Saluki vs Whippet

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.

Saluki vs Whippet — at a glance

The Saluki (18–27 kg, 10–17 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.

Energy levels are well-matched between the Saluki and Whippet — both need similar daily exercise.

Both have manageable grooming routines — the Saluki demands slightly more, but neither needs daily fuss.

For a first-time owner, the Whippet is much more forgiving than the Saluki.

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.

	Saluki	Whippet
Group	Hound	Hound
Origin	Middle East	England
Weight	18–27 kg	8–18 kg
Height	58–71 cm	44–56 cm
Lifespan	10–17 years	12–15 years
Energy level
Trainability
Grooming needs
Good with kids
Good with other pets
Hypoallergenic
Watchdog instinct
Novice-owner OK

Saluki

Temperament

Reserved, sensitive, deeply bonded to family. Aloof with strangers. Quiet indoors but exceptional athletes outdoors.

Exercise

60+ minutes daily including off-lead sprinting. Built for desert distance running.

Grooming

Smooth coat: weekly brush. Feathered: 2–3× weekly with attention to ears + tail.

Health

Generally healthy. Watch for: cardiac issues, hypothyroidism, hemangiosarcoma, anaesthesia sensitivity (sighthounds metabolise drugs differently — vet must know).

Full Saluki profile →

Whippet

Temperament

Gentle, sweet, sensitive, quiet. Whippets are velcro-dogs with their family, calm with strangers and tolerant of children. High prey drive towards small animals.

Exercise

60 minutes of daily exercise — two short walks plus a sprint.

Grooming

Short fine coat, weekly brush. They feel cold — most need a coat in winter.

Health

Generally a healthy breed. Watch for: hereditary deafness, eye conditions, anaesthesia sensitivity, dental disease. Lifespan often 14+.

Full Whippet profile →

Which is right for you?

Pick the Saluki if

Quiet, experienced owners with secure fencing + commitment to daily running.

Pick the Whippet if

Apartment-friendly families, owners home a lot, allergy-tolerant.

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Saluki vs Whippet