Whippet Puppies for Sale
Recognized by: AKC, FCI, KC, UKC
About the Whippet
The Whippet is a sleek, gentle sighthound that combines astonishing sprinting speed with a remarkably calm, affectionate temperament at home. Often described as a couch potato that loves to run, the Whippet is quiet, sensitive, and deeply attached to its people, making it a wonderful companion for families and even apartment dwellers. Its short, smooth coat is easy to care for and it rarely barks, but its powerful prey drive means secure fencing and leashed walks are essential around small animals. Given a daily chance to gallop safely, this affectionate, adaptable breed settles happily into a relaxed household routine and asks for little fuss.
Every dog is an individual — genetics, socialization, health, training, and environment matter more than breed averages.
Typical tendencies
Scored against PuppyList’s editorial rubric. Tendencies, not guarantees.
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Where this breed shines
- Quiet, gentle, and calm indoors, well suited to apartments
- Short coat needs minimal grooming
- Affectionate and generally friendly with people and other dogs
Things to consider
- Strong prey drive requires secure fencing and leashed walks
- Thin coat and low body fat make it sensitive to cold weather
- Needs regular opportunities to run and sprint safely
History
The Whippet was developed in nineteenth-century England, where working-class enthusiasts crossed small greyhounds with terriers and other swift dogs to create a fast, agile companion for rabbit coursing and racing. Nicknamed the poor man's racehorse, it became popular in mining and mill communities. The breed was recognized by the AKC in 1888.
Temperament
Gentle, affectionate, and quiet, the Whippet is devoted to its family and typically friendly toward people and other dogs. It is sensitive and thrives on companionship, disliking harsh handling. Bred to chase, it retains a strong prey drive and instinct to bolt after fast-moving small animals.
Questions to ask a Whippet breeder
- Are the breeding dogs cardiac-evaluated by a veterinary cardiologist?
- Have the parents had OFA eye examinations and BAER hearing testing?
- What is the longevity and health history in your lines?
Health considerations to discuss
Cardiac disease. Educational, non-diagnostic; ask about cardiac evaluation of breeding stock by a veterinary cardiologist
Eye disorders. Educational, non-diagnostic; ask about annual OFA/ophthalmologist eye examinations
Congenital deafness. Educational, non-diagnostic; ask about BAER hearing testing
Informational only — always consult a veterinarian and ask breeders for documentation. Sources: AKC Whippet breed overview · American Whippet Club health information — written by PuppyList editorial
Questions worth asking about any Whippet litter
- Can I see the puppy and its mother — in person or on a live video call?
- What health checks, vaccinations, and vet visits has this litter had?
- How was the litter raised and socialized?
- What paperwork comes with the puppy (health records, registry papers if applicable)?
- What is your deposit, payment, and pickup/transport process?
Frequently asked questions
How do I buy a Whippet puppy on PuppyList?
Browse the Whippet listings on this page, open one to see photos, details, and the breeder's information, then contact the breeder directly. PuppyList is a marketplace — you arrange the purchase with the breeder yourself.
How can I tell if a Whippet breeder is trustworthy?
Contact the breeder, ask for recent photos or a video of the actual puppy, and confirm details before you commit. Never send money before verifying. See our listing guidelines for the full buyer-safety checklist.