Bull Terrier vs Whippet

Terrier · Medium vs Hound · Medium

Quick take
  • Bull Terrier is the larger breed at 50–70 lbs (males) vs 25–40 lbs for the Whippet.
  • The Whippet typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Whippet sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBull TerrierWhippet
Group
TerrierHound
Size
MediumMedium
Origin
EnglandEngland
Height (male)
21–22"19–22"
Height (female)
21–22"18–21"
Weight (male)
50–70 lbs25–40 lbs
Weight (female)
50–70 lbs25–40 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–13 years12–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
shortshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Bull Terrier

The Bull Terrier is a playful, charming, mischievous egg-headed gladiator — Spuds MacKenzie, the original Target dog. Originally from England, this medium terrier breed typically weighs 50–70 lbs and lives 12–13 years. Breeders describe them as playful, charming, mischievous.

About the Whippet

The Whippet is an affectionate, playful, calm small sighthound — looks like a mini Greyhound, sprints like one too. Originally from England, this medium hound breed typically weighs 25–40 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, playful, calm.

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Bull Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Deafness
  • Heart disease
  • Skin issues
  • Kidney problems

Whippet health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Heart disease
  • Eye conditions
  • Anesthesia sensitivity