Breed matchup

Italian Greyhound vs Whippet

Interactive head-to-head—swap sides, filter traits, and see who edges each lifestyle score before you read the full guides.

Italian Greyhound

Whippet

Italian Greyhound

small · Italy

Whippet

medium · England

Head-to-head

Italian Greyhound vs Whippet

Derived comparison from breed profiles: Both land in a similar moderate energy band. Whippet scores higher with kids (5/5 vs 3/5). Shedding levels are similar. Small sighthound with a delicate appearance. Medium-sized sighthound built for speed.

small vs medium

Energy 3 vs 3

short vs short

12-15 years · 12-15 years

Biggest differences

Weight

7-14 lbs

25-40 lbs

Height

13-15 inches

18-22 inches

Lifespan

12-15 years

Monthly cost*

$50–$100

$70–$130

*Typical ownership cost band estimate—not a quote.

Lifestyle scores

Tap a trait for context. Filter by what matters most to you.

Temperament

Typical breed leanings—individuals vary.

Italian Greyhound

Small sighthound with a delicate appearance. Overall, Italian Greyhounds are described as gentle, affectionate, intelligent, alert. Trainability sits around 5/5 and bark tendency around 5/5, so consistent positive training usually pays off quickly.

Gentle

Affectionate

Intelligent

Alert

Whippet

Medium-sized sighthound built for speed. Overall, Whippets are described as gentle, quiet, affectionate, intelligent. Trainability sits around 5/5 and bark tendency around 2/5, so consistent positive training usually pays off quickly.

Gentle

Quiet

Affectionate

Intelligent

Care side by side

Grooming, exercise, and training at a glance.

Italian Greyhound

Moderate energy requiring daily walks and playtime.

Whippet

Moderate energy requiring daily walks and occasional runs.

Who should choose which?

Use this as a shortlist—then meet dogs and read full guides.

Choose Italian Greyhound

Choose a Italian Greyhound if you want a small dog with moderate energy, kids fit moderate, and apartment fit excellent. Temperament leans gentle and affectionate.

Choose Whippet

Choose a Whippet if you prefer medium size, moderate energy, kids fit excellent, and apartment fit moderate. Traits include gentle and quiet.

Still deciding?

Take the lifestyle match quiz or open both breed guides for first-year costs, health screening, and adopter questions.

FAQs

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

Which is better for apartments, Italian Greyhound or Whippet?

Italian Greyhound is the stronger apartment candidate (5/5).

Which is better with kids, Italian Greyhound or Whippet?

Whippet scores higher with kids (5/5). Supervision still matters.

How do Italian Greyhound and Whippet compare on energy?

Italian Greyhound: 3/5 (moderate). Whippet: 3/5 (moderate). Match the higher-energy breed only if you can meet exercise needs daily.

References

This comparison summarizes publicly available breed-standard and veterinary education sources. Always consult your veterinarian for individual care, and meet dogs in person before deciding.