The Italian Greyhound is a small member of the Toy Group of dogs. It is the smallest of the sighthounds and with its sleek shape and graceful lines, is elegance personified. Despite the 'Italian' in its name, the Italian Greyhound almost certainly originated in Greece and Turkey and is believe to date back more than 4,000 years.
History:
Mummified remains of similar dogs to the Italian Greyhound have been discovered in Egyptian tombs, and the breed is believed to be more than 4,000 years old, having originated originally in what is now Greece and Turkey. Bred mainly as companion dogs, Italian Greyhounds were also used to hunt rabbits, rats and mice.
Popular throughout Europe during the Middle Ages, the breed was particularly popular in Italy, hence the name 'Italian' Greyhound.
Other Names: Piccolo Levriero Italiano, Italianische Windspiel, Pequeno Lebrel Italiano, IG
Country Of Origin: Italy
Lifespan: 12-15 years
Colours: Black, blue, green, fawn, red, white (any of these colours broken with white), white (broken with any of these colours)
Coat: Short
Breed:
Toy
Size: Small
Height: Male: 32 - 38 cm (12.5 - 15 ins) Female: 32 - 38 cm (12.5 - 15 ins)
Weight: Male: 3.6 - 4.5 Kg (8 - 10 lbs) Female: 3.6 - 4.5 Kg (8 - 10 lbs)
Care:
Because of its delicate bones, rough play should be avoided. For that reason, the Italian Greyhound is best suited to families with older children. Italian Greyhounds feel the cold, so a protective coat is recommended during cold and wet weather.
Temperament:
A gentle, sensitive and affectionate animal, the Italian Greyhound is a true people dog and makes an excellent family pet for those with older children, and is equally well-suited as a companion dog.
Suitability:
Excellent companion dog.
Suitable Environment:
Any, but most definitely not a yard dog as the Italian Greyhound needs the company of people.
Grooming: Minimal
Exercise: Moderate
Trainability: Medium
Child Friendly: Yes, but not suitable for younger children
Pet Tolerant: No
Novice Owner Suitability: Yes
Health Issues*:
Alopecia, Anaesthesia Sensitivity, Bone Fractures, Cataracts, Corneal Dystrophy, Epilepsy, Glaucoma, Hypothyroidism, Patella Luxation, Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
(* The fact that this breed may be susceptible to these conditions does not mean that all dogs of this breed will be affected by them. They are listed here purely as a guide.)
