Whether a Long Haired Whippet Costs More
It’s easy to get excited about the idea of a "Long Haired Whippet," imagining that elegant sighthound profile with a flowing, ethereal coat. Many people come across images or hear whispers of such dogs and wonder if they've stumbled upon a rare gem. This guide is here to unravel the truth behind this captivating concept and help you understand the realities of coat types within the sighthound world, as well as the cost implications that come with them.
The Truth About "Long Haired Whippets" and Breed Standards
Let's cut right to the chase: a true, purebred Whippet, according to every recognized breed standard around the globe, has a short, smooth coat. There is no official "long-haired" variety of Whippet. If you encounter a dog being advertised as a "Long Haired Whippet," it’s crucial to understand what that actually means, as it's almost certainly not a standard purebred Whippet. This can be a source of frustration for prospective owners who might feel misled or confused by conflicting information online.
This isn't to say there aren't beautiful sighthounds with longer coats; it simply means they aren't Whippets. The Whippet's defining characteristics, from its lean athleticism to its distinctive coat, are carefully preserved within the breed standard. Any deviation from this, especially something as significant as coat length, immediately places a dog outside of what is recognized as a purebred Whippet. This distinction is vital not just for showing, but also for understanding potential health and temperament traits associated with specific breeds. For more on this, you might find The Longhaired Whippet Question sheds more light.
What a Purebred Whippet's Coat Actually Looks Like
A purebred Whippet's coat is one of its most recognizable features. It's short, fine, and exceptionally smooth to the touch. Think of it like velvet, clinging closely to their sleek, muscular bodies. This type of coat is incredibly low-maintenance, requiring very little grooming beyond an occasional brush to remove loose hairs and maintain its natural sheen. It's part of why they're often considered such an easy-care breed in terms of grooming.
This short, dense coat offers some protection from the elements, but it's not designed for extreme cold or prolonged exposure, which is why Whippets are famous for needing a wardrobe of coats and sweaters. Their lack of insulating body fat means they get chilly quickly. The simplicity of their coat is actually a huge part of their appeal for many owners, who appreciate not having to deal with mats, tangles, or extensive shedding. Understanding the natural state of a Whippet's coat helps clarify why a "long-haired" version isn't part of the purebred picture.
The Genetic Reality of Coat Length in Whippets
Genetically speaking, the short coat of a Whippet is a dominant trait. This means that for a Whippet to have a short coat, it only needs to inherit one copy of the dominant short-coat gene. For a long coat to appear, the dog would need to inherit two copies of a recessive long-coat gene. While such recessive genes exist in other breeds, they are simply not present in the purebred Whippet gene pool, which has been carefully maintained over generations to produce their characteristic smooth coat.
If a "long-haired" individual does appear from a supposed purebred Whippet pairing, it's a strong indicator that somewhere in the lineage, another breed introduced the long-coat gene. This could be many generations back, or a more recent, undocumented cross-breeding. Reputable breeders health-test their breeding stock and are transparent about lineage, often registering their dogs with organizations like the AKC. A "long-haired" trait would be a significant red flag for anyone looking for a verifiable purebred Whippet, raising questions about the dog's true ancestry and the breeder's practices.
Understanding the Silken Windhound: The Likely Candidate
When people talk about "Long Haired Whippets," what they are almost certainly picturing, and often what they are being shown, is a Silken Windhound. The Silken Windhound is a distinct, recognized breed that was developed relatively recently, in part from Whippet lineage, specifically to combine the grace of a sighthound with a beautiful, flowing coat. They are elegant, medium-sized sighthounds with a stunning long, silky coat that is indeed a sight to behold.
Silken Windhounds share many characteristics with Whippets, including their gentle nature, athleticism, and love for lounging on soft surfaces. However, their coat is the most obvious difference. They have longer hair on their ears, tail, legs, and body, giving them that "long-haired" appearance that captures so many hearts. It's crucial to understand that while they have Whippet ancestors, they are not simply "long-haired Whippets"; they are their own unique breed with their own breed club, standards, and carefully documented lineage. How the Silken Windhound Came From Whippets delves deeper into their origins.
How Silken Windhounds Came to Be
The Silken Windhound breed originated in the United States in the late 1980s. The goal was to create a medium-sized sighthound with a long, silky coat, wonderful temperament, and excellent health. To achieve this, breeders selectively crossed Whippets with Borzoi and eventually Shetland Sheepdogs to introduce the long coat gene and further refine temperament and appearance. The Borzoi contributed the long coat and elegant stature, while the Whippet provided the smaller, more compact sighthound build and speed.
This careful breeding program has resulted in a stable, recognized breed with consistent traits. They are not recognized by all major kennel clubs like the AKC yet, but they have their own international registry and dedicated enthusiasts who show and compete with them. Their development is a fantastic example of how new breeds can be established through thoughtful and ethical breeding practices, addressing desires that aren't met by existing breeds.
Why a Silken Windhound Might Cost More Than a Whippet
When it comes to cost, a Silken Windhound puppy can often command a higher price tag than a purebred Whippet. There are several factors at play here. Firstly, Silken Windhounds are a much rarer breed. Their population is smaller, and there are fewer breeders actively producing litters compared to Whippets, which have been established for much longer and are more widely known. Scarcity often drives up price.
Secondly, the specialized breeding required to establish and maintain a new breed, especially one with specific aesthetic and temperament goals, can involve significant investment. Breeders typically conduct extensive health testing on parents, ensuring genetic diversity and soundness. The care, time, and resources dedicated to each litter, combined with the smaller number of available puppies, naturally contribute to a higher cost. Prospective owners should always expect to pay a premium for any rare or carefully developed breed, and if you're looking at a Silken Windhound, you should anticipate a price reflective of their unique status. For comparison, you might consider What a Whippet Puppy Costs in 2026 to understand baseline prices for established breeds.
| Feature | Purebred Whippet | Silken Windhound (often called "Long Haired Whippet") | Whippet Mix (with long coat) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coat Type | Short, smooth, fine | Long, silky, feathered | Varies, can be medium to long, often coarse or wavy |
| Breed Status | Recognized by major kennel clubs (AKC, UKC, FCI) | Independent registry, gaining recognition, distinct breed | Not a recognized breed, considered a mixed breed |
| Breeding Goal | Maintain established sighthound standard | Create a medium sighthound with a long, silky coat | Accidental, or bred for specific traits in a cross |
| Typical Cost | Moderate to high for well-bred pups | Often higher due to rarity and specialized breeding | Highly variable, generally lower than purebreds |
| Availability | Widely available from reputable breeders | Less common, fewer breeders | Unpredictable, often found in rescues or accidental litters |
| Grooming Needs | Minimal brushing | Regular brushing to prevent mats, occasional trims | Variable, depending on coat type inherited |
The Case of the Whippet Mix or Unstandardized Coat
Beyond the Silken Windhound, the other possibility when someone talks about a "Long Haired Whippet" is a mixed-breed dog. This could be an intentional cross-breeding (a "designer dog") or an accidental litter. In these cases, a Whippet has been bred with another breed that carries the recessive long-coat gene, resulting in puppies that may express this trait. These dogs are truly a genetic lottery, as they can inherit a wide array of traits from both parent breeds.
Sometimes, a seemingly purebred Whippet might unexpectedly produce puppies with longer coats. This typically suggests an undocumented cross many generations back or a very rare, spontaneous mutation. Reputable breeders are very careful about their lines and genetic health, performing genetic tests to avoid surprises. An ethical breeder would be transparent if such a trait appeared in their lines and would usually not market these dogs as "purebred long-haired Whippets" because they do not meet the breed standard.
When a Whippet Carries a Longer Coat Gene
It's entirely possible for a Whippet to be a carrier of a long-coat gene without actually expressing it. This means the dog has one copy of the recessive long-coat gene and one copy of the dominant short-coat gene, so it appears short-haired. If two such carrier Whippets are bred together, statistically, a percentage of their offspring could inherit two copies of the recessive gene and thus be long-haired. This is the genetic mechanism behind many "hidden" traits in dogs.
However, as mentioned, this particular long-coat gene is simply not part of the standard Whippet genetic makeup. If it appears, it's a marker of an outcross somewhere in the ancestry. For a breeder aiming to produce purebred Whippets, such a discovery would be significant. They would typically re-evaluate their breeding program and potentially remove affected dogs from their lines to maintain breed purity and standards. It highlights the importance of genetic testing and a deep understanding of canine genetics for responsible breeding. The Health Tests Both Whippet Parents Should Have is a good resource for understanding breeder responsibilities.
The Cost Implications of a Mixed Breed Sighthound
The cost of a mixed-breed sighthound, even one with a long coat, is typically much lower than that of a purebred Whippet or a Silken Windhound. Mixed breeds are rarely, if ever, sold for the high prices commanded by purposefully bred purebreds. The value is assessed differently, often based on factors like rescue fees, basic veterinary care, or the nominal fee a backyard breeder might charge. You won't find mixed-breed dogs advertised for thousands of dollars because they don't carry the same guarantee of predictable traits or lineage.
If you encounter someone selling a "Long Haired Whippet" for a price comparable to a purebred Whippet or Silken Windhound, especially without clear documentation or breed registration, it should raise a red flag. Always ask for proof of parentage, health testing results, and consider visiting the breeding facility. Reputable breeders, whether of Whippets or Silken Windhounds, are proud of their work and transparent with prospective owners. For these dogs, you might consider pet insurance from providers like Healthy Paws or browsing supplies at Chewy, as ongoing care is always a factor regardless of initial cost.
Beyond the Initial Purchase Price: Ongoing Costs for a Longer Coat
The initial purchase price is only one piece of the puzzle when it comes to dog ownership. Ongoing costs, especially for grooming, can significantly impact your budget. This is where the difference between a truly short-coated Whippet and a longer-coated sighthound like a Silken Windhound becomes quite apparent. While a purebred Whippet is notoriously low-maintenance in the grooming department, a dog with a longer, silkier coat demands more attention and resources.
Thinking about the long term, consider things like specialized shampoos, conditioners, brushes, and potentially professional grooming appointments if you're not comfortable tackling serious mats or trims yourself. These costs add up over the years and are an important part of the financial commitment you make to your dog. Don't let the allure of a unique coat overshadow the practicalities of its care.
Grooming and Maintenance for Different Coat Types
Let's compare the grooming needs directly. A standard Whippet's short, smooth coat needs minimal grooming. A quick brush once a week with a soft brush or a grooming mitt is usually sufficient to remove loose hairs and keep their coat shiny. Baths are infrequent, only as needed, and they air-dry relatively quickly. The main ongoing cost is probably just a good quality dog shampoo a few times a year. What Grooming a Whippet Costs truly highlights how little time and money this involves.
In contrast, a Silken Windhound's long, silky coat requires regular, thorough brushing, often several times a week, to prevent tangles and mats, especially in the feathering on their legs, ears, and tail. They may need more frequent baths, and proper drying is crucial to avoid skin issues. Some owners opt for professional grooming every few months to maintain the coat's condition, which can be a significant expense. Even if you do it yourself, you'll invest in quality brushes, combs, detangling sprays, and conditioning treatments. Services from Chewy, for example, often include a variety of grooming supplies suitable for longer coats.
Insurance and Health Considerations for Non-Standard Sighthounds
When you consider pet insurance, whether from Healthy Paws or another provider, the "breed" of your dog can play a role. For officially recognized breeds like the Whippet, insurers have clear data on common health issues, which influences premiums. With a Silken Windhound, because it's a newer and rarer breed, historical data might be less comprehensive, or premiums could reflect its unique genetic background.
For a mixed-breed "Long Haired Whippet," insurance companies will often classify them as a "mixed breed," which can sometimes result in different rates than purebreds. More importantly, if a dog is being misrepresented as a purebred, but carries unknown genetic markers from other breeds, it could potentially be predisposed to a wider range of health issues not typical for Whippets. This uncertainty could lead to unexpected vet bills down the line. Always prioritize health and responsible breeding, no matter the coat type. A raw food diet from providers like Ollie might be considered to support overall health, but the core considerations remain the same.
Disclaimer
This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Laws, prices and regulations vary by location and change over time. Consult a qualified professional for guidance on your specific situation.
