Whippet Growth & Weight Chart
Veterinarian
Whippets are loved for their grace, speed, and gentle demeanor, making them perfect family companions. Known for being both swift runners and couch potatoes, Whippets can sprint up to 35 miles per hour but are equally content lounging around. Their loving, laid-back personality and sleek, athletic build have made them increasingly popular among dog lovers.
If you're raising a Whippet, understanding their growth patterns is essential for ensuring they stay healthy throughout their life. This guide explores Whippet's growth and weight and covers common questions, such as how much to feed a puppy and other useful information.
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Table of Contents:
Male Whippet Growth & Weight Chart
As male Whippets grow from puppies to full-sized adults, they go through distinct stages of growth. Below is a general growth chart that highlights the expected weight and height ranges as they age:
Age | Weight (lb.) | Height (in.) |
|---|---|---|
3 months | 13-17 | 12-14 |
6 months | 25-28 | 18-20 |
9 months | 30-34 | 20-22 |
12 months | 33-37 | 21.5-23.5 |
2 years | 35-40 | 21.5-24 |
3 years | 35-40 | 21.4-24 |
Male Whippets grow rapidly in the first year, typically reaching their full height by 12 months. Afterward, they may continue to fill out, gain muscle, and reach their final adult weight by 2 to 3 years of age.
Female Whippet Growth & Weight Chart
Female Whippets tend to be slightly smaller than their male counterparts. Below is a growth chart showing female Whippets' average weight and height as they age.
Age | Weight (lb.) | Height (in.) |
|---|---|---|
3 months | 11-15 | 11-13 |
6 months | 20-25 | 15-17 |
9 months | 25-29 | 17-19 |
12 months | 28-32 | 18.5-20.5 |
2 years | 30-35 | 18.5-21 |
3 years | 30-35 | 18.5-21 |
Like males, female Whippets grow most rapidly within the first year. By the age of 12 months, they will reach their adult height, and their weight will continue to stabilize over the next year or two. Attention to muscle development during this period is key, as female Whippets should remain lean but strong.
When do Whippets stop growing?
Whippets generally stop growing in height between 12 and 15 months. By this point, males and females will have reached their full adult height. However, Whippets continue to gain muscle and refine their overall body structure until they are around two years old, especially regarding muscle mass and weight distribution.
Understanding the difference between weight and muscle gain is crucial. While their height remains the same after 12 months, you might notice more muscle definition and a slightly higher weight as they mature. Whippets are naturally lean, so any weight gain should come primarily from muscle rather than fat. Monitoring your Whippet's development closely will help ensure they grow into a healthy adult.
How much bigger will my Whippet get?
If your Whippet is under 12 months old, they are likely still growing, particularly in height. After reaching their adult height, their weight will continue to increase as they fill out with muscle. Male Whippets will weigh between 35 and 40 pounds at full size, while females typically weigh between 30 and 35 pounds.
If your Whippet is already 12 months old or older, they might still gain a bit of weight, but they have likely reached their adult height. It's also important to adjust their exercise and diet as they grow to ensure they maintain a healthy weight.
What is the size of a full-grown Whippet?
A fully grown male Whippet stands between 21.5 to 24 inches tall and weighs between 35 to 40 pounds. Female Whippets are slightly smaller, standing at around 18.5 to 21 inches tall and weighing 30 to 35 pounds. These dimensions make Whippets medium-sized dogs known for their sleek and elegant appearance.
Despite their size, Whippets are known for their impressive athleticism, capable of short bursts of extreme speed thanks to their lean, muscular bodies. The combination of lightweight and muscular build allows Whippets to excel in agility and sprinting activities, making them popular in dog sports like lure coursing and racing.
How do I make sure my Whippet is healthy?
Ensuring your Whippet's health requires careful attention to their diet, exercise, and regular veterinary care. Below, we'll explore each aspect in detail.
Balanced diet
Whippets require a high-protein diet to support their muscle development and energy levels. As an active breed, they need the right balance of nutrients to maintain their sleek, lean physique without gaining excess fat. Consult your vet for recommendations based on your dog's age, weight, and activity levels.
Additionally, monitor the quantity and quality of food you're providing. Overfeeding can lead to weight issues, while underfeeding may prevent proper muscle development. Choose high-quality dog food with lean proteins, and avoid table scraps that could unbalance their diet.
Exercise
Whippets are known for their bursts of energy but are generally low maintenance in terms of exercise. Daily walks and occasional sprints in a secure area will keep them physically and mentally stimulated. While they love to run, Whippets also appreciate downtime, making them a great choice for homes that can offer both relaxation and physical activity.
Veterinary check-ups
Regular vet visits are essential for tracking your Whippet's growth and health. During these visits, vets provide routine vaccinations, check their dental health, and monitor any potential issues like joint problems or digestive concerns. Discuss your Whippet's unique needs with your vet, especially as they mature. Dental care is critical since neglected teeth can lead to health problems down the line.
Before you first visit your local vet, we recommend purchasing pet insurance.
Pet insurance gives you a financial safety net in case of any required medical treatment for unexpected health issues in dogs, like injuries and illnesses, many of which can cost thousands of dollars. With pet insurance, you will be reimbursed for a portion of the money you may pay out-of-pocket on veterinary service for covered conditions.
Add-on wellness plans are also available to help with the vet visit costs of preventive pet care, including flea/tick prevention, spay or neutering, and so much more.
How do you know which plan is right for you and your Whippet? Pawlicy Advisor offers you customized policy recommendations that help you protect your pup’s health and save money over their lifetime.
Watch their weight
Because Whippets have a naturally slim physique, ensure they maintain a healthy weight without being too thin or overweight. Use a growth chart as a reference and weigh your Whippet regularly to ensure they are on track. Adjust their diet and exercise routine as necessary, but always consult your vet if you notice unusual weight changes.
Mental stimulation
Whippets are intelligent dogs that benefit from mental challenges. Puzzle toys, obedience training, and interactive games help keep them mentally engaged. This is particularly important for a breed that can be quite independent, as boredom can lead to behavioral problems.
Final thoughts
Whippets are wonderful dogs that combine speed, grace, and affection in one sleek package. Now that you understand their growth patterns, you can ensure your Whippet develops into a healthy adult. With proper care, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and veterinary attention, your Whippet will thrive both as a loyal companion and a spirited athlete.
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Veterinarian
Ricky Walther, DVM, is a small animal general practitioner in the greater Sacramento, California area. Realizing the positive financial and medical impact that pet insurance can provide for pet parents and the profession, he lends support and advice to companies like Pawlicy Advisor "The Pet Insurance Marketplace") that simplify the process of connecting with veterinary financing resources.
