Russell Terrier vs Whippet
Comprehensive comparison of two popular breeds to help you decide which one might be the better fit for your lifestyle and preferences.
Russell Terrier
Terrier Group
Whippet
Hound Group
Quick Comparison
Size
Lifespan
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Table of Contents
Breed Overview
Russell Terrier Overview
Russell Terriers are compact, muscular dogs with distinctive V-shaped ears and alert expressions. Their strong, flexible bodies feature a balanced proportion between height and length. The predominantly white coat may have tan or black markings, remaining harsh and weather-resistant. These agile terriers move with purpose and precision, displaying the athletic build essential for their historical hunting abilities.
Whippet Overview
Graceful and athletic, Whippets possess a distinctive silhouette with their deep chest, curved back, and long, slender legs. Their short, smooth coat comes in various colors and patterns. Known for combining remarkable speed with gentle companionship, these sight hounds display an elegant blend of muscular strength and refined features, embodying both power and grace in their streamlined build.
Key Differences
- Energy Level: Russell Terriers are more energetic than Whippets, requiring more daily exercise.
- Grooming: Russell Terriers require more grooming attention compared to Whippets.
- Temperament: While both breeds are intelligent, Russell Terriers tend to be more reserved with strangers than Whippets.
- Trainability: Russell Terriers may be slightly easier to train due to their Russell Terrier's higher intelligence ranking.
- Living Situation: Whippets adapt better to apartment living, while Russell Terriers typically prefer homes with more space.
Detailed Comparison
Below is a comprehensive side-by-side comparison of the Russell Terrier and Whippet, covering everything from physical characteristics to care requirements.
Basic Information
| Feature | Russell Terrier | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Toy | Small |
| Life Expectancy | 12-14 years | 12-15 years |
| Country of Origin | Unknown | Unknown |
| Breed Group | Terrier Group | Hound Group |
Physical Characteristics
| Feature | Russell Terrier | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 10-12 inches 25-30 cm | 18-22 inches 46-56 cm |
| Weight | 9-15 lbs 4-7 kg | 25-40 lbs 11-18 kg |
| Coat Type | Medium coat | Short, dense coat |
| Coat Length | Medium | Short |
| Shedding | Occasional | Occasional |
Temperament & Behavior
| Feature | Russell Terrier | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | Alert, Inquisitive, Lively | Affectionate, Playful, Calm |
| Energy Level | | |
| Intelligence | | |
Compatibility
| Feature | Russell Terrier | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Good with Children | | |
| Good with Other Dogs | | |
| Apartment Friendly | | |
Temperament & Personality
Russell Terrier Temperament
The Russell Terrier is known for being alert, inquisitive, lively, making them better suited for homes without young children. Their moderate intelligence means they can be trained with consistent effort. They tend to be reserved with strangers, which makes them good watchdogs. With their high energy levels, they need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.
Whippet Temperament
The Whippet is characterized by being affectionate, playful, calm, which makes them great companions for families. With their moderate intelligence, they can learn with consistent training methods. They're naturally cautious around strangers, which enhances their ability to serve as watchdogs. Their moderate energy level makes them versatile companions that can adapt to your activity level, though regular exercise is still important.
Temperament Comparison
When comparing the Russell Terrier and Whippet, there are notable differences in their temperaments that potential owners should consider:
Sociability with Strangers
Good with Children
Side-by-Side Trait Ratings
GOOD WITH YOUNG CHILDREN
Russell Terrier
Rating: 3/5
Whippet
Rating: 5/5
GOOD WITH OTHER DOGS
Russell Terrier
Rating: 3/5
Whippet
Rating: 5/5
ENERGY LEVEL
Russell Terrier
Rating: 5/5
Whippet
Rating: 3/5
TRAINABILITY / INTELLIGENCE
Russell Terrier
Rating: 3/5
Whippet
Rating: 2/5
GROOMING NEEDS
Russell Terrier
Rating: 3/5
Whippet
Rating: 2/5
Care & Maintenance
Russell Terrier Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Russell Terriers require significant daily exercise, including at least 60-90 minutes of physical activity. This can include walks, play sessions, and more vigorous activities like running, swimming, or fetch.
Grooming Requirements
With their medium coat coat, Russell Terriers require moderate grooming. This includes regular brushing to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Occasional professional grooming may be beneficial.
Whippet Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Whippets need regular daily exercise, including about 30-60 minutes of physical activity. This should include walks, play sessions, and moderate activities like walking and interactive play.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Whippets require moderate grooming. This includes regular brushing to maintain coat health and reduce shedding. Occasional professional grooming may be helpful.
Health & Lifespan
Russell Terrier Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Patellar Luxation
- Lens Luxation
- Deafness
- Legg-Calve-Perthes
- Glaucoma
Whippet Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Heart disease
- Eye problems
- Anesthesia sensitivity
- Dental issues
- Joint problems
Pros & Cons
Russell Terrier
Pros
- Highly energetic and playful
- Compact size suits various homes
- Intelligent and trainable
- Low grooming requirements
Cons
- High exercise needs
- Strong prey drive
- Can be stubborn
- May be vocal
Whippet
Pros
- Gentle and affectionate
- Low grooming needs
- Quiet and clean
- Good with children
- Athletic and graceful
Cons
- High prey drive
- Cannot be off-leash in unsecured areas
- Sensitive to cold
- Needs regular exercise
- Can be stubborn
Ready to Find Your Perfect Match?
Now that you've compared the Russell Terrier and Whippet, explore more breeds or use our breed matching tool to find the perfect dog for your lifestyle.