Side-by-side comparison of two popular breeds — temperament, exercise, grooming, lifespan and common health issues. Use it to decide which breed fits your home.
The Italian Greyhound (3.5–5 kg, 14–16 years) and the Whippet (8–18 kg, 12–15 years) sit in different — or sometimes overlapping — corners of dog ownership. Here's how they really compare for an everyday Irish or UK family.
Both breeds have similar energy demands — Whippet tips slightly higher but neither is a couch dog.
Insurance premiums for breeds with brachycephalic, joint or cancer predispositions run 20–40% above average — check before you commit. We have a free quote calculator here.
 Italian Greyhound |
 Whippet |
|
|---|---|---|
| Group | Toy | Hound |
| Origin | Italy / Mediterranean | England |
| Weight | 3.5–5 kg | 8–18 kg |
| Height | 33–38 cm | 44–56 cm |
| Lifespan | 14–16 years | 12–15 years |
| Energy level | ||
| Trainability | ||
| Grooming needs | ||
| Good with kids | ||
| Good with other pets | ||
| Hypoallergenic | ||
| Watchdog instinct | ||
| Novice-owner OK |
Italian GreyhoundAffectionate, sensitive, gentle. Bonded with one or two people.
45 minutes of daily exercise plus a short sprint.
Smooth coat, weekly brush, near-zero shedding.
Patellar luxation. Periodontal disease. Leg fractures (fragile bones — protect from jumping). Epilepsy.
Full Italian Greyhound profile →
WhippetGentle, sweet, sensitive, quiet. Whippets are velcro-dogs with their family, calm with strangers and tolerant of children. High prey drive towards small animals.
60 minutes of daily exercise — two short walks plus a sprint.
Short fine coat, weekly brush. They feel cold — most need a coat in winter.
Generally a healthy breed. Watch for: hereditary deafness, eye conditions, anaesthesia sensitivity, dental disease. Lifespan often 14+.
Full Whippet profile →Apartment dwellers, retirees, allergy-sensitive owners.
Apartment-friendly families, owners home a lot, allergy-tolerant.
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