Italian Greyhound Breed Info

Energy **
Trainng ***
Watchdog ***
Grooming *

Italian Greyhound are originated from Italy and also known as picolo levriero, Italiano, iggy
Size: max: 15 in (H), and max: 15 lbs (W)
Color: any color: red, blue, fawn, seal, white
Coat: short smooth coat
Personality: playful, affectionate, intelligent, needy
Care: fenced yard, leashed, attention, socialization
Known health problem: hypothyroidism, autoimmnue disease, Legg-Perthes, luxating patellas
Group: toy dogs

Good with children? yes with older children
Good with other pets? yes if well socialized, otherwise might tend to chase small animals

Italian Greyhound Club

Italian Greyhound Club of America
www.ItalianGreyhound.org

Sometime during the 17th century, this dog breed arrived in England and rose in popularity with the nobility. They became just as popular in England as they had been in their homeland of Italy. Italian Greyhounds were known as "Miniature Greyhounds" and were found in abundance throughout areas of southern Europe. They were especially adored by Italian courtiers.

In the year of 1820 there were only two specific dog breeds that were mentioned in a book about dogs. The Italian Greyhound was one of them. This breed continued to attract more popularity, and reached its peak sometime during the leadership reign of Queen Victoria.

After this time period, the numbers of Italian Greyhound dogs started to decline rapidly. After the end of World War II, these dogs had all but disappeared. It is predicted that the decline was the result of poor breeding quality over many generations. Even though their numbers had declined on the verge of extinction, quite a few Italian Greyhounds made their way to America sometime during the late 1800s and the breed was revived.

Italian Greyhound dogs make reasonably good watchdogs, as they bark at unfamiliar sounds.
However they are not good guard dogs as they are often aloof with strangers and easily spooked to run.

The Italian Greyhound loves to run at fast speeds and chase anything that will run from it. Some Italian Greyhounds enjoy dog agility. The breed's lithe body and its love of action enable it to potentially do well at this sport.

These dogs are extremely gentle and a bit on the sensitive side. Italian Greyhounds are reserved, timid, and makes a lovable family pet, especially around older children. The breed is equally at home in the city or the country and does not require as much exercise as larger breeds.

Italian Greyhound dogs absolutely hate cold weather but can stand higher-than-normal temperatures due to its shorthaired coat. Grooming is minimal with only the occasional brushing needed in order to remove dead hair.

The average lifespan of the Italian Greyhound can last up to 17 years when healthy, with 13 to 14 years being the average.