Description

The Italian Greyhound is an elegant, miniature fine-boned Greyhound with a long head thinning gradually to a pointed muzzle. It has a dark nose, thin lips and a healthy scissors bite. Like his larger cousins, the brisket is deep, the abdomen tucked-in, and the back arched. The fine narrow ears fold back along the head, but rise perpendicular to the head when the dog is alert. The neck is long and thin. The expressive eyes are large and dark. The tail is straight ending in a slight curve. The Italian Greyhound has an easy-care short, sleek coat in solid gray, slate gray, cream, red, fawn, black, or blue - often broken up with white markings on the chest and feet, or white with color markings. A flecked version also exists but are not accepted in all countries. The Italian Greyhound has a high-stepping gait.

Origin

The Italian Greyhound is a very old Greyhound. Interestingly, a dog similar to the Italian Greyhound of today was found in a 6000 year old Egyptian tomb. Like the Greyhound, this breed was brought to Europe by the Phoenicians. The breed was later developed by the Romans. As evidence, a small Greyhound was found in an ancient lava flow in Pompeii. During the sixteenth century, this delicate dog became popular with European nobility, and is portrayed in many paintings of that time. The breed was favored by Catherine the Great of Russia, James I of England, Anne of Denmark and Queen Victoria, among others. Frederick the Great of Prussia liked his little Italian Greyhound so much, he even took one to war with him. When his Italian Greyhound died, he buried him with his own hands on the grounds of his Sands Souci Palace. In 1991, Frederick's family granted his dying wishes and transferred his remains to Sans Souci, and placed them beside his little Italian Greyhound. A nineteenth century African chieftain was so taken with these graceful dogs that he offered 200 cattle in exchange for a single specimen. The Italian Greyhound is an excellent companion dog.

Temperament

The Italian Greyhound is a gentle, submissive and affectionate dog. They become very attached to their masters and can be reserved with strangers. Playful and intelligent, generally these dogs are not difficult to train provided their handler is consistent with them. They are often naughty and are aware of it. It is important that you can see the funny side when things go wrong but this does not mean allowing them to take advantage of you. This dog can be high strung and timid and must be handled very gently. This is a pet for a quiet household where there are no lively children, although they do get along well with behaved children and other dogs and cats. In a stressful situation it needs constant reassurance by stroking. They are very dependent and peaceful. It can be snappish if it is frightened. This breed can be difficult to housebreak. They are generally easy to get along with and take care of. This dog is extremely fast! Young Italian Greyhounds are very active. They can climb wire fencing and are very inquisitive - jumping from chair to table tops to nearby furniture. They are not good companions for large dogs. They do get along well with other Italian Greyhounds and some recommend that you have more than one of this fine breed.

Height

Height: 12-15 inches (30-38 cm.)

Weight

Weight: 6-10 pounds (3-5 kg.)

Known Health Problems

The Italian Greyhound is hardier than it appears. The adult dog is certainly not delicate but until they are about eighteen months old, their bones are quite fragile and they can break a leg rather easily. Italian Greyhounds are prone to slipped stifle, fractures, PRA and epilepsy. Bitches whelp easily and are well-suited to motherhood.

Conditions for Living

The Italian Greyhound is good for apartment life. They are fairly active indoors and will do okay without a yard. This breed is very sensitive to cold temperatures and should wear a sweater to go out in the cold weather.

Exercise Requirments

walk. In addition, they love to run free and play. Because Italian Greyhounds like to play by running and bumping into each other, play with groups of other Italian Greyhounds should always be supervised to prevent accidental injury. Play with other large dogs is not recommended. Italian Greyhounds may be a good jogging companion for short distances, but they do better as a walking companion.

Life Expectancy

About 12-15 years.

Grooming

The Italian Greyhound is one of the easiest dogs to groom. All that is needed to keep the fine, silky coat gleaming is a rubdown with a piece of toweling or chamois. Only bathe when absolutely necessary. After bathing make sure the dogs is thoroughly dry and warm. The teeth should be brushed regularly to keep tarter from building up, and the toenails should be kept trimmed. This breed sheds little to no hair.

Group

Southern, AKC Toy