Whippet vs Poodle
Discover the differences between Whippet and Poodle to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Whippet
Graceful, affectionate, and gentle, this breed loves relaxing indoors as much as sprinting outdoors. Known for their sweet nature, Whippets make calm, loyal companions.
Poodle
Elegant, intelligent, and highly trainable, this breed stands out for its lively spirit and loyal companionship. Their hypoallergenic coat and playful personality make them ideal family pets.
Quick comparison
Medium
13–15 kg
Short, smooth
12–15 years
11–13 kg
Moderately active
Medium
20–32 kg
Curly, dense
12–15 years
18–27 kg
High energy
Personality & behavior
Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.
Whippet
Gentle, sociable, and enjoys human companionship
Quick learner, responds well to training
Active but content with moderate exercise
Enjoys games and interactive activities
Adjusts well to various living environments
Poodle
Warm and sociable with family and guests
Highly intelligent and quick to learn commands
Needs regular activity and enjoys exercise
Loves games and interactive playtime
Easily adjusts to new environments and routines
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
Whippet
Heart disease, eye problems
Poodle
Hip dysplasia, Addison’s disease
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Whippet
Good option
Whippets are gentle and easy to train, but sensitive to harsh correction.
Highly suitable
Their quiet nature and moderate size make them well-suited for apartments.
Perfect fit
They enjoy regular exercise and thrive with active owners.
Suitable with supervision
They are gentle but can be startled by unpredictable young children.
Generally compatible
Whippets usually get along with other dogs but may chase smaller pets.
Not ideal
Whippets dislike being alone for extended periods and may develop anxiety.
Poodle
Great choice
Intelligent and eager to please, Poodles are easy for beginners to train and manage.
Highly suitable
Poodles adapt well to apartment life if given daily exercise and mental stimulation.
Perfect fit
Their energy and love for activity make them great companions for active households.
Very friendly
Poodles are gentle and patient with children when socialized from a young age.
Gets along well
Poodles usually coexist peacefully with other pets, especially if socialized early.
Prone to anxiety
Poodles can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods regularly.
Breed strengths
What each breed excels at and their best qualities
Whippet
- Gentle and affectionate with family
- Low grooming needs due to short coat
- Quiet and rarely barks excessively
- Adaptable to apartment living
- Excellent sprinting and athletic ability
Poodle
- Highly intelligent and easy to train
- Hypoallergenic coat reduces shedding
- Strong bond with family members
- Adaptable to various living environments
- Excellent performance in canine sports
Challenges & considerations
Potential challenges and considerations for each breed
Whippet
- Prone to separation anxiety when left alone
- Sensitive to cold temperatures
- High prey drive towards small animals
- Can be stubborn during training
- Requires daily exercise to prevent restlessness
Poodle
- Requires regular professional grooming
- Prone to separation anxiety if left alone
- Needs daily mental and physical stimulation
- Can be reserved with unfamiliar people
- Susceptible to certain genetic health issues
Ready to choose your perfect breed?
Learn more about each breed or compare other breeds to find the perfect match for your lifestyle.
Discover more helpful tools
Make use of our other free tools to get the most out of your pet experience