How Much Should A Healthy Whippet Weigh?

Many of us obsess about our weight since it is drilled into us by television infomercials, health shows, magazines and endless weight loss advertisements.

Healthy weight is determined by height to weight ratio or BMI, body mass index.

An ideal weight is very important for maintaining health for everyone both human and whippet!

Your whippet is considered a medium-sized dog, but they are on the lighter side and sometimes even look a little scrawny or bony. How much should a healthy whippet weigh? At fourteen months, a female whippet should weigh between 22.04lbs (10kg) and 28.66lbs (13kg). A male whippet may weigh 26.46lbs (12kg) to 33.07lbs (15kg).

If you are worried that your whippet is underweight or overweight, look no further. Just as in humans and other breeds, what’s normal for one isn’t necessarily normal weight for another.

Below is some information about a healthy weight for whippets and how to keep your whippet at the best weight for them.

Table of Contents

How Much Should A Whippet Weigh?

The weights given in this section are average weights and depending on the charts, many different weights have been recorded. Your whippet is an individual and unless their weight is drastically off from these numbers, there’s no need to fret.

whippet puppy at 3 months – 9.5lbs (4.3kg) to 12lbs (5.5kg)

whippet puppy at 6 months – 17.6lbs (8kg) to 25.3lbs (11.5kg)

whippet puppy at 1 year – 22lbs (10kg) to 33lbs (15kg)

A whippet will probably reach their full height at six to eight months but will fill out more after that. Whippets should be finished growing between 12 and 14 months. Their weight can range from 25 to 40 pounds and this is for males and females alike.

How To Weigh Your Whippet

Every time you take your whippet puppy and adult to the veterinarian they are weighed. This is to see if they are growing properly and at the average weight for their age and also to make sure they aren’t under or overweight

You are probably wondering how often your whippet should be weighed according to age. Puppies are weighed at the veterinarian every three to four weeks until they’re around six months old.

This is to ensure they are growing properly. An adult whippet will be weighed once a year at their wellness visit.

Sometimes you worry that your little whippet may have lost some weight, as they are already skinny and fragile looking. You might also think they’re starting to pack the pounds on. If you feel you would like to weigh your whippet more often, you can do that right in the comfort of your own bathroom.

If your whippet is a small puppy and you have a baby scale, perfect! Otherwise, a plain old bathroom scale will do, just make sure it’s pretty reliable.

When attempting to weigh your whippet, make sure the scale is on the bare floor. Placing it on a countertop is not a good idea as your pup may fall.

If your whippet is small enough to stand and fit on the scale you may place them right on and check their weight. While holding them, use a light touch so as not to add any extra weight.

If your whippet is too big to fit, first, step on and weigh yourself. Write your weight down and don’t cheat! Then pick up your pup and step on the scale.

Record that weight and simply subtract your weight from the combined weight. Presto! You now have your whippet’s weight!

This weighing method comes in handy in between vet visits especially if your whippet has a medical problem or has been sick and you are concerned about weight gain or loss.

If your scale is unreliable and gives you different readings, most veterinarians will let you and your pup stop in for an occasional weigh-in free of charge. You can also buy pet scales online for around $100.00.

Keep in mind, at home or at the vet, whippets can be intimidated and fearful of scales. Make sure to give them some praise and possibly a treat when their weigh-in is complete.

Factors That Affects A Whippets Weight

There are many factors involved in ensuring that your whippet maintains a healthy weight. Your whippet may never have any problems with weight, either being underweight or overweight so there may never be a need for concern.

Listed below are a few factors that could determine your whippet’s weight.

Diet

Your whippet’s diet affects their weight in big ways. Your pup should always be fed a diet of high-quality dog food containing high protein, good carbohydrates with no fillers, such as bad grains and artificial ingredients.

This food should also be in keeping with their age; puppy, adult or senior. They will need different amounts of vitamins and minerals during different stages of their life.

how much should a healthy whippet weigh? — Image: Monika Fabisiak

Supplements may also be needed if your whippet is not getting enough nutrients or has any medical conditions. Consult your veterinarian with any questions you have about food and nutrition.

Limit snacks for your pup. Snacks are just supposed to be a treat not most of their calories in a day.

Many dog treats have absolutely no nutritional value and include many ingredients that are just plain bad for your pup. Shop around and look for a treat that has good nutritious ingredients.

Exercise

Of course, your whippet needs plenty of exercise to keep them healthy. This will keep any added weight off and help them to stay at a perfect weight for their build and age group.

Being that “you can’t have too much of a good thing,” yes you can. Although exercise is great, if you find that you and your whippet are racing and running and they are losing weight, cut back a bit or give them some extra quality calories.

Whippets need their rest and also time to be couch potatoes!

Stress

Just as in humans, stress can be a big factor determining weight, especially weight loss in whippets. If you have moved to a new home, had a baby, introduced a new pet or if there are personal issues in your home that are causing some turmoil, then this can “upset the apple cart.”

When there are stressful circumstances all around, people sometimes lose their appetite and can’t eat. The same goes for your whippet as they are very sensitive especially to those around them.

Gastrointestinal

There is a whole laundry list of gastrointestinal issues that could affect your whippet, causing them a loss of appetite, vomiting or diarrhoea and in turn weight loss.

Some can be caused by parasites; roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, tapeworms. Most of these should not be an issue because puppies are wormed but some of these can be caused by eating disgusting things outside that you may not be aware of.

A faecal sample is generally required at every vet visit and this is a way to diagnose these parasites.

Some other gastrointestinal problems can be giardia, chronic colitis, ulcers, parvoviral enteritis and exocrine pancreatic insufficiency to name a few. Make an appointment with your pup’s vet if your pup is not eating, losing weight and if you suspect an illness.

Infections

Some infections like distemper, rabies, and parvo can cause weight loss. These, however, are all preventable with vaccinations.

Dental Problems

Any dental issue especially if it’s causing pain can inhibit your whippet from eating.

Endocrine Disorders

Whippets can suffer from hypothyroidism and sometimes Addison’s disease which both can affect weight.

Kidney Disease, Heart Disease & Cancer

These three diseases can have drastic effects on your whippet’s weight. Unfortunately, the leading cause of death in senior whippets is heart failure.

Even though you wouldn’t think that dental care could affect your pup’s heart, it can. This is why brushing and good dental hygiene is a must. Gum infections can spread, affecting and damaging the heart.

Obesity In Whippets

Obesity is a big problem in whippets. Although they need exercise, they are also just as happy to lounge on the couch and if this is something you’re fond of too, it’s not good for your health or theirs. Exercise is needed for good health.

Treats are nice, but just that; a treat, not most of their diet. If your pup has put on a few pounds, lay off the treats and make sure only healthy treats are offered.

Even regular fruits and vegetables are a great choice, in moderation. Check with your vet first because some fruits and vegetables are not safe for dogs.

It may also be tempting to give your whippet pretzels, chips, pizza crusts when you are snacking and they are staring with those pleading eyes, but this is a no-no.

Excess weight on your whippet can cause so many health problems; heart disease, joint problems, digestive and metabolic disorders and many more.

Other Considerations

Whether underweight or overweight, neither is good for your whippet. Keep your whippet healthy with a nutritious diet and some great fun exercise.

If you have any concerns at all about your pup’s weight don’t hesitate to contact their veterinarian.

Final Thoughts

Your whippet is your best bud and you want them to be around for years to come. All of these healthy suggestions are good for your whippet and you too.

Healthy food is a plus and try shaking up the exercise. Don’t be afraid of trying something new and different with your whippet like hiking or frisbee for some exciting adventures.

The one thing to never forget that is number one on the heath list; always add love!