Whippets are often admired for their slim, elegant build and athletic energy. Their natural leanness can make new owners wonder: “Do whippets ever get fat?” or “Is my whippet too skinny?”
The truth is yes — whippets can absolutely get fat. Even though they’re naturally lean, if they eat more calories than they burn or don’t get enough daily activity, they can become overweight like any other dog. Weight gain may also happen as they age or if they develop certain health conditions.
The problem? Extra pounds can seriously harm a whippet’s health. Obesity puts unnecessary strain on their joints, increases the risk of heart disease and diabetes, and can shorten their lifespan by up to 2 years.
In this guide, you’ll discover:
✅ The healthy weight range for whippets
✅ How to check if your whippet is overweight
✅ The 5 most common reasons whippets gain fat
✅ A calorie calculator to guide feeding
✅ 3 expert tips to keep your whippet lean & healthy
Let’s dive in.
What’s a Healthy Weight for Whippets?
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC):
- Adult whippets typically weigh 25–40 lbs.
- Below 25 lbs → they may be underweight.
- Above 40 lbs → they’re entering overweight territory.
Because whippets are naturally skinny, it’s normal for their ribs to be faintly visible. Many new owners panic, thinking they’re underfed, but this is usually a sign of good health.
👉 Quick Energy Check: If your whippet is thin but still runs, plays, and has good stamina, they’re likely healthy. If they’re thin and lethargic, you may need to increase food.
How to Tell If a Whippet Is Overweight
Unlike fluffy breeds, whippets’ short coats make it easier to spot weight changes. Watch for:
- Loss of tuck: Their stomach should curve up behind the ribs. If it’s level or sagging down, that’s a sign of fat gain.
- Rounded belly: A barrel-like belly instead of a slim waist.
- Low energy: Getting tired quickly or reluctant to exercise.
- Breathing changes: Panting heavily after minimal activity.
👉 Try the rib test: Run your hand gently over your whippet’s ribs.
- If you can feel them easily → healthy.
- If you can’t feel them at all → overweight.
5 Reasons Why Whippets Get Fat
1. Getting Older
As whippets age, their metabolism slows, and they may prefer napping over running. Owners often spoil older dogs with extra treats, which combined with less exercise = weight gain.
💡 Tip: Switch to a senior dog food formula that’s lower in calories but still nutrient-rich.
2. Lack of Exercise
Whippets need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. Without it, unused calories turn into fat quickly. Even though they love being “couch potatoes,” remember: this is a sprinting breed built for bursts of speed and play.
3. Improper Diet
Overfeeding is the #1 reason whippets gain weight. Too many treats, table scraps, or oversized kibble portions add up fast.
- 80% diet, 20% exercise → Weight control depends more on what and how much they eat than on how much they run.
4. Injury or Recovery
If your whippet gets injured and can’t run, their calorie burn drops but appetite often stays the same. Extra pounds build up quickly during recovery.
5. Underlying Health Problems
Medical issues like hypothyroidism or Cushing’s disease can trigger unexplained weight gain, even with a good diet. If you notice sudden changes, a vet check is essential.
How Many Calories Should a Whippet Eat? (Calculator)
Use this formula:
(Weight in lbs ÷ 2.2) × 30 + 70 = Daily Calories
👉 Example: A 32 lb whippet needs about 506 calories per day.
📌 Feeding Tips:
- Use your dog food bag to check calories per cup.
- Treats should be 10% or less of daily calories.
- Adjust gradually — never cut calories drastically.
3 Tips to Prevent Your Whippet From Getting Fat
1. Monitor Food Intake (Most Important!)
Measure kibble portions instead of guessing. If in doubt, ask your vet for the exact amount your dog needs.
2. Don’t Give In to Puppy-Dog Eyes
Whippets are experts at begging, but giving in trains them to repeat it. Replace food rewards with play, cuddles, or praise.
3. Prioritize Daily Exercise
Keep a routine of walks, fetch, or lure coursing. Even 2 shorter walks + playtime is better than 1 long session. Mental stimulation games (snuffle mats, puzzle toys) also help prevent boredom eating.
Conclusion
So, can whippets get fat? Absolutely. While they’re naturally lean, overfeeding, lack of exercise, aging, or health problems can lead to weight gain.
Maintaining your whippet’s weight is about balance: the right diet, consistent exercise, and regular health checkups. A lean whippet isn’t just elegant — they’re healthier, more energetic, and likely to live longer.
👉 If you’re unsure about your whippet’s weight, check their ribs, watch their energy, and talk to your vet. A healthy whippet is a happy whippet.