How Fast Do Whippets Run?

If you’ve ever seen a Whippet let loose on the beach or race across an open field, you’ll know they move like a whisper in the wind—gone in a blur of legs and ears.

So just how fast can a Whippet run?

The Numbers: Just How Fast Are We Talking?

Whippets can reach speeds of up to 35 miles per hour (or around 56 km/h). That’s faster than most other dog breeds, and not far behind their bigger cousins, the Greyhounds, who top out around 45 mph.

In fact, Whippets are the fastest dog breed for their size. They’re lightweight, aerodynamic, and built for speed. That’s why they earned the nickname “the poor man’s racehorse” in the early 20th century.

And it’s not just about their legs…

What Makes Whippets So Quick?

There are a few reasons why your Whippet can outrun you in the blink of an eye:

1. A Naturally Aerodynamic Shape

Their slim build, long legs, and narrow waists give them less air resistance and more power per stride.

2. Flexible Spines

Like Greyhounds, Whippets have incredibly flexible spines, which allow for a “double suspension gallop”—meaning all four paws leave the ground twice in a full stride cycle. That's serious movement.

3. Muscle Where It Matters

Despite their lean look, Whippets are strong. Their back legs act like springs, helping them leap forward with each stride. Some even inherit specific genes that give them extra muscle mass (though more doesn’t always mean better performance).

Were Whippets Bred for Speed?

Yes. Whippets were originally bred for hunting small game—mainly rabbits—by sight and speed. That’s why they fall into the sighthound group, alongside Greyhounds, Salukis, Borzois and Italian Greyhounds. They’re hardwired to see movement and chase, which is why even the laziest couch-loving Whippet can suddenly turn into a blur at the sight of a squirrel.

Is Running Safe for Whippets?

Generally, yes—as long as they’re healthy and you build up their fitness gradually. Whippets love short bursts of sprinting, but they’re not natural marathon runners. Think sprinter, not jogger.

Some tips:

• Avoid full-speed runs on hard surfaces (grass is better)

• Don’t let them off-lead in unsafe areas (Whippets are known to ignore recall when chasing)

• Make sure they’ve had a gentle warm-up

• Always check their paws and muscles post-run

  
  

And afterwards? You’ll probably find them back under a blanket for a long nap.

It’s in Their Blood

Running is part of a Whippet’s joy in life. It connects them to their instincts, their history, and quite frankly—makes them feel fantastic. Whether it’s a sprint across the field or a wobbly zoomie in the living room, those fast feet are pure Whippet magic. Let them run. Just make sure they’ve got the safe space, the rest, the fuel, and the comfort to go with it.