Rat Terrier vs. Whippig: Breed Differences and Similarities

Hypoallergenic

Are Rat Terriers or Whippigs hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither Rat Terrier nor Whippig are hypoallergenic, which may not make them the best choice for dog lovers who suffer from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Rat Terrier and Whippig dogs?

Affectionate
Inquisitive
Loving
Alert
Lively

Agile
Intelligent
Friendly
Affectionate
Lively
Gentle
Outright
Companionable
Adaptable
Quiet
Athletic
Mischievous

Shedding Level

Do Rat Terriers shed more than Whippigs, or which breed sheds more, Rat Terriers or Whippigs?

4 / 5

Rat Terriers are heavy shedders, but regular brushing can help manage shedding and promote a healthy coat.

2 / 5

Whippigs are low shedding dogs, requiring minimal coat care.

Ancestry

What are the origins of Rat Terrier and Whippig breeds?

Terrier, Whippet, Greyhound, Beagle

Italian Greyhound and Whippet

Date of Birth

When were Rat Terrier and Whippig breeds first developed?

1800s

Unknown

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Rat Terrier and Whippig?

A Rat Terrier can have a litter of 15-18 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

A Whippig can have a litter of 4-8 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

5 / 5

Rat Terrier and Whippigs are known for their adaptability and versatility. They are capable of adapting well to a wide range of lifestyle changes and living environments, making them great companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Health Issues

Between Rat Terrier and Whippig, which breed is more prone to health problems?

3 / 5

Rat Terrier and Whippig breeds are generally considered to be healthy. However, like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain health issues and it is important to keep an eye out for them and address them with your veterinarian as needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Rat Terrier and Whippig breeds?

Patellar Luxation
Elbow Dysplasia
Hip Dysplasia

Patellar Luxation
Von Willebrand's Disease
Corneal Dystrophy
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Rat Terrier and Whippig?

Demodectic Mange
Epilepsy
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
Color Dilution Alopecia
Teeth Issues

Cataracts
Anesthesia Sensitivity/Allergy
Bone Fractures

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Rat Terrier and Whippig breeds?

Hip
Elbow
X-Rays
Dental Examination
Physical Examination
Skin Evaluation

X-Rays
Eye Examination
Full Body Physical Examination
DNA for VWD
Hip and Knee

Social Needs

Rat Terrier vs Whippig social needs comparison

5 / 5

Rat Terrier has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.

3 / 5

Whippig has average social needs and is less independent than other breeds.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Rat Terrier or Whippig?

1 / 5

Rat Terriers are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.

2 / 5

Whippigs sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Rat Terrier vs Whippig?

2 / 5

4 / 5

Roaming urge

Rat Terrier vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

4 / 5

Prey Drive

Rat Terrier or Whippig - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

4 / 5

5 / 5

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Rat Terrier and Whippig entertained?

Chase, Sniff, Bark, Trot, Fetch, Tug-of-war, Run, Playing, Chasing, Jumping, Running, Walking, Play, Walk, Play keep away

Shopping, Tug-of-war, Nap, Hide & Seek, Speak, Cuddling, Tag, Running

Tolerance of being left alone

1 / 5

3 / 5

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Rat Terriers or Whippigs?

1 / 5

Rat Terrier and Whippig are breeds of dogs that do not require extensive grooming.

Sensitivity Level

How do Rat Terrier and Whippig compare in sensitivity?

4 / 5

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

5 / 5

This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Rat Terrier or Whippig?

5 / 5

Rat Terriers make excellent apartment dogs, being fairly active indoors and not requiring a yard.

4 / 5

The Whippig is a great apartment dog, thriving with sufficient exercise and time outside as part of their daily routine.

Child Friendly

Do Rat Terriers or Whippigs have a friendlier temperament towards children?

5 / 5

Rat Terriers make excellent family pets for kids due to their gentle, protective nature and calm temperament.

3 / 5

Whippigs have an average level of friendliness towards children.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Rat Terrier or Whippig?

5 / 5

3 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do Rat Terrier or Whippig breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

4 / 5

Rat Terriers are good with cats, but early training is needed to prevent chasing behavior.

2 / 5

Whippigs are somewhat cat friendly and can be trained to get along with cats.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Rat Terrier or Whippig?

4 / 5

Rat Terriers are friendly and active companions, and can be good family pets, though their friendliness towards other dogs may vary.

3 / 5

Whippigs are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.

Pet friendly

How do Rat Terrier or Whippig dogs interact with other pets?

4 / 5

2 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Rat Terrier or Whippig?

4 / 5

Rat Terriers are friendly but may bark at strangers, and training is easy due to their intelligence.

3 / 5

Whippigs are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Rat Terrier and Whippig?

3 / 5

Rat Terrier and Whippig have an average level of playfulness. Like other dogs, they enjoy playing, but they are not the most playful dog breed.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Rat Terriers and Whippigs compare?

3 / 5

Rat Terriers are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.

4 / 5

Whippigs are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.