Italian Greyhound: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care

The Italian greyhound is a small toy dog breed from Italy with a short coat, long neck, and slender legs. These sleek dogs were bred to be companions. And if there’s a warm lap for them to curl up in, that’s where they’d love to spend their time. Still, these dogs are quick and nimble with a hound’s hunting instinct, and they love to play too.

Characteristics of the Italian Greyhound

Italian greyhounds generally have a sensitive and sociable personality. And playfulness is typical of their temperament. They love to be around people and even get along well with other dogs. 

History of the Italian Greyhound

The Italian greyhound is an ancient dog breed that originated over 2,000 years ago in the Mediterranean region. Artifacts from the area show images of the breed, and the dogs' miniature skeletons have been discovered in archaeological digs. These dogs were likely kept around for both companionship and small-game hunting.

In Renaissance Italy, the breed became a lapdog of the wealthy. It was beloved by royal families and aristocrats, and many Renaissance-era portraits even depict nobles with their canine companions. 

The breed made its way to North America in the 19th century. The American Kennel Club first recognized it in 1886.

Italian Greyhound Care

Italian greyhounds need some exercise and mental stimulation to get their energy out every day. And they should receive consistent training and socialization. Their grooming typically is not a huge time commitment.

Exercise

Italian greyhounds love napping in a cozy spot, but they also need regular exercise to be healthy and happy. Aim for at least an hour per day of physical activity. Typically a couple of short walks plus playtime throughout the day should suffice. You also can offer puzzle toys or enroll in dog sports to provide both mental stimulation and physical activity. 

Don’t forget about this small hound’s high prey drive when heading outside. Always keep it in a securely fenced area or on leash to prevent it from running off to chase perceived prey. Furthermore, if you live in a cold climate, keep outdoor time brief in chilly weather. This breed is sensitive to the cold because of its short coat and low body fat. Many owners have coats and sweaters to provide extra warmth for their dogs.

Grooming

Use a grooming mitt on the Italian greyhound’s short, smooth coat roughly every week to remove loose fur and debris, and distribute skin oils. The coat typically stays relatively clean, but you can bathe your dog roughly every month, depending on how dirty it gets. 

Aim to brush your dog’s teeth daily, as this breed is prone to dental issues. Discuss the need for professional teeth cleanings with your vet as well. Look in your dog’s ears at least weekly for wax buildup and irritation. Check its nails about once a month to see whether they need a trim.

Training

Always use positive, rewards-based training methods with this breed. Italian greyhounds can be sensitive and stubborn when it comes to harsh corrections, potentially shutting down and refusing to learn. Immediately offer praise and/or a treat for positive behavior, and be consistent with your commands. Aim to begin training from a young age to prevent the development of bad habits.

Moreover, make an effort to socialize your Italian greyhound ideally from an early age. Expose it to different people, other dogs, and various locations. This will help to boost its comfort and make it a more adaptable, well-adjusted dog.

Common Health Problems

Italian greyhounds have a relatively long life span, but they are prone to some hereditary health issues, including:

• Progressive retinal atrophy
• Legg-Calve-Perthes disease
• Hypothyroidism
• Hip dysplasia
• Patellar luxation
• Dental issues
• Autoimmune issues

Diet and Nutrition

Always have fresh water accessible for your dog. Feed a nutritionally balanced canine diet. It’s typical to feed two measured meals per day. But you should always discuss the recommended type and amount of food with your vet. Monitor treats and other extra food closely to prevent your dog from overeating. Even minor weight gain can be significant for such a small dog and put unnecessary pressure on its joints.

Where to Adopt or Buy an Italian Greyhound

Italian greyhounds aren’t a common dog breed, but it’s still worth checking local animal shelters and rescue groups for a dog in need of a home. If you’re looking for a puppy from a reputable breeder, expect to pay around $600 to $1,200, though this can vary widely. For further information on owning an Italian greyhound, check out:

• American Kennel Club Marketplace
• Italian Greyhound Rescue Foundation
• Italian Greyhound Club of America
  

Italian Greyhound Overview

More Dog Breeds and Further Research

Before bringing home an Italian greyhound, make sure to do sufficient research to determine whether the breed is right for your lifestyle. Talk to breed owners, rescue groups, reputable breeders, and veterinarians. Spend some time around Italian greyhounds, too, if possible.

If you’re interested in similar breeds, check out:

• Greyhound
• Whippet
• Manchester terrier

There’s a whole world of potential dog breeds out there—with a little research, you can find the right one to bring home!