The Training of Whippets. What Every Owner Needs to Know

Whippets are one of those breeds that tend to win people over quietly. They are elegant but unassuming, affectionate but not needy, and incredibly fast without needing constant exercise. Often mistaken for being delicate, Whippets are surprisingly robust, with a calm nature that fits beautifully into a variety of homes.

But like any breed, there is more to the Whippet than meets the eye. Behind those long legs and soft eyes is a dog with very specific needs. Understanding what makes them tick is the key to living happily with a Whippet.

In this spotlight, we are taking a closer look at the Whippet’s temperament, lifestyle needs and what it really takes to raise, train and live with this sleek and sensitive breed.

What is a Whippet Really Like

Whippets are medium-sized sighthounds, built for speed and grace. They share ancestry with Greyhounds and were originally bred for hunting and racing. That background gives them strong instincts to chase and a natural love for sprinting, especially in open spaces.

At home, they are usually quiet and calm. They enjoy curling up in soft spaces, often under blankets or tucked against their people. Their affectionate nature makes them very connected to family life, but they are not usually overbearing.

Whippets are intelligent but can be a little reserved. They often assess situations before responding and are not as immediately biddable as some working breeds. They thrive with gentle leadership, calm consistency and a secure home environment.

Temperament and Behaviour

The typical Whippet temperament is a blend of softness and speed. They are gentle, affectionate and sensitive, but also have strong prey instincts and a love for running.

They are usually good with other dogs and can be very playful when comfortable. Many enjoy zooming around with familiar dogs, especially in secure spaces. They do not tend to seek conflict but may become overwhelmed in chaotic or overly intense environments.

Whippets can be a little shy with strangers or new settings. Socialisation from an early age helps build confidence. Use calm, positive experiences rather than forced exposure.

They do best in homes where the energy is relatively stable. Shouting, heavy-handed handling or unpredictable routines can cause stress or withdrawal.

Training a Whippet

Whippets are more sensitive than stubborn. They respond best to calm, reward-based training that uses gentle guidance rather than pressure. Once trust is established, they can be very responsive and eager to please.

Start with the basics. Focus, recall and loose lead walking are key skills. Because of their natural desire to chase, recall training should begin early and progress carefully. Use long lines in open spaces to practise safely.

They can be a little emotionally sensitive. If training becomes too intense or if they are corrected too firmly, many Whippets will shut down. Keep sessions short, light and positive. You are aiming for engagement, not compliance.

Whippets are not typically driven to work for long periods. Instead of long drills, aim for brief, focused sessions and build habits into daily life. They enjoy routine and predictability.

Social training is also important. Help them learn how to move confidently in busy environments, walk past distractions calmly and settle in public places.

Exercise and Mental Stimulation

Despite their speed, Whippets do not need hours of exercise each day. They are sprinters, not marathon runners. One or two good walks and a short burst of off-lead running in a secure area usually meet their needs.

That said, they do love to run. A secure garden or access to a safe, enclosed space is ideal. Off-lead time should only be given if your recall is reliable or if the space is fully fenced. Their chase drive can override their listening skills in a flash.

Mental stimulation can be simple. Food puzzles, trick training, hide and seek games and gentle scentwork are all great ways to keep them engaged.

Unlike some breeds, Whippets do not usually become destructive out of boredom alone, but they can become anxious or unsettled if left without a routine.

Grooming and Coat Maintenance

Whippets have very short, fine coats that require minimal grooming. A quick brush once or twice a week is usually enough to remove loose hairs and keep the coat in good condition.

Because they have very little body fat and thin skin, they are sensitive to cold and rough surfaces. Many Whippets wear coats or jumpers in winter, not just for fashion but for comfort.

They also benefit from soft bedding and a warm place to sleep. Pressure points like elbows can become sore on hard floors, so giving them plenty of padding is important for long-term comfort.

Routine care should include nail trimming, dental hygiene and ear checks. These dogs are generally low maintenance, but consistency still matters.

Living with a Whippet

Living with a Whippet is often peaceful. They enjoy being close to their people but are rarely clingy. They tend to follow a rhythm of play, rest and sleep, and are usually happiest when they feel secure in their environment.

They are well suited to calm households, whether that is a quiet family, a retired couple or a single person who values connection. They can live in both houses and apartments, provided they get outside for daily movement.

Whippets are usually good with children who understand boundaries. They do not tolerate rough handling and prefer gentle interaction. They also get along with other dogs, though supervision is important if you have small animals in the home due to their prey drive.

They may bark at unfamiliar noises but are not known for being particularly vocal. Their quiet nature makes them easy to live with for many people.

Are Whippets Good for First Time Owners?

Yes, Whippets can be excellent for first time owners who want a calm, affectionate and manageable dog. They are gentle, relatively easy to train and well suited to home life.

However, they are not for everyone. If you are looking for a dog who can be off-lead anywhere, or one who will hike for hours, this breed may not meet your expectations.

Whippets need routine, kindness and clear but soft leadership. They thrive when treated with respect and guided with confidence.

At Paws Academy, we support Whippet owners of all experience levels. Whether you are preparing for a puppy or looking for support with recall and confidence, we offer both virtual and in person consultations.

Health and Care Considerations

Whippets are generally healthy but can be prone to some specific issues. These include dental disease, heart murmurs, sensitive digestion and injuries from knocks or hard landings.

Choose a breeder who tests for inherited conditions and raises puppies in a stable, well managed environment. If you are adopting, ask for health records and support with integration.

Use a harness rather than a collar for lead walking, as their necks are long and delicate. Also take care around sharp objects or hard furniture corners. Their skin can tear more easily than in heavier coated breeds.

Routine vet care, balanced nutrition and gentle exercise are usually all that is needed to keep a Whippet in good health.

Summary. Is the Whippet Right for You?

The Whippet is graceful, affectionate and surprisingly resilient. They are not as intense as many working breeds, but they are not just decoration either. They need thoughtful training, structure and connection.

If you are looking for a gentle, quiet and emotionally tuned-in dog who fits easily into daily life, the Whippet could be exactly what you are after.

They may be fast, but they are also steady. They give back what you give them, and a little effort goes a long way.

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