Italian Greyhound vs Whippet
As both Italian greyhound and whippet are two breeds of the same family with similar looks, it is difficult to identify the difference between Italian greyhound and whippet at the first sight. The two dog breeds, Italian greyhound and whippet belong to the same sighthound family. As breeds of sighthound family, as the name suggests, both Italian greyhound and whippet hunt with their sense of sight. This characteristic is different from scent hounds that, as the name implies, hunt with the scents around them. These two sight hounds are great companions at home. Although considered to be great types of domestic dogs, the many differences that exist between Italian Greyhound and Whippet give them each a distinct identity, which are discussed below.
More about Italian Greyhound
Italian greyhound has been considered as the smallest in the sighthound family. Typically weighing about 8-18 lb, they may stand up to about 13-15 inches at the withers. They are considered as happy dogs; it is great to have them in the family since they are naturally playful and active creatures. Considering they belong to the sighthound family, they enjoy running about and, therefore, most owners practice the habit of running or jogging with them. However,owners may need to control the Italian greyhound’s hyperactivity in order to avoid injury.
What is a Whippet?
Whippets, also called a snap dog, are the type of dogs that truly prove that dogs are man’s best friend. Weighing from 15-42 lb, whippets are typically 18 – 22 inches in height. They usually stick by their master’s sides and guard, although they are not very menacing in appearance or nature. Unlike other hounds, this breed prefers to relax and is quiet and intelligent in nature. However, just like any other breed in the family, they are good runners and require regular exercise.
What is the difference between Italian Greyhound and Whippet?
The Italian greyhound is hyperactive and playful while the whippet is of the timid and gentle type. The Italian greyhound loves the outdoors; on the other hand, the whippets love staying at home and can be seen lying down relaxing most of the time. If the family has an Italian greyhound, most likely there is a member of the family who loves outdoors and is physically active. On the other hand, in a home where there is a whippet, there must be a timid member and just loves the company and comfort a whippet can offer. These two breeds of dog differ in behaviour.
Summary:
Italian Greyhound vs Whippet
• Italian greyhound is a miniature breed of greyhound.
• The Italian greyhound is a breed of hyperactive dogs and loves to play while the whippets are shy and relaxed.
• The Italian greyhound (IG) loves outdoors, whippets love staying at home.
• The Italian greyhound might be the dog for the younger and more active people while the whippets are more suitable for companionship of older people.
Photos By: madaise (CC BY-ND 2.0), Sean (CC BY ND 2.0)
Further Reading: