Side by side
Put a few breeds side by side before you make up your mind.
Pick up to four. The URL updates as you go, so you can send this comparison to whoever you are arguing with.
| Breed |  Greyhound |  Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Ancient Egyptian and Greek records depict dogs of Greyhound type, making it one of the oldest breeds in existence. Historically used for hunting by sight across open ground, the breed was refined in Britain for coursing and later track racing, leading to the high numbers of retired ex-racers now seeking homes. | England |
| Group | Hound | Hound |
| Size | Large | Medium |
| Coat | Smooth, short, fine coat in almost any colour including black, white, fawn, blue, red and brindle. | Short, fine, smooth coat with very little undercoat |
| Weight | 26 to 40 kg | 11 to 20 kg |
| Height | 68 to 76 cm | 44 to 51 cm |
| Lifespan | 10 to 14 yrs | 12 to 15 yrs |
| Exercise need | 6/10 | 6/10 |
| Affection | 7/10 | 8/10 |
| Grooming needs | 2/10 | 2/10 |
| Barking | 2/10 | 2/10 |
| Good with children | 7/10 | 7/10 |
| Good with other dogs | 6/10 | 5/10 |
| Trainability | 5/10 | 6/10 |
| Prey drive | 9/10 | 9/10 |
| Copes alone | 6/10 | 4/10 |
| Drool | 1/10 | 1/10 |
| Shedding | 3/10 | 3/10 |
| Flat fit | 9/10 | 7/10 |
| Running cost | €170 / month | €72 / month |
Greyhound verdict
The ancient sofa sprinter: a calm, noble hound built for speed and deep naps.
Get one if
- · Flat dwellers looking for a quiet, low-energy large dog
- · Owners who prefer a dog that is calm and clean indoors
- · People who can provide a secure, fenced area for occasional sprints
Think again if
- · Owners wanting a dog that can reliably be trusted off-lead in open spaces
- · Homes with very small animals where prey drive might be a constant issue
- · Active owners looking for a high-intensity, all-day hiking partner
Whippet verdict
A 35mph sprinter wrapped around a dedicated couch potato, happiest after a short burst of speed followed by hours of sleep.
Get one if
- · Owners with access to securely fenced space for daily off lead sprinting
- · People wanting a calm, quiet indoor companion with minimal grooming needs
- · Households prepared to invest in coats and soft bedding through colder months
Think again if
- · Owners living near livestock or open countryside without secure fencing options
- · Anyone expecting reliable off lead recall around small animals and distractions
- · Households unwilling to invest in winter coats or padded bedding