Italian Greyhound Breed Overview and Care Guide

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Posted Oct 15, 2024

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The Italian Greyhound is a small, delicate breed that's perfect for city living. They typically weigh between 8-15 pounds and stand about 10-15 inches tall at the shoulder.

Italian Greyhounds are known for their short, smooth coats that require minimal grooming. A weekly brush session should keep their coats looking their best.

These dogs are naturally athletic and love to run, but they're not built for long-distance running. Short, regular exercise sessions are ideal for keeping them happy and healthy.

Their calm and gentle nature makes them a great fit for families with children.

For more insights, see: American Bully Coats

General Information

Italian Greyhounds are small dogs, typically weighing 8 to 15 pounds and standing 13 to 18 inches tall at the shoulder.

They have a short, smooth coat that is easy to groom.

Italian Greyhounds are relatively low-maintenance dogs and do not require a lot of exercise, but they do enjoy playing fetch and regularly going for walks.

Their lifespan is 12 to 15 years, which is a decent amount of time to enjoy their company.

Here are some key characteristics of Italian Greyhounds at a glance:

  • Weight: 8-15 pounds
  • Height: 13-18 inches
  • Lifespan: 12-15 years
  • Exercise needs: Low-maintenance, but enjoy playing fetch and going for walks

Overview

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Italian Greyhounds are small dogs, typically weighing 8 to 15 pounds and standing 13 to 18 inches tall at the shoulder. They have a short, smooth coat that is easy to groom.

They are gentle, affectionate, and playful dogs, making them great companions for children and other pets. Italian Greyhounds are relatively low-maintenance dogs and do not require a lot of exercise, but they do enjoy playing fetch and going for walks.

Their lifespan is 12 to 15 years, which is a decent amount of time to enjoy their company. They are intelligent dogs and are relatively easy to train, but they can be stubborn at times.

Here are some common coat colors for Italian Greyhounds:

  • Gray
  • Black
  • Fawn
  • Chocolate
  • Tan
  • Cream
  • Red
  • Sable
  • A combination of these colors

Italian Greyhounds have been admired by writers and poets for centuries, and have been featured in the works of renowned authors such as William Shakespeare, and Charles Dickens.

Adopt or Buy

If you're considering bringing an Italian Greyhound into your life, you have two main options: adopting or buying.

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Adopting is a great way to give a loving home to a dog in need. Italian Greyhounds aren't a common breed, but you can still find one at a local animal shelter or through a rescue group.

You can expect to pay between $600 to $1,200 for an Italian Greyhound puppy from a reputable breeder, though prices can vary.

If you're set on buying from a breeder, make sure to check the American Kennel Club Marketplace for reputable breeders in your area.

If you'd rather adopt, consider reaching out to the Italian Greyhound Rescue Foundation or the Italian Greyhound Club of America for resources on finding a dog in need of a home.

Broaden your view: Pit Bull Terrier Breeders

Physical Characteristics

The Italian Greyhound is the smallest of the sighthounds, weighing no more than 5 kg and standing 32 to 38 cm at the withers.

They have a deep chest and a tucked-up abdomen, with long slender legs and a long neck. Their head is small, elongated, and narrow.

Their gait is high-stepping and well-sprung, with good forward extension in the trot, and a fast gallop.

Size

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Italian Greyhounds are a relatively small breed, standing 13 to 15 inches at the shoulder.

Their weight is similarly modest, ranging from 6 to 10 pounds, with some individuals reaching up to 14 or 15 pounds.

The ideal height at the withers measures from 13 to 15 inches.

Any deviation above or below this height range is considered a serious fault in breeding.

Body

The Italian Greyhound's body is a remarkable sight to behold. It's short coupled, with extra length in the rib cage.

The chest is narrow, deep, and ideally let down as close to the elbows as possible. This allows for maximum flexibility and movement.

The withers are high, giving the dog a regal and athletic appearance.

Tail

The tail is a distinctive feature of this animal, and it's worth noting that it tapers to a curved end. Its length allows it to reach the hock.

The tail is set low, which gives it a distinctive appearance.

Breed History and Characteristics

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The Italian Greyhound is an ancient breed with a rich history dating back over 2,000 years. They originated in the Mediterranean region and were highly valued by the nobility and aristocracy.

Their early purpose was likely as a hunter of small game, but they also made excellent companions. In fact, many Italian Greyhounds were immortalized in portraits by famous artists like Pisanello and Giotto di Bondone.

The breed's popularity peaked during Queen Victoria's reign, and they were first registered by the American Kennel Club in 1886.

Here are some key characteristics of the Italian Greyhound:

Italian Greyhounds are known for their affectionate, playful, and companionable nature. They make great pets for those who want a loyal and loving companion.

Breed Characteristics

Italian Greyhounds are small dogs, typically weighing between 8 to 15 pounds and standing 13 to 18 inches tall at the shoulder.

They have a short, smooth coat that is easy to groom, making them a low-maintenance choice for many owners.

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Their temperament is generally affectionate, playful, and companionable, making them wonderful friends for people of all ages.

However, they can be skittish around young children who are too rough, so it's essential to socialize them properly.

Italian Greyhounds are sensitive dogs and do not do well being left alone for long periods of time. They need companionship and attention from their owners.

They are active dogs, but they do not require a lot of exercise, making them a great choice for apartment dwellers.

Here are some key characteristics of the Italian Greyhound breed:

Italian Greyhounds are also known for their intolerance to cold, so they need extra care during the winter months.

Breed History

The Italian Greyhound has a rich history that spans over 2,000 years, with evidence of its existence found in 2,000-year-old artifacts from Turkey and Greece.

The breed's original purpose is unclear, but it's believed to have been used for hunting small game and as a companion.

Additional reading: Shih Tzu Bebe 2 Meses

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Miniature Greyhound skeletons have been discovered in archaeological digs, giving us a glimpse into the breed's ancient past.

By the Middle Ages, the Italian Greyhound had made its way to southern Europe and became a favorite among the aristocracy.

The breed was immortalized in portraits by famous artists like Pisanello and Giotto di Bondone, showcasing its popularity among the nobility.

The Italian Greyhound arrived in England in the 1600s, where it was cherished by royal owners, including Mary, Queen of Scots, and Queen Victoria.

The breed's popularity peaked during Queen Victoria's reign, and it was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1886.

Today, the Italian Greyhound is enjoying a second renaissance, as modern dog owners rediscover the elegant little hound that has delighted its human companions for centuries.

On a similar theme: Queen Victoria Pomeranian Dog

Racing

Racing is a natural fit for this breed, given their high energy levels and strong prey drive. They need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.

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The breed's athletic ability and agility make them well-suited for dog sports like agility and flyball. Their strong instinct to chase and catch prey also makes them natural competitors in dog racing events.

Their short coats require minimal grooming, but they do need regular nail trimming and ear cleaning to stay healthy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Italian Greyhounds bark a lot?

Italian Greyhounds bark, but they don't yap excessively. They'll alert you to strangers, but their barking is relatively moderate.

Do Italian Greyhounds shed a lot?

Italian Greyhounds have a low-shedding coat, making them a great choice for those with allergies or a preference for less dog hair. Their short, silky coats require minimal grooming and maintenance.

Ada Goodwin

Lead Writer

Ada Goodwin is a versatile writer with a passion for uncovering the hidden stories of our world. With a keen eye for detail and a love for the unusual, she has explored a wide range of topics, from the cultural history of Japan to the fascinating world of taxidermy exhibits. Her writing often delves into the lives of individual dogs, monuments, and statues, revealing the unique stories and histories behind each one.