Italian Greyhound
Description
The Italian Greyhound is a small breed of dog that is known for its elegance and grace. This breed is one of the oldest dog breeds, dating back to ancient times, and is believed to have originated in Italy. Italian Greyhounds are characterized by their sleek, slender bodies and long legs, giving them a refined appearance. They typically stand between 13 to 15 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh around 7 to 14 pounds. Their short, smooth coat can come in a variety of colors, including fawn, blue, black, and white, often with markings.
Personality
Italian Greyhounds are known for their affectionate and gentle nature. They tend to form strong bonds with their owners and can be quite loyal. Their playful demeanor makes them great companions, often enjoying games of chase or fetch. While they are generally friendly with children and other pets, they can be reserved or shy around strangers. Italian Greyhounds are sensitive dogs that thrive on companionship and do not like to be left alone for long periods, as they can develop separation anxiety.
Care Requirements
Italian Greyhounds require regular exercise to maintain their health and well-being, but their exercise needs are moderate compared to larger breeds. Short walks and playtime in a secure area are usually sufficient. They are sensitive to cold weather, so they may need a dog sweater or coat during the winter months. Grooming is minimal, as their short coat only requires occasional brushing to remove loose hair. Additionally, regular dental care is important, as small breeds often face dental issues. Due to their sensitive nature, early socialization and training are recommended to help them become well-adjusted adults.
Suitable For:
- Individuals or families looking for a friendly and sociable pet.
- Homes with other dogs, as they are very dog-friendly.
- Those who can invest some time and energy into play and exercise.
- Those who prefer a dog that can be trained relatively easily.
- People who don't mind a moderate level of barking.
- NOT
Not Suitable For:
- Homes with very young children or those who engage in very rough play.
- Those looking for a highly energetic or hyperactive dog.
- People who need a highly protective or guard dog.
- Individuals or families who prefer a very quiet dog.
- Those who cannot invest time in training and socializing the dog.
Physical Characteristics
Italian Greyhounds have a unique and striking appearance. They have a long, narrow head with a tapered muzzle and large, expressive eyes that give them an intelligent look. Their ears are often folded back, and they have a long neck that leads to a deep chest. The breed has a slim build with a well-defined waist and long, slender legs, which contribute to their graceful movement. The coat is short and smooth, requiring minimal grooming, though they can be prone to temperature sensitivity due to their thin skin and lack of body fat.
Height
Male: 13" - 15"
Female: 13" - 15"
Weight
Male: 7 - 14 lbs
Female: 7 - 14 lbs
Life Expectancy
14 - 15 years
Breed Profile
Breed Characteristics
Maintenance Requirements
Frequently Asked Questions
Fun Facts
The Italian Greyhound is an ancient breed, with depictions found in Pompeii and ancient Egyptian tombs dating back over 2,000 years. These depictions show that the breed has remained largely unchanged, suggesting that their sleek, graceful appearance was highly prized even in ancient times.
Despite their delicate appearance, Italian Greyhounds are quite hardy. Their thin coats and lean bodies make them sensitive to the cold, but they are surprisingly resilient and can enjoy a wide range of physical activities, from agility courses to simple games of fetch.
Italian Greyhounds have a unique trait called a "double suspension gallop." This means that twice in each stride, all four of their feet are off the ground: once when the legs are fully extended and once when they are tucked under the body. This is a trait they share with their larger cousin, the Greyhound.
During the Renaissance, Italian Greyhounds were widely loved by nobility. They were particularly favored by Italian nobles, which is how they got their name. Queen Victoria of England was also known to have several Italian Greyhounds as pets.
In popular culture, the Italian Greyhound has often been portrayed as a symbol of luxury and elegance. For example, in the 1996 film "The English Patient," the character Katharine Clifton is often shown with her Italian Greyhound, reinforcing her image as a refined, sophisticated woman.