The Italian Greyhound is barely a foot tall and a very slender dog but it has all the grace and sweetness of its taller counterparts. Though there is a debate related to the purpose of their breeding as some believe they were bred as hunting dogs while some say they were meant as companions. Both may be true as they are quite adaptable to city and country life.
Physical Traits
Area of Origin: Italy
Used for: Hunting, companion
Average Life Span: 12-15 years
Color: Any color except brindle and black and tan
Coat: Short, glossy, fine and silky
Average Height: 12-15 inches
Average Weight: 6-10 pounds
Group: Southern, AKC toy
History and Domestication
The Italian Greyhounds are ancient dogs and their oldest images have been found in an Egyptian tomb which is 6000 years old. These dogs became popular with the nobility during the Renaissance. A small greyhound type dog’s remnants were also found in the city of Pompeii. Miniature greyhounds have also appeared in decorative arts of the Mediterranean countries which date back to 2000 years ago. They came to be known as the Italian greyhound as the nobility grew fond of the dogs. The breed entered the British scene in the seventeenth century and steadily became popular.
Standard Physical Characteristics
The Italian Greyhound is a fine-boned, slender little dog. The head is long and narrow with a tapering muzzle and a slight stop. The nose can be black or brown depending on the coat. The medium-sized eyes are dark and the small ears fold back. The chest is deep and narrow with straight front legs. The neck is long and arched.
Care, Grooming and Health
The Italian Greyhound is quite easy to groom and one of the dogs that require a low key maintenance. To keep its fine and silky coat gleaming, a rubdown with a towel is required. Bathe and trim their toenails only when necessary. The breed sheds little or no hair.
These are active little dogs and require a long daily walk. In addition to that, they love to play and run. The Italian Greyhounds are prone to epilepsy, fractures, sipped stifle and PRA.
Living Conditions
The Italian Greyhounds can live fairly well in an apartment. They are relatively active indoors and a yard will not be required. They are sensitive to cold weather.
Temperament
The Italian Greyhound is a playful and affectionate little dog which is keen, intelligent and well-mannered. It is eager and willing to please its owners which make it a fairly submissive breed. However these dogs are sensitive to the tone of one’s voice and will not listen to meek owners. They need to be socialized well to avoid timidity. Puppies are more fragile than the adult dogs. They may also become timid and high-strung if overprotected and are not provided with daily walks. They can get along well with children and other pets and do equally well in quiet households.
