Whippets are affectionate, elegant, and surprisingly laid-back companions. Whether you’re a first-time Whippet owner or have a house full of snoozing speedsters, this guide answers 50 of the most common questions, with practical advice and product suggestions from Poppy’s Picnic’s award-winning raw dog food range.

General Care and Wellbeing

1. How often should I groom my Whippet?

Whippets have short, fine coats and need only a quick brush once a week to remove loose hairs. Use a soft rubber mitt or grooming glove. A healthy coat starts with a healthy diet 

2. Do Whippets shed a lot?

Whippets are low shedders, but they do lose hair, especially during seasonal changes. 

3. How much exercise does a Whippet need each day?

Despite their athletic build, Whippets need only moderate exercise – two 20–30 minute walks a day and the chance to sprint occasionally in a safe area. Their energy needs are supported by balanced, protein-rich meals like Poppy’s Picnic Beef Meatballs.

4. Are Whippets prone to health problems?

Whippets are generally healthy, but they may be sensitive to anaesthesia and prone to cuts due to their thin skin. 

5. What’s the average lifespan of a Whippet?

Whippets typically live between 12 and 15 years. Their long lifespan is supported by regular vet visits, gentle exercise, and a natural diet. 

6. How often should I bathe my Whippet?

Only every 2–3 months unless they get especially dirty. Whippets don’t produce much oil and rarely smell. 

7. What is the best way to clean a Whippet’s ears?

Check weekly and gently wipe with a dog-safe ear cleaner and cotton pad.

8. How do I know if my Whippet is overweight?

You should be able to see a visible waist and feel their ribs easily. Whippets are naturally lean. Feeding measured portions of Poppy’s Picnic raw meals helps maintain ideal body condition.

Independent trade organisation, UK Pet food, has worked with vets to create a useful sizeometer for dogs so it's easier to track your dog's weight. Download it here 

9. What are the best toys for Whippets?

Whippets enjoy soft toys, squeaky balls, and gentle games of tug. They also love food-based enrichment. Try hiding Poppy’s Picnic meatballs in a puzzle toy for a fun and nutritious challenge.

10. How can I keep my Whippet’s coat shiny and healthy?

Brush weekly and feed a diet rich in natural oils and quality protein. Poppy’s Picnic Complete meals provide all the essential nutrients needed for a glossy, healthy coat.

Behaviour and Temperament

11. Are Whippets good with children?

Yes, they’re gentle and affectionate, but they prefer calm handling. They’re great with older, respectful kids. Mealtime routines using Poppy’s Picnic raw food help create structure and calm interactions between dogs and children.

12. Do Whippets get along with other dogs and pets?

Generally yes, but they may have a strong prey drive. Early socialisation is key. Reward calm introductions with a small piece of Poppy’s Picnic meatball to reinforce good manners.

13. Are Whippets aggressive?

Not at all. They’re peaceful and affectionate by nature. If a Whippet shows aggression, it’s usually due to fear or pain. Support their wellbeing with consistent routines and a gentle diet like Poppy’s Picnic.

14. Why does my Whippet chew everything?

Chewing can be a sign of boredom or stress. Offer safe chews and frozen enrichment like a Kong filled with Poppy’s Picnic raw food to provide mental stimulation.

15. Why is my Whippet so clingy?

Whippets bond deeply with their owners and like to be close. Create independent routines and use calming activities like feeding on a lick mat with Poppy’s Picnic to encourage self-soothing.

16. Can Whippets be left alone during the day?

With training, yes, for up to 3–4 hours. Build up gradually and offer enrichment such as a treat toy filled with Poppy’s Picnic treats

17. Do Whippets bark a lot?

No – they’re usually quiet and reserved indoors. If barking increases, look at their exercise and enrichment levels. Try a calming routine involving sniffing games or scatter feeding with treats.

18. Why is my Whippet digging up the garden?

Digging is uncommon in Whippets but may happen out of boredom or heat. Redirect this energy with enrichment toys or hide a few Poppy’s Picnic treats in a snuffle mat or sandpit.

19. Are Whippets hyper?

They have short bursts of energy but are calm most of the day. Provide brief exercise and food enrichment to help them relax. A post-walk meal of Poppy’s Picnic raw supports this balanced routine.

20. How can I calm down my Whippet?

Use a calm voice, provide structured routines, and avoid overstimulation. Feeding on a slow feeder or lick mat using Poppy’s Picnic can help encourage relaxation through soothing activity.

 

Training and Development

21. Are Whippets easy to train?

Yes, when motivated with positive reinforcement. Keep sessions short and reward with treats for consistent results.

22. What’s the best age to start training a Whippet?

Start at 8 weeks old. For rescues, begin with trust-building. All Poppy’s Picnic products are suitable from 8 weeks, so you can safely use them as high-value training rewards.

23. How can I stop my Whippet from pulling on the lead?

Use a well-fitted harness and reward them for walking at your side. Keep treats like Poppy’s Picnic meatballs handy to reinforce loose-lead walking.

24. Why won’t my Whippet come when called?

Distractions or low recall training can be the cause. Practise in a safe area and reward every return with a high-value treat such as Poppy’s Picnic raw or ambient meatballs.

25. How do I toilet train a Whippet puppy?

Take them out regularly and reward success. Feeding Poppy’s Picnic meals on a schedule helps create a predictable toilet routine.

26. How can I stop my Whippet from jumping up?

Ignore jumping and reward calm behaviour. Ask for a sit and offer a small piece of meatball as a reward.

27. What are the best training commands for a Whippet?

Sit, stay, come, down and wait are all useful. Keep training positive and consistent using Poppy’s Picnic meatballs.

28. Should I crate train my Whippet?

Yes, many enjoy a crate as a cosy den. Use it positively and feed meals inside using Poppy’s Picnic raw to reinforce that the crate is a calm, safe place.

29. How do I handle separation anxiety in my Whippet?

Start with short departures and build up. Use a frozen Kong filled with Poppy’s Picnic raw food to provide calm distraction while you’re gone.

30. How much mental stimulation does a Whippet need?

Not as much as high-drive breeds, but daily enrichment is still important. Hide treats around the house or use puzzle toys to keep their minds active.

 

Health and Breed-Specific Issues

31. Are Whippets prone to hip dysplasia?

It’s less common in Whippets than in larger breeds, but it can occur. Keep them lean and support joint health with a balanced diet. Poppy’s Picnic raw meals provide quality protein and essential nutrients that help maintain muscle and mobility.

32. What are common allergies in Whippets?

Whippets can be sensitive to artificial ingredients and grains. Signs include itchy skin, upset stomachs, or ear issues. Switching to a simple, grain-free raw diet like Poppy’s Picnic can help eliminate irritants and improve overall wellbeing.

33. How often should I take my Whippet to the vet?

Once a year for check-ups and vaccinations is ideal. More often if they’re seniors or have ongoing health conditions. 

34. What’s the best age to neuter or spay a Whippet?

Many vets recommend neutering around 12–18 months, depending on size and development. Always consult your vet. Feeding a nutrient-dense, easily digestible food like Poppy’s Picnic supports recovery after surgery.

35. Do Whippets get ear infections easily?

They’re not especially prone, but regular ear checks are wise. Itching, redness or smell may indicate a problem.

36. What are signs of heart problems in Whippets?

Coughing, fatigue, or shortness of breath are signs to watch for. Annual heart checks are recommended for senior Whippets. A clean, natural diet like Poppy’s Picnic may help support cardiovascular health.

37. Are Whippets more prone to arthritis as they age?

Yes, especially if they’ve been overweight or highly active. Gentle daily walks and joint-supportive food are key. Poppy’s Picnic raw meals naturally contain healthy fats and proteins that can help maintain joint function.

38. What vaccinations does my Whippet need?

Core vaccinations include distemper, parvovirus, hepatitis and leptospirosis. Optional vaccines like kennel cough may be needed depending on lifestyle. Feed a fresh, nutrient-dense diet like Poppy’s Picnic to support immune strength alongside vaccinations.

39. How can I care for my senior Whippet?

Provide soft bedding, shorter walks, and regular vet checks. Older Whippets may prefer food that’s easy to chew and digest – Poppy’s Picnic raw meals can be gently steamed if needed.

40. What’s the difference between Whippets and Italian Greyhounds?

Whippets are larger, calmer and sturdier. Italian Greyhounds are more delicate and energetic. Both thrive on gentle care, cosy routines, and natural, high-quality food like Poppy’s Picnic.

 

Lifestyle and Suitability

41. Are Whippets good for first-time dog owners?

Yes, they’re affectionate, quiet and easy to care for. A structured routine and a wholesome diet like Poppy’s Picnic make them an ideal choice for calm households.

42. Can Whippets live in flats or apartments?

Definitely. They’re relaxed indoors and don’t need much space. Use puzzle feeders and indoor enrichment to keep them content 

43. Do Whippets enjoy swimming?

Some enjoy a splash, but most aren’t natural swimmers. Always supervise and introduce water gently. Bring a towel and a snack to make it a fun, rewarding experience.

44. Are Whippets suitable for people with allergies?

Yes, they’re a great choice. Their short coat and low oil production make them more manageable for allergy-prone households. 

45. Can Whippets be used as therapy or assistance dogs?

Yes, their gentle, affectionate temperament makes them ideal for therapy work. Keeping them well-nourished with Poppy’s Picnic helps maintain steady energy and calm focus for visiting or service tasks.

46. Do Whippets travel well?

Yes – they’re relaxed travellers when provided with comfort and routine. Bring a soft blanket and some portable Poppy’s Picnic meatballs for a familiar snack on the road.

47. What size crate is best for a Whippet?

Usually a 30–36 inch crate depending on their build. It should be tall enough for them to stand and long enough to stretch out. Make it cosy and feed them their Poppy’s Picnic raw meals in the crate to reinforce calmness.

48. How do Whippets handle hot weather?

They’re sensitive to heat and need shade, water and cool walks during warm months. Offer frozen treats like ice cubes made with Poppy’s Picnic bone broth to help them stay hydrated and cool.

49. Are Whippets good hiking companions?

Yes, for short hikes on soft ground. They’re not built for endurance, but they enjoy exploring with their humans. Bring water and a few Poppy’s Picnic ambient meatballs as a trail snack.

50. Can Whippets be trained for agility or obedience competitions?

Absolutely. They’re agile and intelligent, though sometimes a little sensitive. Use positive training methods and high-value rewards like Poppy’s Picnic meatballs to keep them engaged and motivated.