Longhaired Whippet: A Full Guide

Longhaired whippets are dogs very similar to whippets but with… you guessed it, longer hair. Longhaired whippets are incredibly similar to regular whippets, only their fur is slightly longer.

They were either developed from the whippet with a long hair gene, or came from whippets mixed with other dogs with the latter being more likely.

Whatever the history, whippets gave these dogs a lot of the same genetical characteristics.

The longhaired whippet’s nature is smart, friendly, affectionate, and energetic, and their physical activity requirements are about the same as that of a regular whippet.

Apart from that, grooming longhaired whippets is a rather easy task, and regular brushing is required to remove dead hair and prevent shedding.

A lot of people are familiar with the Whippet breed. This dog is medium-sized and shorthaired, easy to identify due to its lean build which is a signatory for all sighthounds.

Whippets are well known for being energetic and lively dogs of a very similar appearance to their larger cousin, the Greyhound.

But have you ever heard of a Longhaired Whippet?

A lot of people don’t even know of such a breed, only ever hearing of the typical common Whippet.

For those who know nothing or little about the Longhaired Whippet, this article will act as a guide and provide you with all the information you need regarding this stunning dog.

Follow along to find out what a Longhaired Whippet is, their origin, and how to look after one of these dogs and keep them happy and in good form.

Table of Contents

What Is A Longhaired Whippet?

The Longhaired Whippet is a type of sighthound that looks very much like the original Whippet breed.

However, unlike regular Whippets that always have short fur of equal smooth texture on all of their body, Longhaired Whippets have a longer, silky coat.

This dog is of medium size and has a build that is both lean and athletic.

Longhaired Whippets can come in any colour combination and markings. Their appearance resembles very much that of a Borzoi, but one key difference is that Longhaired Whippets are much smaller.

The Longhaired Whippet is not a different variant of the Whippet, but a completely separate breed. Longhaired Whippets are also referred to as Silken Windsprites or Silken Windhounds.

These dogs are rare and not as widespread as the Whippet. Although not yet recognised as an official pedigree breed by the AKC, there are, however, many clubs dedicated to increasing the popularity of the Longhaired Whippet.

Longhaired Whippet History

The history of the Longhaired Whippet is a controversial one as the direct origin of this breed is unclear.

The breed came about in the 1980s by a man named Walter Wheeler who claimed to have found this breed by activating a recessive long-haired gene in the Whippet.

On the other hand, many people claimed that Walter Wheeler, the owner of Windsprite Whippet kennels, had not bred the Longhaired Whippet from regular Whippets, but by crossing Whippets with Shetland Sheepdogs or Borzois.

Despite the real truth of the origin of the Longhaired Whippet being rather indistinct, the Longhaired Whippet is a descendant either partly or fully from the regular Whippet.

It is this uncertainty of how the Longhaired Whippet came about which is the reason behind why the AKC doesn’t recognise this breed.

Living With A Longhaired Whippet

Living with the Longhaired Whippet is a very similar experience to that of living with the shorter-haired Whippet.

Longhaired Whippets are highly energetic dogs that need plenty of physical activity on a daily basis to stay happy.

They are very playful and easy-going dogs, and for that reason can make great companion dogs for children.

As well as that, they are known to be very loving and affectionate dogs that bond closely with their owners and family.

They are also very gentle and respectful dogs, not prone to any behavioural problems or traits such as aggressiveness.

Longhaired Whippets are a breed that is intelligent, obedient, and quick to listen and learn.

For this reason, it is not difficult when it comes to training these dogs. It is true, however, that some individuals may be somewhat stubborn, and can require more time and patience during training.

The Longhaired Whippet does great both as a family dog and a racing dog, as their speed and stamina are excellent when it comes to this activity.

Longhaired Whippet Care And Maintenance

Grooming

Caring for the coat of the Longhaired Whippet is not an extensive task. Despite having double coats which are noticeably longer than that of the typical Whippet, Longhaired Whippets are relatively easy to groom.

In fact, they require a good brushing only once or twice a week to keep their fur in top shape.

Brushing is also important for the reason that these dogs do shed mildly, and this can become quite visible if you do not brush your Longhaired Whippet on a weekly basis. Regular brushing will help remove dead hairs or loose undercoat.

The Longhaired Whippet does not tend to smell, and they do fine with being bathed once a month to keep clean.

Health

Like the Whippet, the Longhaired Whippet is for the most part a healthy dog, and has a lifespan of 12 to 15 years.

However, as a result of having inherited Whippet genes, these dogs are prone to being affected by a few of the same ailments.

This includes epilepsy, deafness, Mitral Valve Disease, certain eye diseases, and a blood condition called Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia.

Longhaired Whippets can also get skin cancer and some skin issues such as dandruff, as well as itching due to allergies.

However, unlike the Whippet, Longhaired Whippets get more skin protection because of their long coat.

Whilst regular Whippets are prone to injuries, cuts, and grazes because of their very short hair, Longhaired Whippets get extra protection from the outside world.

Additionally, Longhaired Whippets receive more warmth from their longer coats.

Physical Activity And Human Interaction

Like the Whippet, Longhaired Whippets need at least an hour of exercise every day to release their excess energy.

A lack of physical activity will only result in restlessness, hyperactivity, and likely destructive behaviour.

These dogs do well with shorter walks spread throughout the day, but also need plenty of space to run free and sniff around.

Additionally, they need to engage in various interactive games and activities to fulfill their mental stimulation needs.

These dogs closely bond with their family and should not be left for more than 4 hours on a daily basis.

Just as in Whippets, lack of adequate human socialisation and companionship could potentially result in separation anxiety.

More About The Longhaired Whippet

Longhaired Whippets are not very different in size and weight than the regular shorthaired Whippet.

Their medium size makes them good dogs for smaller homes, as long as plenty of exercise is provided on a regular basis.

The height of a male Longhaired Whippet is around 18. 5 to 22 inches, whereas the height of the female ranges from 18 to 20 inches.

As for weight, the male Longhaired Whippet weighs in at around 24 to 40 pounds, while the female weighs 20 to 25 pounds.

Longhaired Whippets can come in just about any colour or markings, but some of the most common colour combinations include brindle or pure white, as well as tan, cream, red, black, fawn, often combined with white and/or black.

Whilst some Longhaired Whippets have a coat that is straight and silky, a lot of these dogs can have a rather wavy coat.

Their hair is also longer at the back of their legs, tail, chest, and ears, but short on their face.

Other Considerations

Just like regular Whippets, Longhaired Whippets need proper training and plenty of socialisation at an early age with different dogs, including small ones, as well as other animals.

Why is this so important? It is due to the fact that Longhaired Whippets also have a high prey drive since they have Whippet DNA in them. For this reason, they may chase small animals such as cats or rabbits.

Good training and socialisation with different animals during puppyhood will prevent this behaviour from becoming apparent as adults, especially if you live in a neighbourhood with an abundance of other pets.

Final Thoughts

Longhaired Whippets are very similar to regular Whippets but come with a long, silky coat.

They are great, affectionate family pets, as well as highly active and athletic dogs who love to play and exercise.

Longhaired Whippets are intelligent, lively, and bond closely with their human partner.

They have a playful and loving nature which is perfect for families with children. On the other hand, they need to be accustomed to cats and other animals which they may be prone to chase.

All in all, obtaining one of these outgoing dogs is definitely not disappointing. Longhaired Whippets are not only easy to care for, but also add plenty of joy, fun, and character to the family.