Whippet health problems and breed care 

Whippets are often thought of as small greyhounds, and while there are lots of similarities in their personalities and health problems, they are different a different breed. The whippet temperament is kind and loving and they’re generally calm dogs who turn into speed machines when let loose to run and play.

Here’s a quick look at their breed profile.

When considering how long whippets live, it's important to know they’re a generally healthy breed, and most live upwards of twelve years, an excellent age for medium size dogs. This long lifespan is related to the fact that whippet health problems are few in number.  

#Common health issues in Whippets

Common whippet health problems include heart murmurs, immune mediated conditions and skin injuries. Whippets are a healthy breed, so try not to let their list of health problems put you off enjoying all that this breed has to offer.

##Physical issues

Whippets are graceful, delicate and move with speed, but their slender frame and rapid speed abilities can expose them to injury. Cuts, wounds or foot pad injuries are seen more commonly as their skin is fragile with minimal hair protection.

Their thin coat can also leave them feeling a little chilly in the autumn and winter. Using a coat when out on walks, and using bedding or a jumper at home, can help keep them warm.  

Some Whippet bloodlines carry the genes for deafness and there’s no cure for this. When buying a puppy, make sure the parents have been tested and shown to not carry the gene. If you already have your puppy, know that many deaf dogs can live happily with adaptations to their lives, such as using sign language for training and commands.

##Stomach Issues

Whippets rarely get sensitive stomachs. What they are susceptible to is a condition called Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus (GDV for short). This is a life-threatening medical emergency where the stomach swells and twists on itself. Surgery is the only treatment and sadly not all dogs who suffer a GDV will survive.

##Skin issues and allergies

Whippet skin conditions are a little unusual compared to other breeds. Due to their anxious personalities, they can develop a condition called Acral Lick Granuloma. This is where they over groom or lick a particular area causing a painful open sore. Sometimes this can be related to sore joints, but mostly is separation anxiety induced.  

Corns (areas of thickened skin) on the paw pads are common, and very difficult to treat. Some need surgery to remove, and the problem can return. Some whippets need boots for exercise to add an extra layer of protection.  

Whilst Whippets aren’t hypoallergenic, Whippet dogs are low shedders. This makes them a good choice for people who are sensitive to dog dander.

##Medical problems

Whippets can have heart problems, specifically Mitral Valve Disease. This is a problem with the heart valves and is progressive. There are medications that can help treat Mitral Valve Disease, and your dog will need regular heart scans to know when to start or add extra heart medications to increase their lifespan.  

Whippets are prone to immune mediated disease. This is where the body gets confused and turns its defensive mechanisms inwards and starts to attack cells in the body. This leads to signs of illness.

Immune Mediated Haemolytic Anemia is prevalent in Whippets. The body attacks the red blood cells, reducing their number dramatically. Signs we may notice are pale or yellow gums, lack of energy and even collapse. This condition can be treated, but dogs are prone to relapses and can need lifelong medication to control the disease.

#Caring for a Whippet

Caring for a Whippet is easy compared to most other breeds. They’re low maintenance for grooming, easy to train and exercise exhausts the mind and body effectively. What's not to love!

##Diet and nutrition tips

As Whippets can get GDV, it's really important to feed two meals a day, and not to feed one hour before or after exercise. If you feed in this window your Whippet is statistically more likely to suffer a twisted stomach.  

Whippet nutrition is fairly straightforward. Choose a nutritionally balanced diet, knowing they’re very open to most diet and brand types.

If considering supplements, joint and skin supplements can be helpful. Whippets have a high impact on their joints due to the speeds they reach, so using a joint supplement can help to support joint structure and mobility. As their skin is delicate and tears easily, using a skin supplement rich in Omega oils can help support the skin barrier function.

##Training and exercise tips

Training a Whippet is easy if you start early in life – that’s because they’re intelligent and keen to please. Keep sessions short and varied to engage both body and mind.

Once trained, Whippets need a lot of exercise, at least one hour per day, every day.

Have you ever wondered how fast a Whippet can run? Well, they’re actually the fastest breed for their size, reaching speeds of up to 35 miles per hour! It's easy to see how injuries can happen when running this fast, so always check your Whippets feet and legs after a walk or play session.

##Grooming tips

Whippets are low maintenance in the grooming department. A light brush once a week is enough to keep their coat sparkling. As they have delicate skin, use a soft brush.  

Whippets are active, so overgrown nails can get caught easily. Check their nails at 6-8 week intervals to see if they need trimming. Read our guide on cutting dog's nails.

#Conclusion

Whippets don’t experience many health problems, and they’re considered a healthy breed. Their loving personality, and calm nature makes them the perfect choice for families and first-time pet owners. Their superpower lies in their ability to be very active when out on a walk, then curl up peacefully at home to enjoy the hum of day-to-day life around them.