What is the difference between a Italian Greyhound and a Whippet?

The Italian Greyhound is 7–14 lbs, 13–15 in sized while the Whippet is 25–40 lbs, 18–22 in sized. They differ in size (7–14 lbs, 13–15 in vs 25–40 lbs, 18–22 in), lifespan (14–15 years vs 12–15 years), and care requirements.

Which breed is better with kids, Italian Greyhound or Whippet?

Italian Greyhound is not typically good with kids. Whippet is generally good with kids.

Which breed lives longer, Italian Greyhound or Whippet?

The Italian Greyhound has a lifespan of 14–15 years while the Whippet has a lifespan of 12–15 years.

Italian Greyhound vs Whippet — Breed Comparison

About the Italian Greyhound

The Italian Greyhound — a miniaturized version of the Greyhound — has been a prized companion of nobility for over 2,000 years, favored by the likes of Frederick the Great, Queen Victoria, and Catherine the Great. Standing 13–15 inches tall and weighing just 7–14 pounds, this dainty sighthound has a short, satiny coat in shades of fawn, cream, red, blue, black, and various combinations — always with an elegant, high-stepping gait that exudes refinement. Their slender, graceful build and deer-like appearance make them one of the most aesthetically striking toy breeds.

Temperament & Personality

Italian Greyhounds are affectionate, playful, and surprisingly mischievous — alternating between bursts of zoomie energy and hours of burrowing under blankets for warmth. They bond intensely with their owners and can be clingy — often insisting on being held, carried, or curled up in their person's lap. While sweet with family, they tend to be reserved or shy around strangers and may tremble when overstimulated or anxious.

Pros

Elegant, low-shedding coat that produces minimal dander — suitable for many allergy sufferers
Compact size and moderate exercise needs make them ideal apartment companions
Deeply affectionate and bonded to their owners — devoted lapdogs
Long lifespan of 14–15 years with proper care and dental maintenance

Cons

Extremely fragile bones — leg fractures are common, especially in puppies and young adults
Among the most difficult small breeds to housebreak — many owners resort to indoor potty solutions
Sensitive to cold — requires sweaters, coats, and warm sleeping arrangements year-round
Prone to severe dental disease — often require multiple tooth extractions by middle age

Searching for an elegant, loving companion in a tiny package? Browse Italian Greyhounds on Puplister.

About the Whippet

The Whippet was developed in Victorian England by coal miners and mill workers who bred small Greyhounds with terriers to create an affordable racing and rabbit-coursing dog — earning the nickname "the poor man's racehorse." These elegant sighthounds stand 18 to 22 inches tall and weigh 25 to 40 pounds, with a streamlined, aerodynamic build capable of reaching speeds up to 35 miles per hour. Their short, smooth coat comes in virtually any color or pattern and lies close to the body, accentuating their graceful, muscular contours.

Temperament & Personality

Whippets are gentle, quiet, and remarkably calm indoors — often spending hours draped elegantly across furniture in poses that would make a greyhound proud. They are affectionate and sensitive with their families, good with children (though their slender build makes them vulnerable to rough play), and generally friendly with other dogs. Despite their sprinting ability, Whippets are surprisingly low-energy at home and are often described as the ideal apartment dog for owners who enjoy outdoor exercise.

Pros

Extremely calm and quiet indoors — one of the most unobtrusive housemates
Short, low-maintenance coat with minimal shedding and no doggy odor
Gentle, affectionate nature — rarely aggressive toward people or other dogs
Healthy breed with a long lifespan of 12 to 15 years

Cons

Intense prey drive — will chase and potentially catch small animals including cats
Thin skin and low body fat make them sensitive to cold and prone to scrapes
Cannot be trusted off-leash in unfenced areas — once they run, they cannot hear you
Susceptible to anesthesia sensitivity and cardiac arrhythmias

Whippets are the perfect blend of couch companion and outdoor athlete — find one looking for a home on Puplister.

Italian Greyhound vs Whippet