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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 Type
What type of dog breed is it?
Cross Breed Rhodesian Ridgeback and Whippet mix

Rhodesian Whippet Size and Weight

Size
Is a Rhodesian Whippet small, medium or large dog?

How big do Rhodesian Whippet get?

What is the average size of a Rhodesian Whippet?

LargeMedium
Weight
How much does the Rhodesian Whippet weigh? How much should a Rhodesian Whippet weight? What is the normal weight of a Rhodesian Whippet? How much does a full-grown Rhodesian Whippet weight?
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
How much does the Rhodesian Whippet puppy cost? What is the price range of this puppy? What is the average price of a Rhodesian Whippet in the United States? How much money is a Rhodesian Whippet?

Where to buy a Rhodesian Whippet with a good pedigree?

$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

Intelligent Rank
How smart is the Rhodesian Whippet? Is the Rhodesian Whippet breed dumb or smart?
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.

Trainability
Are Rhodesian Whippet dogs easy to train? Do they go well on dog training? How hard is it to train a Rhodesian Whippet?
Rhodesian Whippet dogs are easy to train. They find out the association between commands and actions quite quickly.
Watchdog Ability
Is Rhodesian Whippet good as a watchdog? Are they alert at night?
Rhodesian Whippet dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, they will alert you, but observation isn't considered their main job.
Guarding Behavior / Territorial
Do Rhodesian Whippet dogs have aggressive behavior to protect their home/house/territory? Do they have guarding instincts?
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

Temperament
What kind of personality does the Rhodesian Whippet have? What characteristics or traits does the breed have?
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

Playfulness
How playful is this breed?
The Rhodesian Whippet is a playful breed. Excited barking and sometimes nipping will alert you to play.
Barking
Do Rhodesian Whippet dogs bark a lot? Are they barkers/noisy? Why does my Rhodesian Whippet bark?
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.

Apartment Friendly
Is Rhodesian Whippet good as an apartment dog? Can they live in a flat? Can you have a Rhodesian Whippet in an apartment?
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

Adaptability
Are they adaptable and easy-going?
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.
Tolerates Being Left Alone
How long can a Rhodesian Whippet be left alone? How long can you leave a Rhodesian Whippet alone?
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 Force PSI
Does the Rhodesian Whippet has a hard bite? What is the bite force of a Rhodesian Whippet? How much bite force does a Rhodesian Whippet have? How strong is a Rhodesian Whippet bite?

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.

Biting Potential
Do Rhodesian Whippet bite humans? How likely are you to get bitten from the Rhodesian Whippet? What are the odds of getting bitten by a Rhodesian Whippet? Why do dog bites happen?

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.)
Mouthiness
How much mouthing/nipping/play biting does the Rhodesian Whippet do?
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.

Rhodesian Whippet Health and Lifespan

Health Issues
Is it a healthy or unhealthy breed? Do Rhodesian Whippet dogs have health problems or genetic diseases?
The Rhodesian Whippet is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
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
Veterinarian Visits
How often does the Rhodesian Whippet breed need to go to the vet? How often should you take your dog to the vet? How often should the Rhodesian Whippet see the vet?
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.
Life Expectancy
How long do Rhodesian Whippet dogs live? How old can a Rhodesian Whippet be? What is the age limit of the Rhodesian Whippet? How many years can the oldest Rhodesian Whippet live?

What is the average life expectancy / lifespan of a Rhodesian Whippet?

How long is the lifespan of a Rhodesian Whippet?

11-15 years
The average lifespan of Rhodesian Whippet: 13 years
Weather and Climate
Which weather condition is preferred by this dog? Can they tolerate hot or cold weather and climate?
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.

Rhodesian Whippet Energy and Activity

Energy Level
How much energy does the Rhodesian Whippet have? What is the activity level of the Rhodesian Whippet?
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

Average daily food consumption
How much food does a Rhodesian Whippet need? What dog products should I buy? How much food does a Rhodesian Whippet breed eat per day? What is good dog food for Rhodesian Whippet? How much food should I feed my Rhodesian Whippet?
Recommended daily amount: 2 3/4 to 4 3/8 cups of a high-quality daily, divided into two meals.
Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity
How easy to gain weight for this dog? Rhodesian Whippet risk for obesity:
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.

Rhodesian Whippet Allergies and Grooming

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat does the Rhodesian Whippet have? What does this canine coat/fur look like?
FineDenseShortClose in texture
Colors
What color is the breed's coat? What color are proper Rhodesian Whippet coats?
BlackGray Red Blue Cream White Fawn Golden Wheaten
Grooming
How to groom the Rhodesian Whippet and how often? How often should I take my Rhodesian Whippet to the groomer?
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.
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.
Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
How often does the Rhodesian Whippet need a bath? How often should you give a Rhodesian Whippet a bath? Can I bathe my Rhodesian Whippet every day?
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.

Hypoallergenic
Is the Rhodesian Whippet breed hypoallergenic?
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.
Stinkiness
How stinky is this dog? Why does it smell bad and how to get rid of the smell?

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.
Drooling Tendency
Does the Rhodesian Whippet drool?
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.

Rhodesian Whippet Good With

Pet Friendly
Are they pet-friendly dogs? How well do Rhodesian Whippet dogs get along with other pets? Are Rhodesian Whippet dogs good with pets? What is this canine temperament with other pets?
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.
Child Friendly
Are Rhodesian Whippet dogs kid-friendly? Are they good with young children? Rhodesian Whippet temperament with children:
Rhodesian Whippet dogs are very kid-friendly dogs. This breed enjoys being surrounded by children.
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
Are they good as service dogs? Can Rhodesian Whippet be a guide dog? Are they used as seeing-eye dogs?

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 Dog
Are they good as therapy dogs? Can Rhodesian Whippet be a therapy dog? Are they good anxiety dogs? Can a Rhodesian Whippet be an emotional support animal?

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.

Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog
Are they good as detection dogs? Can Rhodesian Whippet be a sniffer dog?

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 and Rescue Dog (SAR)
Are they good as SAR dogs? Can Rhodesian Whippet be a search and rescue dog?

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.

Boat and Sailor Dog
Are they good as boat dogs? Can Rhodesian Whippet be a boat dog?

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.

Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog
Are they good as cart pulling dogs? Can Rhodesian Whippet be a drafting dog?

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.

Fighting Dog / Military Dog
Where Rhodesian Whippet dogs used as fighting / military dogs in history?

Not really

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

Rhodesian Whippet Reproducibility

Gestation Length
How long is a Rhodesian Whippet pregnant?How long does it take to have puppies? How to tell if the Rhodesian Whippet breed is pregnant?

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.

Litter Frequency

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.
Litter Size
How many puppies can the Rhodesian Whippet have in a litter? How many puppies can the Rhodesian Whippet breed have for the first time? How many puppies does a Rhodesian Whippet have? How many puppies can a Rhodesian Whippet give birth to?
6-8 puppies

Rhodesian Whippet Recognition

AKC Group
Is Rhodesian Whippet recognized by the American Kennel Club?
Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Group
Is Rhodesian Whippet recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)?
Not recognized by FCI.

Rhodesian Whippet Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Trainability: Rhodesian Whippet dogs are easy to train.
  • Apartment Friendly: Apartment-friendly dog the Rhodesian Whippet breed.
  • Grooming: 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.
  • Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity: Low to Average: The Rhodesian Whippet has a low to the average risk for obesity.
  • Adaptability: Rhodesian Whippet dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
  • Child Friendly: 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
  • Hypoallergenic: Rhodesian Whippet dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Mouthiness: 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.
  • Tolerates Being Left Alone: 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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