the shoulder, a Whippet tops out at around 18 inches. This suggests they are not merely more nimble due to their reduced weight. Whippets may be shorter in stature than Greyhounds, but they lack the latter’s speed and stamina when it comes to extended races.
Without a doubt, the fastest mode of transportation is a greyhound. They are one of the quickest dog breeds on the planet, capable of reaching speeds of up to 45 miles per hour. Whippets, on the other hand, have been recorded running at speeds of up to 35 mph. So, a Greyhound is your best option if you want a dog that can compete well in races.
Keep in mind, too, that even within a given breed, there will be variations in appearance and personality. The average size and speed of a Whippet can vary widely, however some are far larger or faster than average. The best approach to figure out what kind of size and pace works best for you is to meet both breeds and see which one you click with.
Greyhound vs Whippet Temperament comparison
Similarities and differences in temperament exist between Whippets and Greyhounds. Both Greyhounds and Whippets are good natured and friendly, while Greyhounds tend to be more self-reliant. In addition, Greyhounds are more sociable than Whippets, who can be wary of new canine companions. Yet, dogs of either breed are great additions to any family.
When compared to Whippets, Greyhounds have far higher stamina. Part of the reason for this is the dogs’ ancestry as hunters: Whippets were originally bred as mine and mill ratters, while Greyhounds have been bred for generations to chase game over extremely long distances. Thus, Greyhounds can’t lead a sedentary lifestyle because they need so much more exercise compared to Whippets. If you’re looking for a low-key dog to take on walks and hang out with at home, a Whippet is a better option than a Greyhound.
Greyhound vs Whippet Health comparison
Both Whippets and Greyhounds require little in the way of veterinary care. There are a few things to remember when caring for them.
The risk of heatstroke is a major factor to think about with both breeds. This is because they don’t perspire much and have very light coats. So, it is essential to provide them with a cool environment and lots of water to drink during hot weather.
Both dog types also have a high propensity for developing joint problems. This is especially true for Greyhounds, as their joints are regularly subjected to the rigours of racing. Talk to your vet about options for preventing or lessening the severity of joint problems if you’re considering either breed.
Sight Hounds, like Greyhounds and Whippets, were specifically bred to track and kill moving prey using only their eyes. This makes it difficult to instruct them not to chase smaller animals like cats and rabbits. It is essential to socialise your Whippet or Greyhound from an early age if you have other pets in the home.
Greyhound vs Whippet comparison- which is better?
The detailed comparison between whippet vs Greyhound is given below-
| Characteristic | Greyhound | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Egypt | England |
| Size | Large | Small to Medium |
| Weight | 60-70 lbs | 25-45 lbs |
| Height | 27-30 in | 18-22 in |
| Life expectancy | 10-14 yrs | 12-15 yrs |
| Coat type | Short, smooth | Short, smooth |
| Coat color | Various | Various |
| Temperament | Gentle, affectionate, calm | Playful, affectionate, sensitive |
| Trainability | Independent, may be difficult to train | Intelligent, responsive, trainable |
| Exercise needs | Moderate to high | Moderate to high |
| Grooming needs | Low | Low |
| Health concerns | Hip dysplasia, bloat, heart problems | Deafness, eye problems |
| Good for apartments | No | Yes |
| Good for families | Yes, with proper socialization and training | Yes, with proper socialization and training |
Considerations such as stature, ethnicity, and velocity are crucial. The greyhound and the whippet both originated as racing dogs. While racing dogs like greyhounds and whippets have been around for generations, the former only started competing in the sport in the nineteenth century. A greyhound, on the other hand, is a better choice if you want a dog with more racing experience.
Conclusion
Both the Whippet and the Greyhound are powerful, muscular, and elegant canine breeds. Both have sleek bodies and can reach high running speeds, but the latter are far smaller. The whippet’s smaller size and lighter build provide it speed but at the expense of overall speed compared to the greyhound. I hope you like reading on Whippet vs Greyhound size, race and speed comparison.