Italian Greyhound Dog Breed Profile

by Luke Blaise

AKC Group: Toy Group

The Italian Greyhound resembles a miniature Greyhound. Standing at barely over a foot tall, these wispy dogs are fast and very easy to care for. They can live okay in apartments, but need to have daily exercise.

History

Just like many old breeds, their representation in architecture and art offers insight in to their origins. Miniature greyhounds come in old decorative arts from the Mediterranean nations dating back two thousand years. In the Renaissance, Italian noblemen took the dog as their own also it became referred to as the Italian Greyhound. In 17th century England the dog quickly became popular.

Physical Features

Italian Greyhound is much like the Greyhound, but smaller and much more toned. Height at withers, preferably thirteen inches to fifteen inches. Skin supple and fine, hair short, shiny like satin and soft to touch. The dogs could be white with shade markings or shade with white markings at the feet and chest. A flecked type also exists but isn't accepted in most countries. Black and brindle and tan aren't recognized in the AKC show ring.

Personality

Italian Greyhound is affectionate, intelligent, keen, kind-mannered and playful. Typically submissive and wanting only to please their owners. This dog is very fast, very energetic and has the capacity to climb. They do very best in a quiet household, even though they do get along nicely with kids and other cats and dogs, as long as the humans close to them show authority.

Common Health Problems

Italian Greyhounds are susceptible to epilepsy, fractures, PRA, slipped stifle. Dams whelp very easily. Mature dogs are quite hardy. But puppies tend to be more fragile up to when they're about 18 months old. They also can break a leg somewhat easily. During this period be mindful with them, but don't treat them like small babies or you'll create a spoiled dog.

Return to: Complete AKC Dog Breed List

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