Italian Greyhound

Description: The Italian Greyhound, sometimes is referred to as the “IG”. Italian Greyhounds are the smallest of the sighthounds. They are very similar to the Greyhound, but are much smaller and more slender in all proportions. They are lively and full of good spirits and want to please. They crave affection and returns it gladly. Italian Greyhounds will adapt well to indoor living. They are prone to chills and should be kept in a draft-free environment and given a warm bed to snuggle in. Italian Greyhounds are not a noisy dog. They get along well with other pets. They are a clean, odorless dog. Handle your Italian Greyhound very gently and do not placed in a noisy household.

Other Names: Piccolo Levrieve Italiani

Type: Sighthound and Pariah

Height: 13 – 15 inches. Weight: 8 lbs.

Colors: Short, fine and glossy. Coat: Solid black, blue, cream, fawn, red or white or any of these colors with broken white.

Temperament: Quiet, affectionate With Children: Yes, if children are mature. With Pets: Good with other dogs, sometimes cats. Special Skills: Hunting dog and family pet.

Watch-dog: High Guard-dog: Low

Care and Training: Italian Greyhounds are easy to groom. They require a rub down with a soft cloth or chemise. Bathe only when necessary, but take care that they are thoroughly dry and warm afterwards. Free play and regular walks will keep an Italian Greyhound in shape. Learning Rate: High, Obedience – High, Problem Solving – Low

Activity: Indoors – High, Outdoors – Very High Living Environment: Indoors, city or country, apartment or house, needs daily exercise and attention. The owner of an Italian Greyhound should be an active, patient leader who desires a high-energy , busy, affectionate toy dog.

Health Issues: Prone to broken legs, slipped kneecaps, and hereditary eye problems.

Life Span: 14 – 16 years Litter Size: 3 – 5

Country of Origin: Italy History: The Italian Greyhound was one of the first breeds in ancient antiquity to be bred exclusively as a companion. The breed is also the smallest of the sight hounds. Italian Greyhounds were popular pets of the Egyptians, Greeks and Roman aristocrats. Whatever their original purpose they have been bred for the past few centuries as purely a pet.

First Registered by the AKC: 1886 AKC Group: Toy Class: Toy Registries: AKC, ANKC, CKC, FCI (Group 10), KC (GB), UKC