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Rhodesian Whippet Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Rhodesian Whippet so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Designer Dogs
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OriginEngland flagEngland Zimbabwe flagZimbabwe
Breed Classification
What type of dog breed is a Rhodesian Whippet? Learn about its genetic classification and breeding category.
Cross Breed Rhodesian Ridgeback and Whippet mix

Rhodesian Whippet Size and Weight

Size Classification
What size category is a Rhodesian Whippet? Learn how big the Rhodesian Whippet breed typically grows.
LargeMedium
Weight Statistics
How much does a Rhodesian Whippet weigh? Discover typical weight ranges for adult males and females of the Rhodesian Whippet breed.
40-75 pounds (18-34 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a Rhodesian Whippet?
57.5 pounds (26 kg)
Height
How tall is the Rhodesian Whippet? Rhodesian Whippet height:
Male: 25-27 inches (63-69 cm), Female: 24-26 inches (61-66 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of a Rhodesian Whippet?
Male: 26 inches (66 cm), Female: 25 inches (63.5 cm)

Rhodesian Whippet Price and Availability

Price Range
How much does a Rhodesian Whippet puppy cost? Find current market prices and factors affecting Rhodesian Whippet costs.
$800-$1200
If you choose to purchase the Rhodesian Whippet, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Rhodesian Whippet for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Rhodesian Whippet gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Rhodesian Whippet? How many Rhodesian Whippet are there in the world?
Very frequent: The Rhodesian Whippet is quite easy to get. There is a risk of overbreeding, as it is an extremely popular breed.

Inbreeding is common because of its popularity. A new study suggests that inbreeding contributes to the incidence of disease and health problems.

So be careful, buy from a trustworthy place or kennel and seek the help of an experienced person, a professional, to make the right decision.

Rhodesian Whippet Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligence Rating
How intelligent is a Rhodesian Whippet? Discover the Rhodesian Whippet's intelligence ranking and learning capabilities.
Average: It takes patience to teach this breed any tricks or commands, but the effort is worth it. They understand and remember new commands after an average of 25-40 repetitions.

The Rhodesian Whippet ranks average in the intelligence ranking of dogs.

Training Difficulty
How easy is it to train a Rhodesian Whippet? Learn about the Rhodesian Whippet's trainability and response to training methods.
Rhodesian Whippet dogs are easy to train. They find out the association between commands and actions quite quickly.
Watchdog Rating
How good is a Rhodesian Whippet as a watchdog? Learn about the Rhodesian Whippet's alertness and guarding instincts.
Rhodesian Whippet dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, they will alert you, but observation isn't considered their main job.
Territorial Protection
Is a Rhodesian Whippet protective of its territory? Learn about the Rhodesian Whippet's guarding instincts and behavior.
Rhodesian Whippet dogs are average defenders. Some dogs are very protective of their territory, while others easily let a stranger to trespass. This breed is not sure to defend its territory in every situation.

Rhodesian Whippet Personality and Temperament

Personality Traits
What personality does a Rhodesian Whippet have? Learn about characteristic Rhodesian Whippet temperament and behavior traits.
DignifiedSensitiveIntelligentFriendlyAffectionateLoyalLivelyGentleOutrightStrongWilledCompanionableAdaptableQuietMischievous
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Rhodesian Whippet sensitivity:
Sensitive: Rhodesian Whippet dogs don't like an irregular daily routine, noisy household, and frequent guest visits.

This breed's emotional level reflects their owner's feelings and they don't handle punishments well.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a Rhodesian Whippet a good family dog?
Average to High: Rhodesian Whippet dogs are highly affectionate dogs. They like being involved in the family's life. This breed isn't considered an aloof dog.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Rhodesian Whippet need? Rhodesian Whippet social needs:
Rhodesian Whippet dogs are a social breed. They enjoy being around people or other animals. This breed doesn't tolerate being left alone.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Rhodesian Whippet to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Rhodesian Whippet roam?
Rhodesian Whippet dogs have high wanderlust potential, which means that this breed has a strong desire for exploring the world. Safer to walk them on a leash unless you teach them how to get back to you on command. This breed is also able to cause damage to your fence.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Rhodesian Whippet have high prey drive?
Rhodesian Whippet dogs have a high impulse to chase and catch something. Cats or any other small animals are in danger. It's a natural instinct, doesn't necessarily mean that Rhodesian Whippet dogs are aggressive. Better to keep this breed on a leash.

Rhodesian Whippet Activity and Playfulness

Barking Frequency
Does a Rhodesian Whippet bark a lot? Learn about typical Rhodesian Whippet vocalization patterns and triggers.
Low to Average: The Rhodesian Whippet rarely barks. This breed could be a good choice if you're looking for a quiet breed. They don't bark unless there is a good reason.

Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking.

Playful Nature
How playful is a Rhodesian Whippet? Understand the typical play drive and energy level of the Rhodesian Whippet breed.
The Rhodesian Whippet is a playful breed. Excited barking and sometimes nipping will alert you to play.
Apartment Adaptability
Can a Rhodesian Whippet live in an apartment? Learn about the Rhodesian Whippet's suitability for apartment living.
Apartment-friendly dog the Rhodesian Whippet breed. It is best if you have a small garden where it can occasionally go out to do its business, but this is not important at all. You can exercise him enough with a walk or two a day, so he's comfortable in an apartment.

Rhodesian Whippet Adaptability and Independence

Lifestyle Adaptability
How adaptable is a Rhodesian Whippet to lifestyle changes? Learn about the Rhodesian Whippet's flexibility to new situations.
Rhodesian Whippet dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments. They don't mind moving from one place to another with their owner.
Alone Time Tolerance
Can a Rhodesian Whippet be left alone? Learn about the Rhodesian Whippet's tolerance to solitude.
Rhodesian Whippet dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.

Rhodesian Whippet Bite Characteristics

Bite Risk Assessment
What is a Rhodesian Whippet biting potential? Learn about the Rhodesian Whippet's bite risk factors.

Low 🔽

The Rhodesian Whippet has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthing Tendency
Is a Rhodesian Whippet mouthy? Learn about the Rhodesian Whippet's tendency to use mouth during play.
Rhodesian Whippet dogs have a higher than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Rhodesian Whippet dogs need to be taught a good attitude.
Bite Strength Rating
How strong is a Rhodesian Whippet bite? Learn about the Rhodesian Whippet's bite force measured in PSI.

Between 200 and 400 PSI

Rhodesian Whippet bite force: Ordinary. Bite force Rhodesian Whippet measurements typically fall within the range of 200 to 400 PSI. The bite force of a Rhodesian Whippet is considered ordinary when compared to other dog breeds, but it is still quite powerful. This Rhodesian Whippet bite force PSI can cause bite wounds. Rhodesian Whippet bite PSI is not something that should be feared if the dog is well-trained and managed. To avoid any issues, it's essential to learn how to train a Rhodesian Whippet puppy not to bite from an early age.

The Rhodesian Whippet, and many others, have a fearsome presence because they have significant jaw strength, so it is important not to anger the dog and have it around strangers until it is fully trained.

However, they are usually quite calm and good companions, they work well in families and are easy to care for.

In conclusion, while the Rhodesian Whippet bite force is certainly an interesting aspect of the breed, it is important not to let it overshadow the many other reasons why these dogs are so loved and respected. With proper training and socialization, a Rhodesian Whippet can be a loyal and protective companion for your family.

Rhodesian Whippet Health and Lifespan

Average Lifespan
How long does a Rhodesian Whippet live? Learn about the typical lifespan of the Rhodesian Whippet breed.
11-15 years
The average lifespan of Rhodesian Whippet: 13 years
Climate Tolerance
How well does a Rhodesian Whippet handle different weather? Learn about the Rhodesian Whippet's climate adaptability.
Tolerates warm and cold weather
Dogs that tolerate hot and cold weather are typically those that have a double coat of fur. Dogs with a double coat of fur have a layer of fur that insulates their skin and helps protect them from the cold and the heat.
Health Concerns
What health issues are common in a Rhodesian Whippet? Discover typical conditions affecting the Rhodesian Whippet breed.
The Rhodesian Whippet is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
Vet Care Frequency
How often does a Rhodesian Whippet need vet visits? Learn about the Rhodesian Whippet's veterinary care requirements.
Average
The Rhodesian Whippet should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year. If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Health Problems
What genetic/health problems does the Rhodesian Whippet breed have? What are the health issues and concerns of the Rhodesian Whippet breed? Most common health risks of Rhodesian Whippet:
Heart Murmurs Hip Dysplasia HypothyroidismDermoid SinusVon Willebrand's DiseaseHeart ProblemsDeafnessVaccination SensitivityDrug SensitivityElbow DysplasiaArthritisKidney IssuesAddison's Disease

Rhodesian Whippet Energy and Activity

Energy Rating
How energetic is a Rhodesian Whippet? Understand daily activity needs of the Rhodesian Whippet breed.
Rhodesian Whippet dogs are high-energy dogs. An active lifestyle makes them happy.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does a Rhodesian Whippet need? How much exercise do Rhodesian Whippet dogs require per day?

Do Rhodesian Whippet dogs need a lot of exercises?

Rhodesian Whippet dogs need quite a lot of exercise. Daily walks should be on schedule. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Rhodesian Whippet breed need?
Rhodesian Whippet dogs are quite energetic dogs and they don't spend too much time with sleeping. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.

Rhodesian Whippet Diet and Weight Management

Obesity Tendency
Is a Rhodesian Whippet prone to weight gain? Learn about the Rhodesian Whippet's obesity risks.
Low to Average: The Rhodesian Whippet has a low to the average risk for obesity. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Rhodesian Whippet weight regularly.

Food Consumption
How much food does a Rhodesian Whippet need daily? Learn about the Rhodesian Whippet's feeding requirements.
Recommended daily amount: 2 3/4 to 4 3/8 cups of a high-quality daily, divided into two meals.

Rhodesian Whippet Allergies and Grooming

Allergy Friendliness
Is a Rhodesian Whippet hypoallergenic? Learn about the Rhodesian Whippet's suitability for allergy sufferers.
No
Rhodesian Whippet dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Coat Colors
What colors does a Rhodesian Whippet come in? Discover all possible Rhodesian Whippet color variations.
BlackGray Red Blue Cream White Fawn Golden Wheaten
Grooming Requirements
How much grooming does a Rhodesian Whippet need? Learn about Rhodesian Whippet coat maintenance requirements.
Effortless: The Rhodesian Whippet requires minimal grooming. Seasonal flea treatment is needed, but cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't necessary.

Ears and eyes should be cleaned sometimes to avoid infections. Rhodesian Whippet is one of the best choices if you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of a high-maintenance dog.

Highly recommended for beginners.
Drooling Tendency
Does a Rhodesian Whippet drool a lot? Learn about the Rhodesian Whippet's drooling habits.
The Rhodesian Whippet is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency. If you're disgusted by slobber spots on your clothes, the Rhodesian Whippet could be a perfect choice for you. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem. Certain dog breeds drool minimum compared to others, just like the Rhodesian Whippet.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Stinkiness Rating
Does a Rhodesian Whippet smell bad? Learn about the Rhodesian Whippet's natural odor levels.

Medium

The Rhodesian Whippet has an average chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Coat Characteristics
What type of coat does a Rhodesian Whippet have? Learn about the Rhodesian Whippet's fur characteristics.
FineDenseShortClose in texture
Bathing Needs
How often does a Rhodesian Whippet need baths? Learn about the Rhodesian Whippet's bathing requirements.
6-8 weeks
Rarely. Bathing your dog is beneficial to them in more ways than just one. It’s also a good time to look for unusual scratches, bumps, fleas, and other irregularities. When their hair is wet and flat against their body, these details are more visible.

For example, short-haired dog breeds can go a very long time in between baths. These short-haired breeds shed regularly and that shedding works to naturally remove excess dirt and oil. So unless your weenie dog got into the garbage can, you can probably hold off on a bath for a while.

Shedding Level
How much do Rhodesian Whippet dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Rhodesian Whippet? Do Rhodesian Whippet dogs shed a lot?
Rhodesian Whippet dogs are low shedders. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. The amount and frequency of hair loss mostly depend on their health status and breed type.

Rhodesian Whippet Good With

Child Compatibility
Is a Rhodesian Whippet good with children? Learn about the Rhodesian Whippet's behavior around kids of different ages.
Rhodesian Whippet dogs are very kid-friendly dogs. This breed enjoys being surrounded by children.
Pet Compatibility
How well does a Rhodesian Whippet get along with other pets? Discover the Rhodesian Whippet's compatibility with other animals.
Rhodesian Whippet dogs usually don’t get on well with other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Rhodesian Whippet temperament with other people:
Rhodesian Whippet dogs are average friendly towards strangers.
Cat Friendly
How well do Rhodesian Whippet dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Rhodesian Whippet breed live with a cat?
Rhodesian Whippet dogs are not the most cat-friendly dogs.
Dog Friendly
Is Rhodesian Whippet good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Rhodesian Whippet dogs get along with other dogs?
Rhodesian Whippet dogs are average friendly towards other dogs.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Rhodesian Whippet breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Rhodesian Whippet breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Rhodesian Whippet dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Rhodesian Whippet dogs good office canines? Do Rhodesian Whippet dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Rhodesian Whippet is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Rhodesian Whippet dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Rhodesian Whippet temperament with senior people? Are Rhodesian Whippet dogs good for elderly owners?
Rhodesian Whippets are one of the best breeds for elderly people.

Rhodesian Whippet As a Working Dog

Service Dog Capability
Can a Rhodesian Whippet be a service dog? Learn about the Rhodesian Whippet's service work potential.

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Rhodesian Whippet is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Work Suitability
Is a Rhodesian Whippet good as a therapy dog? Learn about the Rhodesian Whippet's therapy work aptitude.

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Rhodesian Whippet is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Scent Detection Ability
Is a Rhodesian Whippet good at detection work? Learn about the Rhodesian Whippet's scenting abilities.

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Rhodesian Whippet is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search & Rescue Potential
Can a Rhodesian Whippet do search and rescue? Learn about the Rhodesian Whippet's SAR capabilities.

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.

The Rhodesian Whippet is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

Maritime Work Ability
Is a Rhodesian Whippet good on boats? Learn about the Rhodesian Whippet's maritime capabilities.

Not really

Rhodesian Whippet breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Draft Work Capability
Can a Rhodesian Whippet pull carts? Learn about the Rhodesian Whippet's drafting abilities.

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Rhodesian Whippet is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

Military Service Background
Was a Rhodesian Whippet used in military service? Learn about the Rhodesian Whippet's military history.

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Rhodesian Whippet Reproducibility

Puppy Litter Size
How many puppies does a Rhodesian Whippet usually have? Learn about typical litter sizes.
6-8 puppies
Pregnancy Duration
How long is a Rhodesian Whippet pregnant? Learn about the Rhodesian Whippet's gestation period.

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Rhodesian Whippet: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Breeding Frequency
How often can a Rhodesian Whippet have puppies? Learn about safe breeding intervals.

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.

Rhodesian Whippet Recognition

AKC Classification
What AKC group is a Rhodesian Whippet in? Learn about the Rhodesian Whippet's AKC classification.
Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Classification
What FCI group is a Rhodesian Whippet in? Learn about the Rhodesian Whippet's international classification.
Not recognized by FCI.

Rhodesian Whippet Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Training Difficulty: Rhodesian Whippet dogs are easy to train.
  • Apartment Adaptability: Apartment-friendly dog the Rhodesian Whippet breed.
  • Grooming Requirements: Effortless: The Rhodesian Whippet requires minimal grooming.
  • Shedding Level: Rhodesian Whippet dogs are low shedders.
  • Drooling Tendency: The Rhodesian Whippet is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
  • Obesity Tendency: Low to Average: The Rhodesian Whippet has a low to the average risk for obesity.
  • Lifestyle Adaptability: Rhodesian Whippet dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
  • Child Compatibility: Rhodesian Whippet dogs are very kid-friendly dogs.
  • Senior Citizens Friendly: Rhodesian Whippets are one of the best breeds for elderly people.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Rhodesian Whippet dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Cons
  • Allergy Friendliness: Rhodesian Whippet dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Mouthing Tendency: Rhodesian Whippet dogs have a higher than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people.
  • Impulse to Wander or Roam: Rhodesian Whippet dogs have high wanderlust potential, which means that this breed has a strong desire for exploring the world.
  • Alone Time Tolerance: Rhodesian Whippet dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.
  • Cat Friendly: Rhodesian Whippet dogs are not the most cat-friendly dogs.
  • Office Friendly: Rhodesian Whippet is not the best dog breed for office environment.

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