Whippet Colors & Coat Guide
All recognized Whippet colors, coat types, genetics, and how color can impact pricing and health.
Whippet Colors Overview
The Whippet comes in several recognized coat colors. Comes in virtually every color and pattern; brindle is produced by the K-locus gene and blue by the dilution gene..
Coat color is determined by genetics, with some colors being dominant and others recessive. Understanding color genetics can help predict puppy colors and identify responsible breeding practices.
All Whippet Colors
The Whippet is recognized in 7 color variations. Standard colors are those accepted by major kennel clubs for conformation showing, while non-standard colors may occur naturally but are not eligible for the show ring. Both standard and non-standard colored Whippets make equally wonderful companions.
Standard vs Non-Standard Whippet Colors
Standard colors (7): Fawn, Blue, Brindle, Black, White, Red, Cream. These colors are accepted by the AKC and other major kennel clubs for conformation competition. Standard-colored Whippets are typically priced within the normal $800–$1500 range.
How Color Affects Whippet Price
| Standard colors | Normal pricing ($800–$1500) |
| Rare/unusual colors | Premium pricing (+$450–$750) |
While color can influence the price of a Whippet puppy, prospective owners should prioritize health testing, breeder reputation, and temperament over coat color. A responsibly bred Whippet in a common color with comprehensive health clearances is a better investment than a "rare" colored puppy from untested parents. The base price range for Whippets is $800–$1500, with color-based premiums adding to that range for certain variations.
Whippet Coat Type and Grooming
The Whippet's short and smooth coat requires grooming appropriate to its texture and density. With grooming needs rated 1/5 and shedding at 2/5, owners should plan their maintenance routine accordingly.
The Whippet's low-maintenance coat is one of the breed's practical advantages. Weekly brushing removes dead hair and promotes skin health, while baths are needed only when the dog is dirty or every 6–8 weeks. Grooming costs are modest at $65–79 per month, and most routine grooming can be handled at home with basic tools.
Regardless of coat color, all Whippets benefit from regular nail trimming every 2–3 weeks, ear cleaning weekly (especially for breeds with floppy ears), and dental care including brushing three or more times per week. These basic grooming tasks prevent common health problems and keep your dog comfortable.
Whippet Coat Genetics
Whippet coat color is controlled by several genes that determine pigment production and distribution. The primary genes include the E (extension) locus, A (agouti) locus, K (dominant black) locus, and B (brown) locus.
DNA color testing is available and can help breeders predict puppy colors and identify carriers of recessive genes. Comes in virtually every color and pattern; brindle is produced by the K-locus gene and blue by the dilution gene..
Rare vs Standard Whippet Colors
Among Whippets, the standard colors (Fawn, Blue, Brindle, Black, White, Red, Cream) are most common. With 7 recognized colors, variety exists even within the standard palette. Buyers should be cautious—extremely rare colors can sometimes be associated with health issues or may indicate crossbreeding.
Comes in virtually every color and pattern; brindle is produced by the K-locus gene and blue by the dilution gene..
Do Whippet Colors Change with Age?
Many Whippet puppies experience some degree of color change as they mature. Puppies may be born darker or lighter than their adult coat. Standard colors (Fawn, Blue, Brindle, Black, White, Red, Cream) typically stabilize as the puppy coat transitions to the adult coat between 4 and 12 months of age.
Choosing a Whippet by Color
When selecting a Whippet puppy, coat color is one of the most visible factors, but it should be among the last in your decision-making process. Here is a practical framework for evaluating color alongside more important factors:
- Health testing comes first: Both parents should have documented clearances for breed-relevant conditions including Mitral Valve Disease. No color is worth compromising on health documentation.
- Temperament matters more: Meet the puppies and both parents when possible. A well-socialized puppy with stable temperament from health-tested parents in a common color outweighs a "rare" colored puppy from an unknown background.
- Breeder reputation is essential: Reputable breeders prioritize producing healthy, well-tempered puppies and are transparent about all aspects of their program. They do not market "rare" or "exotic" colors at inflated prices.
- Then consider color: Once health, temperament, and breeder quality are confirmed, choose the color that appeals to you. All 7 recognized Whippet colors can produce healthy, happy companions.
Controversial Colors
When shopping for a Whippet, be skeptical of breeders who advertise unusual colors at prices above $1500. Non-standard colors beyond Fawn, Blue, Brindle, Black, White, Red, Cream can indicate mixed breeding or genes linked to health issues. Comes in virtually every color and pattern; brindle is produced by the K-locus gene and blue by the dilution gene..
Frequently Asked Questions
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