The sighthound world boasts some truly majestic breeds, but for those seeking a sleek and speedy companion in a smaller package, the Whippet and Italian Greyhound emerge as top contenders. Often mistaken for one another, these graceful athletes share a Greyhound ancestry, but with key differences that might influence your choice This comprehensive guide dives into the fascinating world of Whippet vs Italian Greyhound, exploring their unique characteristics and helping you decide which miniature sighthound might be your perfect match.
Size Matters: A Tale of Two Sighthounds
The most striking difference lies in size. Whippets, classified as hounds by the American Kennel Club (AKC), stand at 17.5-20 inches tall and weigh between 25-42 pounds. Italian Greyhounds, on the other hand, are members of the toy group, boasting a more diminutive stature of 13-15 inches and a weight range of 8-11 pounds. This size difference translates to varying activity levels and living space requirements.
Built for Speed: The Sighthound Spirit
Both Whippets and Italian Greyhounds possess the classic sighthound physique – lean, muscular bodies built for bursts of incredible speed. Their long legs and deep chests are designed for coursing prey, a natural instinct that might manifest in chasing squirrels or joggers. While both breeds require daily exercise, Whippets, with their larger size, can handle more intense activities like running alongside a bike or participating in lure coursing competitions.
Temperament: Whippet vs Italian Greyhound
Whippets are renowned for their gentle and easygoing nature. They are adaptable to various living situations, making them great companions for families with older children. Italian Greyhounds, while affectionate, can be more fragile due to their smaller size. They might be more cautious around young children and require a calmer environment.
Coat Care: A Short and Sweet Affair
Both breeds boast short, smooth coats that are easy to maintain. Weekly brushing with a hound mitt or soft bristle brush removes loose hair and keeps their coats gleaming. Occasional baths with a gentle dog shampoo can be administered as needed.
Dietary Needs: Fueling Miniature Speedsters
When it comes to nutrition, Whippets and Italian Greyhounds have different needs based on their size and activity levels. Whippets, with their higher energy expenditure, require a high-quality dog food formulated for active breeds. Look for formulas rich in protein and healthy fats to support their athletic bodies. Italian Greyhounds, on the other hand, can be prone to weight gain, so opting for a small breed formula with moderate protein and fat content is crucial. Hollywood Feed Same Day Delivery offers a wide selection of high-quality dog foods specifically designed for Whippets and Italian Greyhounds, ensuring your furry friend receives the optimal nutrition they need to thrive.
Entertainment Essentials: Keeping Sighthounds Stimulated
Whippets and Italian Greyhounds may be small, but their playful spirits require engaging activities. Interactive toys that tap into their natural chasing instincts are ideal. Consider puzzle feeders, lure coursing toys, or balls for chasing. Whippets, with their larger size, might enjoy games of fetch or agility training. Hollywood Feed carries a vast selection of Whippet dog toys and Italian Greyhound dog toys to keep your miniature sighthound entertained and mentally stimulated.
Living with a Sighthound: Whippet vs Italian Greyhound
Both Whippets and Italian Greyhounds are sighthounds, meaning their keen eyesight can trigger a strong prey drive. Secure fencing and leashes are essential during walks to prevent them from bolting after perceived threats. Additionally, Italian Greyhounds, due to their delicate build, require careful handling and supervision around small children.
Who Should Choose a Whippet?
Whippets are a fantastic choice for active individuals or families with older children seeking a loving and playful companion. Their larger size makes them suitable for participating in a wider range of activities and adventures.
Who Should Choose an Italian Greyhound?
Italian Greyhounds are perfect for apartment dwellers or those seeking a cuddly lapdog. Their gentle nature and smaller stature make them well-suited for calmer environments. However, their delicate build requires a more cautious approach, especially around young children.
The Final Chase: Finding Your Perfect Sighthound Companion
Ultimately, the choice between a Whippet and Italian Greyhound boils down to your lifestyle and preferences. Consider your living space, activity level, and family dynamic. Regardless of your choice, both breeds offer a lifetime of love, loyalty, and miniature sighthound elegance.
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Whippets are called the poor man’s greyhound as they have terrier in them. They started off in England.
The Italian Greyhound is an ancient breed and supposedly Frederick the Great kept his IG in his jacket as they hid under a bridge while the enemies rode over them. Italian Grehounds can run 25 mph and whippets are larger and run 35 mph.