From the Research
Yes, a whippet with an infection may develop a low body temperature, which is known as hypothermia. While fever (elevated temperature) is a more common response to infection, some dogs, particularly sighthounds like whippets, can actually develop hypothermia when fighting infections. This is especially true for whippets since they naturally have less body fat, thinner skin, and a higher surface-area-to-volume ratio than many other breeds. Normal temperature for dogs is between 100.5-102.5°F (38-39.2°C), and a temperature below 99°F (37.2°C) in a whippet with other signs of infection (lethargy, decreased appetite, unusual discharge, etc.) should prompt immediate veterinary attention. Treatment will depend on the specific infection but may include antibiotics such as amoxicillin-clavulanate (12.5-25 mg/kg twice daily) or cephalexin (22-30 mg/kg twice daily) for bacterial infections, along with supportive care to raise body temperature safely using warming blankets and monitoring. Never use direct heat sources like heating pads without veterinary supervision as they can cause burns.
Some key points to consider when treating a whippet with an infection include:
- Monitoring temperature closely and seeking veterinary attention if it drops below 99°F (37.2°C)
- Using antibiotics as prescribed by a veterinarian, such as amoxicillin-clavulanate or cephalexin, for bacterial infections
- Providing supportive care, including warming blankets and monitoring, to raise body temperature safely
- Avoiding direct heat sources like heating pads without veterinary supervision
It's also important to note that antimicrobial resistance is a growing concern, and antibiotics should only be used when necessary and under the guidance of a veterinarian 1, 2. In addition, studies have shown that adherence to published guidelines for antimicrobial use in veterinary medicine is poor, and efforts to guide antimicrobial use are having positive effects 3, 2. However, more research is needed to fully understand the best practices for treating infections in whippets and other breeds.
In terms of specific antimicrobial prescribing practices, a study published in 2022 found that the proportion of visits resulting in no antimicrobial prescription increased over a 10-year period, and the proportion of prescriptions for amoxicillin and amoxicillin-clavulanic acid also increased 2. Another study published in 2020 found that antimicrobial prescription was common in both emergency and critical care services, and adherence to published guidelines for urinary and respiratory infections was poor 3. A study published in 2025 found that treatment guidelines recommend rapidly treating all patients with suspected sepsis with broad-spectrum antibiotics, which may contribute to antibiotic overuse 4.
Overall, it's essential to work closely with a veterinarian to determine the best course of treatment for a whippet with an infection, taking into account the specific circumstances and the latest research and guidelines.