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Best Dog Foods For Whippet: Puppies, Adults & Seniors

Are you trying to find the right dog food formula for your Whippet puppy, adult, or senior? We review our favorite brands by comparing cost, quality, and more to provide the best recommendations for your dog.

Emma Braby Picture

Last Updated: February 29, 2024 | 13 min read

Whippet and cat are fed side by side in the kitchen

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The Whippet is lean and has the need for speed. To reach speeds of 35 mph (yes, you read that right), he needs the best nutrition to fuel his explosive energy. But it’s not just about speed for this guy. He needs the best food to develop into a healthy pooch.

Plus, he takes pride in his soft, velvety coat, which needs high-quality, healthy fats. So, where can you find all of this in one dog food?

Well, you’re in luck because we have spent hours researching the best dog foods for the Whippet. We’ll review every product that has made it onto our list and tell you why we love them, making it much easier for you to find the best option for your  Whippet. We’ll also let you into a few foodie secrets, from what particular nutrition he needs in each of his life stages. Plus, how to read an ingredients list and what specific ingredients to look for.

At A Glance: Our Favorite Foods For Irish Setters

Taste of the Wild Puppy Formula High Prairie
Our Rating

Best For Puppies

Taste of the Wild

The Farmer's Dog Food Products (3 flavors)
Our Rating

Best For Adults

The Farmer’s Dog

Blue Buffalo Wilderness Senior Dog Food
Our Rating

Best For Seniors

Blue Buffalo Wilderness

Note: Clicking the above links take you to Chewy.com or Amazon.com, where you can get additional product information and customer reviews. If you make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

Whippet puppy standing and eating out of a person's hand outside.
Puppy Whippets are super cute and diddy, and it’s hard to believe that they’ll eventually grow into powerful speed machines.

Whippet Puppy Nutrient Needs

At maturity, a Whippet will weigh between 25 to 40 pounds, making him a medium-sized canine. This makes finding him top-quality nutrition much easier than a small or large breed because he has a much bigger food selection to choose from.

It’s important to feed your pup food designed specifically for puppies. Puppy food tends to have more protein, fats, and energy than adult food because puppies need fuel to grow. It’s also important to choose high-quality ingredients. This is because budget products don’t contain the adequate nutrition needed for healthy development. And you want to give your Whippet the best start to life.

A sign of a good quality brand is that the first ingredient is meat, so be sure to read it for yourself. Protein is a crucial component in puppy nutrition because it contains amino acids, the building blocks in all living things. For his body and muscles to develop, good-quality protein is needed. The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) recommends that puppies need a minimum protein content of 22%.

The second most important nutritional aspect of a puppy’s diet is healthy omega fats. These are needed for energy, healthy skin and coat, joint support, cardiac health, vitamin and mineral absorption, and overall wellness. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and arachidonic acid (ARA) are particularly important. These are naturally found in mothers’ milk, and they are essential for cognitive and visual development. Look for ingredients such as fish, meat meals, flaxseed, oils, and eggs.

Eight months old Whippet dog with a bowl of kibble dog food against a white background.
Adulthood is all about achieving a well-balanced diet.

Adult Whippet Nutrient Needs

Your Whippet will be considered an adult from the age of 12 months. So when the time comes, you’ll need to have adult dog food ready. Adult food typically has less protein and fats because he has completed most of his growing by this age. AAFCO recommends that the minimum protein content needed for adult dogs is 18%, and meat should still be the first ingredient.

You don’t have to feed your adult the same food as you did in puppyhood, and there are many reasons why you might switch products. For example, your budget might have changed, products can be discontinued, and your pup’s dietary requirements can also change. But what you should always do is feed your Whippet a high-quality adult dog food to ensure that he remains as healthy as possible.

In addition to meat protein, Whippets need carbohydrates, fiber, omega fats, vitamins, and minerals. Carbohydrates come in the form of grains, such as rice, or veggies, such as sweet potatoes and peas. Prebiotic fibers such as chicory root or beet pulp are great for regular digestion. And probiotic ingredients such as dried lactobacillus plantarum fermentation products promote friendly bacteria in the gut.

Grey Whippet closeup eating out of a hand.
All dogs age at different rates.

Senior Whippet Nutrient Needs

As your Whippet approaches eight years of age, it’ll be time to switch him to senior dog food. When you notice your pooch is slowing down, both mentally and physically, it’s probably the right time. Again, you don’t have to feed the same product as before. Still, you will need to make the transition gradually to avoid stomach upset. Senior dogs have much more sensitive digestive systems.

Senior Whippets tend to have much less energy than they did before, and it’s unlikely they’ll beat their personal best speed. This means that he’ll need much less energy and fats than before. Otherwise, he’ll put on extra weight that senior frames do not need. Food made for senior dogs usually has higher fiber contents because fiber has zero to low calories. Plus, it helps to keep dogs feeling fuller for longer.

Senior dogs also need more glucosamine and chondroitin than ever before, as they support aching joints. Look at the ingredients list for meat meals, fish, fish oil, green-lipped mussels, animal cartilage, and added supplements. Another essential nutritional need is extra vitamins and minerals. Look for fruits and veggies and nutrient-dense ingredients such as dried kelp or seaweed meal as well as added supplements. These will aid in strong immunity to fight illness in old age.

Best Food For Whippet Puppies

Whippet puppies will be weaned off their mother’s milk at approximately six weeks old, so they’ll be ready for solid food by the time they come home to you. Be sure to ask your breeder what type of food he was on before, and make the transition gradual. Here are the best foods for Whippet puppies.


Taste of the Wild Puppy

Taste of the Wild Puppy Food HP
  • Grain-free recipe.
  • Made with bison and venison.
  • No corn, wheat, or fillers.
  • No artificial flavors.
  • 370 Calories per cup.
  • 32% Protein, 18% Fat, 4% Fiber.

Taste of the Wild is known for its tasty yet gentle formulas. The protein content is 28%, and the first two ingredients are water buffalo and lamb meal. Other tasty Prairie meats are listed, including roasted bison, roasted venison, beef, and Menhaden fish meal. With a vast array of amino acids, you can be sure that his growing and muscle maintenance needs are met.

This is a grain-free recipe that uses sweet potatoes and peas as a healthy carb alternative. They are also both prebiotic fibers that are great for achieving regular gut health. This recipe uses k9 strain probiotics, providing live microorganisms in every bite. With all these gut-friendly ingredients, you can be sure the digestive process will be smooth, and stools should be healthy.

We love that this formula is chicken-free and a great alternative for all pups intolerant of this most commonly used meat protein.

American Journey Large Breed Puppy

American Journey Large Breed Puppy Food
  • Budget-friendly.
  • Grain-free formula.
  • Contains DHA for brain health.
  • Nutrient-dense ingredients.
  • Real salmon contains fatty acids.
  • 352 Calories per cup.
  • 32% Protein, 14% Fat, 4.5% Fiber.

American Journey might be one of the newest brands on the pet food block, but they are proving to be very popular. Not only are they high-quality and nutritious, but they are also budget-friendly too. The first three ingredients are deboned chicken, chicken meal, and turkey meal. If your Whippet loves poultry flavor, this is bound to be a big hit.

This is a grain-inclusive recipe that lists wholesome brown rice as the primary grain. There aren’t many dogs out there who will turn their nose up at a simple yet delicious chicken and rice dish. Flaxseed, fish oil, and eggs products provide the all-important DHA and ARA fats for puppy development. There are lots of vitamin and mineral supplements and lots of prebiotic fiber for regular digestive health.

We love that this recipe lists lots of nutrient-dense ingredients and antioxidants, including dried kelp, cranberries, and blueberries, which are all great for developing puppy immune systems to fight illness and feel his best.

Earthborn Holistic Puppy Vantage

Earthborn Holistic Puppy Vantage
  • Chicken meal is the first ingredient.
  • Wholesome nutrient-rich ancient grains such as buckwheat, and pearled barley.
  • Superfoods including pumpkin, flaxseed, blueberries, cranberries, apples, carrots, and spinach help support excellent digestion and nutrient absorption.
  • Enriched with added Taurine and Methionine.
  • Made without peas, lentils, legumes, or white potato.
  • Has DHA is a long-chain Omega-3 fatty acid.

Earthborn Holistic is probably one of the lesser-known brands, but they are of excellent quality, which is why it has made it onto our list. This is a grain and gluten-free recipe that uses peas as the grain alternative. The protein content is 28%, and the first ingredient is chicken meal. Whitefish meal is also listed, which is rich in omega fats needed for eye and brain development.

Blueberries, cranberries, apples, carrots, and spinach are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, which are great for your pup’s developing immunity. Taurine is listed for cardiac health, and there are several probiotic ingredients to support the gastrointestinal tract. Fish oils, egg products, biotin, and folic acid work together to nourish his skin and coat from the inside out.

We love that this formula has the highest omega-three fatty acid content, making it a top choice for overall puppy development.

Blue Buffalo Wilderness Puppy

Blue Buffalo Wilderness Puppy Food
  • Grain-free formula.
  • Contains real chicken.
  • DHA for brain development.
  • No corn, soy, or wheat.
  • No fillers or byproducts.
  • 423 Calories per cup.
  • 36% Protein, 16% Fat, 5% Fiber.

Blue Buffalo is a well-known brand that creates a wide array of products and formulas, and this option is our top choice for Whippet pups. This formula is from the Wilderness range, which is a higher protein option. The first two ingredients are chicken and chicken meal, which contribute to a protein content of 36%. Menhaden fish meal, egg, flaxseed, and extra fish oil ensure that his puppy’s development is supported with high levels of healthy omega fats.

Blue Buffalo’s exclusive LifeSource Bits are included in this recipe. These are extra kibble pieces packed with a precise blend of superfoods and other nutrients needed for puppy development. Taurine is listed for cardiac health, and dried kelp, cranberries, and blueberries ensure that his immune system is boosted. There are also plenty of probiotics to support gut health.

We love that this formula has the highest protein content of all the Whippet puppy picks we have chosen, making this a great choice for super bouncy pups who need the extra energy. Or those who are fussy for super meaty recipes.

Purina Pro Puppy Sensitive Stomach

Purina Pro Puppy Sensitive Skin
  • Probiotics for sensitive stomachs.
  • Omega fatty acids for skin and coat.
  • DHA for brain development.
  • Antioxidant boost for immune health.
  • Salmon is the first ingredient.
  • 428 Calories per cup.
  • 28% Protein, 18% Fat, 3% Fiber.

Whippets are known for having sensitive digestive systems, so we have included this option in our puppy list. Every ingredient is chosen for a specific nutritional or functional purpose for pups with sensitive skin and stomachs. Salmon is the first ingredient, with fish meal and fish oil being listed soon after. If nourishes the skin from the inside out, producing a healthy, shiny coat.

This is a grain-inclusive diet that lists gentle rice and barley to help support regular digestion. Canola oil is high in omega-three fatty acids, and it is great for coat health. The kibble pieces are fortified with probiotics, too, for smoother digestion. This product also has the highest calorie count per cup, so it is ideal for extra bouncy Whippet puppies.

We love that this recipe is designed especially with sensitive puppies in mind. If your Whippet has a delicate stomach or skin, this is a top pick for him.

Best Food For Adult Whippets

By the time your Whippet pup reaches 12 months old, he’ll have completed most of his growing, making it time to switch him to adult food. Pick a product that suits your Whippet and his lifestyle best, be that an energetic or not-so-active lifestyle. Here are our favorite picks for adult Whippets.

The Farmer's Dog

The Farmer's Dog Food Products (3 flavors)
  • Cooked fresh, flash-frozen, and shipped to you.
  • Personalized meal plans.
  • 4 healthy, vet-designed options: beef, chicken, turkey, or pork.
  • Made with human-grade ingredients (no fillers or preservatives).
  • Manufactured in the United States.
  • Calories and nutritional values vary based on recipe.

The Farmer’s Dog makes wholesome food that dogs love. Since the first ingredient in each of the four recipes is a whole protein source, your canine’s muscles will grow strong and stay healthy for the long run.

The fresh, human-grade produce also packs in loads of fiber and vitamins for the ultimate balanced nutrition, confirmed by veterinary experts. The added supplements also support strong bones and joints.

We love that these premium recipes are so healthy and tasty that you could even eat them. With fresh cooked and flash-frozen goodness in every pack, your Whippet is sure to love it. And you’ll love the convenience of home delivery as well!

Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream

Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream Dog Food
  • Grain-free formula.
  • Antioxidants from real vegetables.
  • Fatty acids for skin and coat health.
  • No grain, corn, wheat, or fillers.
  • Made in the United States.
  • 360 Calories per cup.
  • 25% Protein, 15% Fat, 3% Fiber.

This choice is slightly different from our Taste of the Wild puppy recommendation, but only because it is a different flavor option. This Wild Pacific Stream formula is chicken-free and instead uses only fish sources, including salmon, ocean fish meal, and salmon meal. It is full of yummy fishy taste that most dogs love, plus it’s great for the condition of his skin and coat.

This is a grain-free option that uses sweet potatoes and potatoes as slow-release energy ingredients. Antioxidant-rich foods such as blueberries and raspberries continue to support his immunity. And there is a long list of probiotic ingredients that will ensure a smooth digestive ride. Plus, yucca schidigera is known for reducing gas odor, which is always a big hit with humans.

We love that this recipe is chicken-free, making it a great option for Whippets who turn their nose up at or are intolerant of this commonly used meat source.

Victor Classic Hi-Pro Plus

Victor Hi Pro Dog Food
  • Budget-friendly formula.
  • Made with 88% meat protein.
  • Ideal for sporting and active breeds.
  • Nutrient-dense antioxidant boost.
  • Crafted for superior digestion.
  • 406 Calories per cup.
  • 30% Protein, 20% Fat, 3.8% Fiber.

 

This is our favorite choice for super energetic or working Whippets, which is why it is called the high-performance formula. It is designed with optimized nutrients and ratios to supply high and focused energy. The protein content is 30%, with the first ingredient being beef meal. Pork meal, chicken meal, and Menhaden fish meal provide an extra boost of amino acids for best muscle care.

This recipe is made with gluten-free grains such as sorghum and millet, which are easier to digest for many Whippets. Nutrient-dense ingredients such as blood meal and organic seaweed meal are full of nutrients and minerals for healthy immunity and strong bones. Probiotics are added to the formula to assist with smooth digestion. And L-carnitine stimulates metabolism to help process this rich formula.

We love that this formula is a great choice for active or working Whippets, thanks to the optimum 30/20 (protein to fat) ratio.

Blue Buffalo Wilderness Adult

Blue Buffalo Wilderness Adult Grain Free
  • Grain-free formula.
  • No by-product meals.
  • No corn, wheat, or soy.
  • No artificial preservatives.
  • Rich in antioxidants & healthy carbohydrates.
  • 409 Calories per cup.
  • 34% Protein, 15% Fat, 6% Fiber.

This option is the next in line after our Blue Buffalo puppy recommendation. One of the best-rated Blue Buffalo formulas, this option is a great pick for your beautiful Whippet. The high protein content is 34%, with deboned chicken and chicken meal being the first two ingredients. Menhaden fish meal and dried egg also make an appearance to boost the DHA and ARA for continued cognitive support.

Like before, the LifeSource Bits are optimized with antioxidants and other nutrients, but this time selected for adult health. The fiber content is high at 6%, making this a great option for those who suffer from poor stool health. Or Whippets who need to feel fuller in between mealtimes. Probiotics are listed too for smoother digestive health.

We love that this recipe has the highest protein content, making it a top pick for adult Whippets who crave a big, meaty taste.

Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Stomach

Purina Pro Sensitive Stomach Adult
  • High-protein content.
  • Salmon is the first ingredient.
  • Fortified with probiotics.
  • Prebiotic fiber for digestive health.
  • Made with digestible oatmeal and rice.
  • 467 Calories per cup.
  • 26% Protein, 16% Fat, 4% Fiber.

If your Whippet loved this recipe as a pup, he is sure to do well on it as an adult, especially if it relieved his sensitive skin and stomach. This is a grain-inclusive recipe that uses barley and rice as the two primary grains. It does not use corn, wheat, or soy, which can aggravate some doggy digestive systems.

The protein content is 26%, and salmon is the first ingredient. Fish meal, salmon meal, and extra fish oil will nourish skin, leaving it supple. And, in turn, maintain a healthy coat. A blend of vitamin and mineral supplements ensures that his immune system is kept strong to fight illness.

We love that this formula is the best option for adult Whippets who have a particularly sensitive stomach or skin, thanks to the carefully selected ingredients.

Best Food For Senior Whippets

As your Whippet approaches the age of eight years, you’ll need to gradually switch him to senior food. Here are our favorite choices for aging Whippets.

Blue Buffalo Wilderness Senior

Blue Buffalo Wilderness Senior Formula
  • Antioxidant boost for aging dogs.
  • Protein-rich for muscle maintenance.
  • Chicken is the first ingredient.
  • No by-product meals.
  • Free of corn, wheat, or soy.
  • 387 calories per cup.
  • 30% Protein, 12% Fat, 7% Fiber.

This recipe is the only option that has been featured in every life stage recommendation. If your Whippet has thrived on it throughout his entire life, this is the best pick for him. The protein content is high at 30%, and deboned chicken and chicken meal are the first two ingredients. Menhaden fish meal provides an extra boost of omega fats and protein.

The fiber content is 7%, which is the highest. This makes this formula a great choice for forever-hungry Whippets. Or those who suffer from poor stool health or constipation. Probiotics promote friendly bacteria in his gut. LifeSource Bits are still a huge feature in this kibble, optimized with nutrients specifically for senior dogs. Dried kelp helps to keep bones and teeth strong.

We love that this formula has the highest omega-three fatty acid content, which is great for drying senior coats and overall wellness.

American Journey Senior Formula

American Journey Senior Recipe
  • Budget-friendly formula.
  • Grain-free recipe.
  • MCT’s for brain health.
  • Antioxidants for immune health.
  • Glucosamine boost for joint health.
  • 329 Calories per cup.
  • 32% Protein, 10% Fat, 7% Fiber.

This recipe has a high protein content, which will suit active or fussy Whippets. The first ingredient is deboned salmon, with turkey meal and chicken meal also listed for an extra amino acid boost. Meat meals are rich in glucosamine for aging joints, making this a great option for Whippets and their previously hardworking joints.

This option lists many nutrient-dense ingredients for which his aging immune system will be very grateful. Microalgae, dried kelp, and blueberries will help maintain a healthy oxidative state and keep bones strong. This is a grain-free pick that instead uses sweet potato and pumpkin. Pumpkin is known for its soothing digestive properties, which are further supported by probiotics.

We love that it offers the highest protein content for the best muscle maintenance on our senior list, making this a top choice for active senior Whippets who still have the need for speed.

Merrick Grain-Free Senior Formula

Merrick Senior Dog Food Formula
  • Grain-free formula.
  • Made with real deboned chicken.
  • Perfect balance of protein and fats.
  • Glucosamine for joint support.
  • 77% of protein from animal sources.
  • 370 Calories per cup.
  • 30% Protein, 12% Fat, 3.5% Fiber.

This recipe also has a high protein content, which is 30%. Deboned chicken and chicken meal are the first two ingredients, with turkey meal and salmon meal shortly after. Meat meals, sunflower oil, and salmon oil will keep his aging coat looking and feeling velvety. Plus, they will help support continued cognitive function and vision.

Fresh fruits and veggies such as apples, blueberries, and sweet potatoes, along with vitamin and mineral supplements, will keep him fighting fit. This formula is also fortified in probiotics for smoother digestion. L-carnitine is also listed, stimulating his metabolism to help keep him trim and lean despite this relatively rich formula.

We love that it has the highest glucosamine levels. This makes this option a great choice for Whippets who need a little extra joint support.

Hill’s Science Diet Senior

Science Diet Senior Vitality
  • Antioxidants boost immune health.
  • Omega fatty acids for skin and coat health.
  • L-carnitine for muscle retention.
  • Easy to digest formula.
  • Veterinarian endorsed brand.
  • 363 Calories per cup.
  • 19% Protein, 11% Fat, 3% Fiber

This recipe is made by scientists who have studied the needs of senior dogs. Everything is chosen according to scientific research. This formula offers the lowest protein content on this list, which is 19%. It still exceeds AAFCO requirements, but it is low enough for dogs who cannot process rich, meaty recipes. Chicken is still the first ingredient.

This formula is designed to keep aging dogs feeling youthful and vitality. This is a grain-inclusive recipe that uses rice and barley as the main grains, which are relatively simple to digest. The fiber content is low, but this might be useful for Whippets who find too much fiber prevents smooth digestion. Essential fatty acids are listed to keep his coat soft and shiny.

We love that it is packed full of powerful antioxidants that support continued cognitive function and provide a boost of youth-preserving goodness.

Nutro Ultra Senior

Nutro Ultra Senior
  • Limited ingredient food.
  • Made from lean animal proteins.
  • Contains glucosamine boost for seniors.
  • No artificial colors or flavors.
  • Omega fatty acids for skin & coat health.
  • 316 Calories per cup.
  • 26% Protein, 11% Fat, 4% Fiber.

This option is designed specifically for senior dogs looking for a vast array of proteins, vitamins, and minerals to keep them strong and fit. Hence the name, the superfood plate. The protein content is 26%, so it is still meaty but not too rich for older Whippets with sensitive guts. Chicken and chicken meal are the first two ingredients, with lamb meal and salmon meal following shortly after.

This is a grain-inclusive recipe that lists wholesome brown rice as the primary grain. Ingredients such as coconut, chia seed, egg, kale, pumpkin, spinach, blueberries, apples, and carrots are rich in antioxidants. And that all helps to keep your Whippet looking and feeling his best. Vitamin E, biotin, zinc, and folic acid, along with the fish oils, will keep his skin and coat nourished.

We love that this recipe is labeled the superfood plate because of the vast array of antioxidants and superfoods. Your older Whippet’s immunity is in good hands with this kibble.

Final Thoughts

You have now reached the end of our nutritional guide to Whippet nutrition. Now you are equipped with the knowledge about what your Whippet needs when he needs it and what ingredients to look for. There is something here for every Whippet and every owner’s budget. As long as you consider your Whippet’s own dietary needs (if there are any), you are sure to find a match made in nutritional heaven with any one of our recommendations above.

Whippet Mix

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The information provided through this website should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease; it is not intended to offer any legal opinion or advice or a substitute for professional safety or care advice. Please consult your health care provider, attorney, insurance expert, or product manual for professional advice. Products and services reviewed are provided by third parties; we are not responsible in any way for them, nor do we guarantee their functionality, utility, safety, or reliability. Our content is for educational purposes only.

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