Italian Greyhound

Italian Greyhounds are graceful and affectionate toy dogs with sleek coats and expressive eyes. They are intelligent and active companions that thrive on attention. Their small size makes them ideal for apartment living.

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Italian Greyhound Breed overview

Italian Greyhounds are small, delicate dogs that make loyal and affectionate companions. They are a high-energy breed that require daily exercise and playtime to stay healthy and happy. They are good with other dogs, but may be reserved around strangers or young children. While they can be challenging to train, they respond well to positive reinforcement and benefit from early socialization, regular vet checkups, and a loving, stable home environment. Overall, the Italian Greyhound is a well-loved breed that is known for their playful spirit, devotion to their owners, and unique charm.

Height:
13-15 inches
Weight:
6-15 lbs
Life expectancy:
14-15 years

What To Expect When Caring For a Italian Greyhound

Grooming

Italian Greyhounds have short, fine coats that require minimal grooming.

They should be brushed weekly to remove any loose hair and prevent matting. Their nails should be trimmed regularly to prevent overgrowth, and their teeth should be brushed regularly to prevent dental issues.

Baths should be given as needed, and care should be taken to avoid getting water in their ears, which can lead to infections.

Exercise

Despite their small size, Italian Greyhounds are active dogs that require regular exercise.

They enjoy short walks and play sessions, and thrive on having access to a safely enclosed yard or outdoor space where they can run and play.

Italian Greyhounds should always be supervised when outside, as they are quick and agile and may be able to escape or get into dangerous situations.

Health

Italian Greyhounds are generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain health issues.

Some of the most common health problems in Italian Greyhounds include dental issues, luxating patellas, and eye problems such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy.

Regular visits to the veterinarian and a healthy diet and exercise regimen can help to keep Italian Greyhounds healthy and happy.

Nutrition

Italian Greyhounds should be fed a high-quality dog food that is appropriate for their age, weight, and activity level.

They may be prone to obesity, so it is important to monitor their calorie intake and provide them with regular exercise.

Treats should be given in moderation and should not make up a significant portion of their diet.

Training

Italian Greyhounds are intelligent and eager to please, and generally respond well to positive reinforcement training methods.

They may be sensitive to harsh training techniques and should be handled with patience and gentleness.

Italian Greyhounds can be trained to do well in obedience and agility competitions, and they also make excellent therapy dogs due to their affectionate and gentle nature.

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Italian Greyhound Traits & Characteristics

Italian Greyhounds are recognized by the American Kennel Club and have a breed standard that outlines their ideal characteristics.

According to the AKC standard, Italian Greyhounds should have long, elegant legs and a deep, narrow chest. Their heads should be long and narrow with a slight stop, and their ears should be small and folded back. They should have a gentle and affectionate temperament, and be intelligent and eager to please.

The breed standard also notes that Italian Greyhounds should be free of any serious health problems and have a lifespan of around 12 to 15 years.

Affection

The degree to which a breed shows love and affection towards its human family members.

independent lovey-dovey

The Italian Greyhound is an affectionate breed that loves to spend time with their human family. They crave attention and love to cuddle up on laps or snuggle with their owners in bed at night. They are loyal and devoted pets, often bonding closely with one or two family members more than others.

Children

How well a breed interacts with children, including tolerance for play and energy level.

not suitable for kids great with kids

Italian Greyhounds are generally not recommended for families with young children, as they can be easily injured due to their fragile nature. However, they are good with older, more considerate children who know how to interact with small dogs. Their high energy level can make them great playmates for older kids.

Dogs

The breed's friendliness and sociability towards other dogs.

not dog friendly very dog friendly

Italian Greyhounds are generally good with other dogs, especially if they are socialized from an early age. They are playful and enjoy the company of other dogs, both big and small. However, they can be timid around larger dogs and may become scared if confronted by an aggressive dog.

Strangers

The breed's reaction to unfamiliar people, including whether they tend to be wary or friendly.

reserved with strangers friendly with everyone

Italian Greyhounds can be reserved or shy around strangers, but they are not typically aggressive. Early socialization and training can help them become more comfortable around new people. They are also protective of their owners and may bark or become vocal if they sense a threat.

Playfulness

The breed's activity level and tendency to engage in play and games.

laid-back very playful

Italian Greyhounds are energetic and playful breed that love to play and run around. They have a high activity level and require daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. They also enjoy playing with toys and engaging in interactive games with their owners.

Alertness

The breed's level of awareness and vigilance, which can affect their ability to perform certain tasks or jobs

less alert very alert

Italian Greyhounds are a moderately alert breed that are good at sensing changes in their environment. They are not typically used as guard dogs, but their keen sense of hearing and sight make them good watchdogs. They may bark if they sense danger or if there's an unfamiliar person or animal nearby.

Adaptability

The breed's ability to adjust to new environments and situations, including whether they are adaptable or may become stressed.

less adaptable very adaptable

Italian Greyhounds can adapt well to apartment living or life in the city, as long as they get enough exercise and mental stimulation. They are also adaptable to changes in routine or environment, but may become stressed or anxious without proper socialization and training.

Shedding

The amount of hair a breed sheds, which can affect allergies and cleanliness.

no shedding hair everywhere

Italian Greyhounds have a short, smooth coat that shed lightly year-round. They are considered a low-shedding breed, but may still require regular brushing to remove loose hair and prevent matting. They are a good choice for people with mild allergies.

Grooming

The amount of maintenance required to keep a breed's coat healthy and clean.

low maintenance high maintenance

Italian Greyhounds have a short, easy-to-care-for coat that requires minimal grooming. They do not have an undercoat, so shedding is minimal. They may need their nails trimmed regularly as they tend to grow quickly. And, since they have large, expressive eyes, it's important to clean them regularly to prevent eye problems.

Drooling

The amount of saliva a breed produces, which can affect cleanliness and potential drool-related issues.

dry mouthed heavy drooler

Italian Greyhounds are a low-drooling breed. They do not have excessive drool or slobber like some other breeds, so there's little to no risk of getting slobbered on or having to wipe their faces constantly.

Size

The breed's overall size, including their weight and height.

very small very large

Italian Greyhounds are a small breed, typically weighing between 6 and 15 pounds and standing 13 to 15 inches tall at the shoulder. They are a delicate, lightweight dog that require gentle handling and care.

Energy

The breed's overall activity level, including their need for exercise and play.

couch potato high energy

Italian Greyhounds are a high-energy breed that require daily exercise and playtime to stay healthy and happy. They love to run and play, both indoors and outdoors. They do well with activities such as agility or obedience training that challenge their minds and bodies.

Exercise

The breed's need for physical activity and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

low exercise needs high exercise needs

Italian Greyhounds have a high energy level and require daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. They enjoy going for walks, playing games, and engaging in interactive activities with their owners. They also thrive in agility, obedience training and other sports that challenge their minds and bodies.

Working

The breed's suitability for working and performing certain tasks or jobs.

not suitable for working great for working

Italian Greyhounds are not typically used for working or performing specific tasks or jobs. They are primarily companion animals that thrive on close human interaction and playtime with their owners.

Hunting

The breed's natural hunting abilities, including their prey drive, scenting abilities, and tracking skills.

not suitable for hunting great for hunting

Italian Greyhounds are not typically used as hunting dogs, though they do have a high prey drive and love to chase small animals. They can be trained to hunt or compete in lure coursing, but their small size and delicate nature may make this activity risky for them.

Vigor

The breed's physical stamina and endurance, including their ability to maintain high levels of activity and energy.

low-drive high vigor

Italian Greyhounds have moderate physical stamina and are typically energetic and playful pets. However, they can tire easily and may need rest breaks during long walks or play sessions. They do well with daily exercise that is appropriate for their age and energy level.

Health

The breed's overall health and potential health issues, including whether they may be prone to certain illnesses or conditions.

less healthy very healthy

Italian Greyhounds are generally healthy dogs, but may be prone to certain health issues such as dental problems or skin allergies. They can also develop eye problems, hip dysplasia or heart disease. Regular vet checkups and early treatment of any potential health problems can help ensure a long and healthy life for your Italian Greyhound.

Obesity

The breed's tendency to gain weight and become overweight or obese, including whether they require extra monitoring and exercise.

not prone to obesity highly prone to obesity

Italian Greyhounds can be prone to obesity if overfed or under-exercised. They have a small, delicate build and excess weight can put stress on their bones and organs. It's important to monitor their food intake, provide regular exercise, and avoid over-treating them with high calorie treats or table scraps.

Cold

The breed's ability to tolerate cold weather conditions, including whether they require extra warmth and protection.

not cold tolerant high cold tolerance

Italian Greyhounds are not particularly cold-tolerant dogs and may need extra warmth in chilly weather. They do not have an undercoat like some breeds, and their thin skin and short fur make them susceptible to the cold. Sweaters, coats, and indoor heating can help keep them warm in colder temperatures.

Heat

The breed's ability to tolerate hot weather conditions, including whether they require extra cooling and protection.

not heat tolerant high heat tolerance

Italian Greyhounds are sensitive to high temperatures due to their thin skin and lack of insulating undercoat. They should be kept in a cool, air-conditioned environment during hot weather, and should always have access to fresh water. Outdoor exercise should be scheduled during cooler parts of the day to avoid heatstroke or dehydration.

Apartment

The breed's suitability for new or inexperienced dog owners, including their trainability and temperament.

not suitable for apartments great for apartments

Italian Greyhounds can do well in apartments or smaller living spaces, as long as they have access to daily exercise and mental stimulation. They are a quiet breed that do not require a lot of space, but do need regular access to outdoor areas for bathroom breaks and exercise.

Wanderlust

The breed's tendency to wander or roam, including whether they may become lost or require a lot of supervision.

less likely to wander very likely to wander

Italian Greyhounds have a moderate tendency to wander or roam, especially if they catch sight of something small and furry in the distance. It is important to keep them on a leash when outside or in an unfenced area to prevent them from running off or getting lost.

Sensitivity

The breed's sensitivity to criticism or negative reinforcement, including whether they may become stressed or anxious.

less sensitive very sensitive

Italian Greyhounds can be sensitive to criticism or negative reinforcement, and may become anxious or stressed if they sense tension in their environment. They respond best to positive reinforcement techniques and benefit from a calm, stable home environment with lots of love and attention.

Separation

The breed's tolerance for being left alone, including whether they may become anxious or destructive.

not suitable for alone time great at being alone

Italian Greyhounds may not do well with extended periods of time alone, as they can become anxious and destructive when left for long periods. They typically do best with a consistent routine and regular company. Crate training and having a safe space or quiet area in the home can help them feel more secure when left alone.

Barking

The amount of barking a breed tends to do, including whether they may be vocal or prone to excessive barking.

quiet very vocal

Italian Greyhounds are not excessively vocal dogs, and tend to bark only when necessary. They may bark to alert their owners to danger or to communicate their needs, but are generally not prone to nuisance barking. Excessive barking can be a sign of anxiety, stress or lack of exercise.

Mental

The breed's need for mental stimulation and engagement, including whether they are intelligent and require challenging activities.

happy to lounge needs a job or activity

Italian Greyhounds are intelligent dogs that love to learn and be stimulated mentally. They enjoy puzzle toys, interactive games, and engaging in activities with their owners that challenge their minds. Mental stimulation is important to their overall health and happiness.

Novice_owners

Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.

not suitable for novice owners great for novice owners

Italian Greyhounds may not be the best choice for novice dog owners due to their stubborn nature and challenges with training. They require consistent and positive training methods to become well-behaved pets. However, with early socialization and patience, they can make a loyal and affectionate companion for the right owner.

Trainability

The ease of training a breed, including whether they are intelligent, obedient, and willing to learn.

difficult to train easy to train

Italian Greyhounds can be challenging to train due to their stubborn nature and short attention span. They respond best to positive reinforcement training methods, and may require extra patience and persistence to master basic obedience commands. Early socialization and consistent training can help create a well-behaved adult dog.

Affection

independent lovey-dovey

The degree to which a breed shows love and affection towards its human family members.

The Italian Greyhound is an affectionate breed that loves to spend time with their human family. They crave attention and love to cuddle up on laps or snuggle with their owners in bed at night. They are loyal and devoted pets, often bonding closely with one or two family members more than others.

Children

not suitable for kids great with kids

How well a breed interacts with children, including tolerance for play and energy level.

Italian Greyhounds are generally not recommended for families with young children, as they can be easily injured due to their fragile nature. However, they are good with older, more considerate children who know how to interact with small dogs. Their high energy level can make them great playmates for older kids.

Dogs

not dog friendly very dog friendly

The breed's friendliness and sociability towards other dogs.

Italian Greyhounds are generally good with other dogs, especially if they are socialized from an early age. They are playful and enjoy the company of other dogs, both big and small. However, they can be timid around larger dogs and may become scared if confronted by an aggressive dog.

Strangers

reserved with strangers friendly with everyone

The breed's reaction to unfamiliar people, including whether they tend to be wary or friendly.

Italian Greyhounds can be reserved or shy around strangers, but they are not typically aggressive. Early socialization and training can help them become more comfortable around new people. They are also protective of their owners and may bark or become vocal if they sense a threat.

Playfulness

laid-back very playful

The breed's activity level and tendency to engage in play and games.

Italian Greyhounds are energetic and playful breed that love to play and run around. They have a high activity level and require daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. They also enjoy playing with toys and engaging in interactive games with their owners.

Alertness

less alert very alert

The breed's level of awareness and vigilance, which can affect their ability to perform certain tasks or jobs

Italian Greyhounds are a moderately alert breed that are good at sensing changes in their environment. They are not typically used as guard dogs, but their keen sense of hearing and sight make them good watchdogs. They may bark if they sense danger or if there's an unfamiliar person or animal nearby.

Adaptability

less adaptable very adaptable

The breed's ability to adjust to new environments and situations, including whether they are adaptable or may become stressed.

Italian Greyhounds can adapt well to apartment living or life in the city, as long as they get enough exercise and mental stimulation. They are also adaptable to changes in routine or environment, but may become stressed or anxious without proper socialization and training.

Shedding

no shedding hair everywhere

The amount of hair a breed sheds, which can affect allergies and cleanliness.

Italian Greyhounds have a short, smooth coat that shed lightly year-round. They are considered a low-shedding breed, but may still require regular brushing to remove loose hair and prevent matting. They are a good choice for people with mild allergies.

Grooming

low maintenance high maintenance

The amount of maintenance required to keep a breed's coat healthy and clean.

Italian Greyhounds have a short, easy-to-care-for coat that requires minimal grooming. They do not have an undercoat, so shedding is minimal. They may need their nails trimmed regularly as they tend to grow quickly. And, since they have large, expressive eyes, it's important to clean them regularly to prevent eye problems.

Drooling

dry mouthed heavy drooler

The amount of saliva a breed produces, which can affect cleanliness and potential drool-related issues.

Italian Greyhounds are a low-drooling breed. They do not have excessive drool or slobber like some other breeds, so there's little to no risk of getting slobbered on or having to wipe their faces constantly.

Size

very small very large

The breed's overall size, including their weight and height.

Italian Greyhounds are a small breed, typically weighing between 6 and 15 pounds and standing 13 to 15 inches tall at the shoulder. They are a delicate, lightweight dog that require gentle handling and care.

Energy

couch potato high energy

The breed's overall activity level, including their need for exercise and play.

Italian Greyhounds are a high-energy breed that require daily exercise and playtime to stay healthy and happy. They love to run and play, both indoors and outdoors. They do well with activities such as agility or obedience training that challenge their minds and bodies.

Exercise

low exercise needs high exercise needs

The breed's need for physical activity and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Italian Greyhounds have a high energy level and require daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. They enjoy going for walks, playing games, and engaging in interactive activities with their owners. They also thrive in agility, obedience training and other sports that challenge their minds and bodies.

Working

not suitable for working great for working

The breed's suitability for working and performing certain tasks or jobs.

Italian Greyhounds are not typically used for working or performing specific tasks or jobs. They are primarily companion animals that thrive on close human interaction and playtime with their owners.

Hunting

not suitable for hunting great for hunting

The breed's natural hunting abilities, including their prey drive, scenting abilities, and tracking skills.

Italian Greyhounds are not typically used as hunting dogs, though they do have a high prey drive and love to chase small animals. They can be trained to hunt or compete in lure coursing, but their small size and delicate nature may make this activity risky for them.

Vigor

low-drive high vigor

The breed's physical stamina and endurance, including their ability to maintain high levels of activity and energy.

Italian Greyhounds have moderate physical stamina and are typically energetic and playful pets. However, they can tire easily and may need rest breaks during long walks or play sessions. They do well with daily exercise that is appropriate for their age and energy level.

Health

less healthy very healthy

The breed's overall health and potential health issues, including whether they may be prone to certain illnesses or conditions.

Italian Greyhounds are generally healthy dogs, but may be prone to certain health issues such as dental problems or skin allergies. They can also develop eye problems, hip dysplasia or heart disease. Regular vet checkups and early treatment of any potential health problems can help ensure a long and healthy life for your Italian Greyhound.

Obesity

not prone to obesity highly prone to obesity

The breed's tendency to gain weight and become overweight or obese, including whether they require extra monitoring and exercise.

Italian Greyhounds can be prone to obesity if overfed or under-exercised. They have a small, delicate build and excess weight can put stress on their bones and organs. It's important to monitor their food intake, provide regular exercise, and avoid over-treating them with high calorie treats or table scraps.

Cold

not cold tolerant high cold tolerance

The breed's ability to tolerate cold weather conditions, including whether they require extra warmth and protection.

Italian Greyhounds are not particularly cold-tolerant dogs and may need extra warmth in chilly weather. They do not have an undercoat like some breeds, and their thin skin and short fur make them susceptible to the cold. Sweaters, coats, and indoor heating can help keep them warm in colder temperatures.

Heat

not heat tolerant high heat tolerance

The breed's ability to tolerate hot weather conditions, including whether they require extra cooling and protection.

Italian Greyhounds are sensitive to high temperatures due to their thin skin and lack of insulating undercoat. They should be kept in a cool, air-conditioned environment during hot weather, and should always have access to fresh water. Outdoor exercise should be scheduled during cooler parts of the day to avoid heatstroke or dehydration.

Apartment

not suitable for apartments great for apartments

The breed's suitability for new or inexperienced dog owners, including their trainability and temperament.

Italian Greyhounds can do well in apartments or smaller living spaces, as long as they have access to daily exercise and mental stimulation. They are a quiet breed that do not require a lot of space, but do need regular access to outdoor areas for bathroom breaks and exercise.

Wanderlust

less likely to wander very likely to wander

The breed's tendency to wander or roam, including whether they may become lost or require a lot of supervision.

Italian Greyhounds have a moderate tendency to wander or roam, especially if they catch sight of something small and furry in the distance. It is important to keep them on a leash when outside or in an unfenced area to prevent them from running off or getting lost.

Sensitivity

less sensitive very sensitive

The breed's sensitivity to criticism or negative reinforcement, including whether they may become stressed or anxious.

Italian Greyhounds can be sensitive to criticism or negative reinforcement, and may become anxious or stressed if they sense tension in their environment. They respond best to positive reinforcement techniques and benefit from a calm, stable home environment with lots of love and attention.

Separation

not suitable for alone time great at being alone

The breed's tolerance for being left alone, including whether they may become anxious or destructive.

Italian Greyhounds may not do well with extended periods of time alone, as they can become anxious and destructive when left for long periods. They typically do best with a consistent routine and regular company. Crate training and having a safe space or quiet area in the home can help them feel more secure when left alone.

Barking

quiet very vocal

The amount of barking a breed tends to do, including whether they may be vocal or prone to excessive barking.

Italian Greyhounds are not excessively vocal dogs, and tend to bark only when necessary. They may bark to alert their owners to danger or to communicate their needs, but are generally not prone to nuisance barking. Excessive barking can be a sign of anxiety, stress or lack of exercise.

Mental

happy to lounge needs a job or activity

The breed's need for mental stimulation and engagement, including whether they are intelligent and require challenging activities.

Italian Greyhounds are intelligent dogs that love to learn and be stimulated mentally. They enjoy puzzle toys, interactive games, and engaging in activities with their owners that challenge their minds. Mental stimulation is important to their overall health and happiness.

Novice_owners

not suitable for novice owners great for novice owners

Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.

Italian Greyhounds may not be the best choice for novice dog owners due to their stubborn nature and challenges with training. They require consistent and positive training methods to become well-behaved pets. However, with early socialization and patience, they can make a loyal and affectionate companion for the right owner.

Trainability

difficult to train easy to train

The ease of training a breed, including whether they are intelligent, obedient, and willing to learn.

Italian Greyhounds can be challenging to train due to their stubborn nature and short attention span. They respond best to positive reinforcement training methods, and may require extra patience and persistence to master basic obedience commands. Early socialization and consistent training can help create a well-behaved adult dog.

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History of the Italian Greyhound

The Italian Greyhound is an ancient breed that can trace its origins back to ancient civilizations such as Greece and Rome.

These dogs were often kept by aristocrats and royalty, and were prized for their beauty and companionship. They were also used as hunters and were particularly valued for their ability to catch small game such as rabbits.

The breed nearly disappeared during the Middle Ages, but was revived in the 16th century thanks to Italian breeders who worked to preserve the breed's distinctive characteristics.

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Italian Greyhound Puppies

Italian Greyhound puppies are delicate and require careful handling.

Due to their small size, they can be easily injured if not handled properly. Puppies should be socialized early on to ensure they grow up to be well-adjusted and friendly pets.

Italian Greyhound puppies should be fed a high-quality dog food that is appropriate for their age and size. It is also important to provide them with plenty of opportunities to exercise and play.