Can You Tell the Difference Between the Italian Greyhound and the Whippet?

Can you identify an Italian Greyhound when you see one?

Know your dogs! Frequently confused breeds. Get the low down on the differences between these similar-looking dogs.

It's difficult to differentiate between these two types of thin dogs. The Whippet and the Italian Greyhound are both categorized in the family of dogs known as sighthounds. They both look like small versions of Greyhounds with slender bodies and narrow heads. To tell them apart, look at the height of their shoulders. Whippets are around five inches taller than Italian Greyhounds.

THE ITALIAN GREYHOUND

The Italian Greyhound is highly slim and barely over a foot tall, however, has all the elegance and sweetness of his taller Greyhound relatives. There is a debate about whether they were primarily reared for chasing hunting small game or meant to be just a companion. Probably, both are valid, as they are adaptable to city and country life. Energetic and shrewd, the Italian Greyhound is mostly simple to train and likes to expend the greater part of his time with his proprietor. They are a dynamic breed that loves to run and play and requires every day strolls.

THE WHIPPET

The Whippet is an English Greyhound in miniature, consequently the layman habitually confusing the two breeds. The Whippet is the quickest tamed animal of his weight, capable for speeds up to 35 m.p.h. An exceptionally adaptable breed, they can show up in a wide assortment of colors and markings.