Smooth Fox Terrier vs Whippet
Terrier · Small vs Hound · Medium
Smooth Fox TerrierSmall
A friendly, independent, amusing English fox-bolter — sleek smooth-coated cousin of Wire Fox.
Weight: 17–19 lbsLifespan: 12–15 years
WhippetMedium
An affectionate, playful, calm small sighthound — looks like a mini Greyhound, sprints like one too.
Weight: 25–40 lbsLifespan: 12–15 years
Quick take
- • Whippet is the larger breed at 25–40 lbs (males) vs 17–19 lbs for the Smooth Fox Terrier.
- • The Smooth Fox Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Whippet sheds less.
- • The Smooth Fox Terrier is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Smooth Fox Terrier | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
Group | Terrier | Hound |
Size | Small | Medium |
Origin | England | England |
Height (male) | 15" | 19–22" |
Height (female) | 15" | 18–21" |
Weight (male) | 17–19 lbs | 25–40 lbs |
Weight (female) | 15–17 lbs | 25–40 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–15 years | 12–15 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | High (4/5) | 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. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | High (4/5) | 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 | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Moderate (3/5) | Low (2/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Coat length | short | short |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | No |
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About the Smooth Fox Terrier
The Smooth Fox Terrier is a friendly, independent, amusing English fox-bolter — sleek smooth-coated cousin of Wire Fox. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 17–19 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, independent, amusing.
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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Smooth Fox Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Patellar luxation
- • Eye disorders
- • Deafness
Whippet health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Heart disease
- • Eye conditions
- • Anesthesia sensitivity