How much does a Whippet cost per year?

After the first year, a Whippet costs approximately $2,375 per year on average, covering food ($715), vet care ($545), grooming ($275), and insurance ($655).

mediumdog12 yr lifespan

How Much Does a Whippet Cost?

Q: Is a Whippet expensive to own?

Whippets have a lifetime ownership cost of approximately $30,185 over 12 years. The US national average for dog ownership is around $2,600/yr, so Whippets are below average in annual running costs.

The Whippet is a medium-sized dog whose ownership costs reflect its size, coat, and energy level. Routine preventive care — vaccinations, parasite control, and annual check-ups — makes up most of the ongoing vet budget. High energy levels mean a larger food budget and more spending on toys, exercise gear, and enrichment. Initial costs cover adoption or purchase, a first vet visit, and the basic supplies every new pet needs.

Get My Personalised Estimate

$4,060

First Year Total

inc. one-time setup

$2,375

Annual Ongoing

per year from year 2

$30,185

Lifetime Estimate

over 12 years

First Year Costs (inc. setup)

Purchase / Adoption Fee

Varies by breeder vs rescue

$335

Initial Vet Visit & Vaccinations

Spay/neuter, microchip, health check

$545

Starter Supplies

Bed, crate, collar, bowls, toys

$710

Training Classes

Basic obedience recommended

$280

First Year Food

$715

First Year Vet Care

$545

First Year Grooming

$275

First Year Insurance

$655

Total$4,060

Annual Ongoing Costs (Year 2+)

Food

$715

Vet Care

$545

Grooming

$275

Pet Insurance

$655

Supplies & Toys

$185

Total$2,375

Budget for emergencies

We recommend keeping $2,500 in a dedicated emergency fund for unexpected vet bills.

About the Whippet

The Whippet is a medium-sized dog breed with an average lifespan of 12 years. First-year ownership costs typically run around $4,060, which includes the purchase or adoption fee, initial vet visits, vaccinations, starter supplies, and the first year of food, grooming, and insurance.

From year two onwards, ongoing costs average $2,375 per year. The largest recurring expense is food at $715/year, followed by vet care at $545/year.

Over a 12-year lifespan, the total estimated cost of owning a Whippet is approximately $30,185. These figures are US national averages — your actual costs will vary based on your city, lifestyle, and whether you use a breeder or rescue organisation. Use our calculator above to get a personalised estimate.

How to save on Whippet costs

→Adopt, don't shop. Rescue organisations typically charge $150–$400 compared to $335+ from breeders. Adult dogs from shelters are often already vaccinated and desexed.
→Get pet insurance early. Whippets insured as puppies or kittens typically see lower premiums and fewer exclusions. At $655/year, insurance can save thousands on a single emergency.
→Buy food in bulk. Premium food for a medium dog costs $715/year on average. Buying 15–20kg bags and comparing brands can cut this by 20–30%.
→Build an emergency fund. We recommend $2,500 in a dedicated pet savings account. A single emergency surgery can cost $3,000–$8,000 without insurance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Whippet cost?

A Whippet typically costs $4,060 in the first year, including the purchase or adoption fee ($335), initial vet visits ($545), supplies ($710), and the first year of food, grooming, and insurance. Annual ongoing costs from year two are approximately $2,375/year.

How much does a Whippet cost per month?

After the first year, a Whippet costs approximately $198/month on average. This covers food ($60/month), vet care ($45/month), grooming ($23/month), and insurance ($55/month).

Is a Whippet expensive to own?

Whippets cost approximately $2,375/year to maintain — below the US national average of around $2,600/year for dog ownership. Over their 12-year lifespan, total costs come to around $30,185.

How much does a puppy Whippet cost?

A Whippet puppy from a reputable breeder typically costs $335. Rescue or shelter adoption fees are usually $150–$400 and often include initial vaccinations and desexing. Remember the purchase price is just one part of the first-year cost of $4,060.