WhippetVSItalian Greyhound
The Whippet and Italian Greyhound look strikingly similar in miniature and full size — both are elegant, affectionate sighthounds. Their size difference, however, creates significant differences in durability and household suitability.
Last reviewed: June 2026
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Category | Whippet | Italian Greyhound |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 25–40 lbs, 18–22 in | 7–14 lbs, 13–15 in |
| Energy Level | Moderate (sprint bursts) | Moderate |
| Shedding | Very Low | Very Low |
| Trainability | ✓Good | Moderate (sensitive) |
| Good With Kids | ✓Excellent | Moderate (fragile) |
| Apartment Friendly | Good | ✓Excellent |
| Average Lifespan | 12–15 years | 14–15 years |
| Monthly Cost (est.) | $90–$160 | ✓$70–$130 |
✓ indicates advantage in this category. Tie = comparable.
Which Breed Is Right for You?
Choose a Whippet if…
Families or active owners wanting a mid-sized, gentle, durable sighthound that is wonderful with children and other dogs.
Choose a Italian Greyhound if…
Apartment owners wanting a tiny, ultra-low-shedding sighthound companion with a very long lifespan.
Grooming & Shedding
Whippets have a short, smooth, single-layer coat that sheds minimally and needs only a weekly brush with a soft bristle brush or grooming mitt. They are among the lowest-shedding medium-sized breeds available. Italian Greyhounds have an even finer, shorter coat with near-zero shedding and require almost no grooming effort. Both breeds are excellent for owners wanting minimal coat maintenance. Both also need dog coats or sweaters in cold weather due to their thin skin and lack of insulating undercoat.
Temperament & Family Compatibility
Whippets are gentle, affectionate, and sturdy enough to handle active family life — they are excellent with children and typically sociable with other dogs. Italian Greyhounds are equally loving but far more delicate; their bone structure makes them unsuitable for households with young children or boisterous dogs. Both breeds are calm and quiet indoors. Whippets are more broadly family-compatible; Italian Greyhounds suit gentle adult households or those with calm, older children who understand careful handling. Both breeds have a prey drive and need secure fencing outdoors.
Compare pet insurance for Whippet and Italian Greyhound
Both breeds have different health profiles — find the right coverage level before your first vet visit.
Compare Pet Insurance QuotesFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better with children?
Whippets are significantly better with children. Their sturdier build means they can tolerate normal family play without risk of injury. Italian Greyhounds are too fragile for households with young children — a fall from a child arm or rough play can result in broken bones.
Are both cold-sensitive?
Yes, both breeds are very sensitive to cold weather due to their minimal body fat and thin single coat. Both benefit from dog sweaters or coats in cold climates and should not be left outdoors in cold temperatures. This is especially pronounced in the smaller Italian Greyhound.
Which is calmer indoors?
Both breeds are calm and content indoors after their exercise needs are met. Whippets and Italian Greyhounds are both known for snuggling and resting for most of the day. Neither is a restless, hyperactive breed at home — they save their energy for sprint bursts outdoors.
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