The Italian Greyhound!
Also known as the Piccolo Levriero Italiano, Italian Greyhounds are elegant
greyhounds – small and fine-boned. Their long head gradually things to
a pointed muzzle. They have a high-stepping gait and a straight tail, which
ends in a slight curve. Italian Greyhounds have large, dark, and very expressive
eyes. They have a dark-colored nose, thin lips, and great teeth to match its
healthy scissor bite. This breed has a deep brisket, tucked-in abdomen, and
arched back – just like its bigger cousins. Their ears fold back along
the head. However, their ears rise perpendicular to the head when they get
excited or alerted by something.
Some Quick Facts:
Life Expectancy:
13-15 years
Energy Level:
Gentle and submissive.
Living Conditions:
Great for apartment and indoor living.
Barking:
Below average..
Exercise Needs:
Short distance runs and moderate walks.
Breed Group:
Hound
Size:
Small
Height:
12-15 inches
Weight:
7-12 pounds
Standard Hair Colors:
Solid gray, slate gray, cream, red, fawn, black, or blue.
National breed club:
The Italian Greyhound Club of America
Italian Greyhound Skills
The Italian Greyhound is favored by nobility and became so popular in Europe that they were even included in many paintings of that time. They make excellent companion dogs, then and now. In fact, it is said that a 19th century African Chieftain who was so taken with this dog offered 200 cattles in exchange for just one Italian Greyhound.
Italian Greyhound Personality
Some even go as far as recommending that a dog owner should get more than one of this particular breed, probably because they get along excellently with other Italian Greyhounds. This breed is very affectionate, gentle and submissive. They can be aloof or reserved in the presence of strangers but at their most comfortable with their masters – to a point of healthy attachment. It is not too difficult to train Italian Greyhounds but someone who is very consistent with them should handle them. They are naughty and they know it. Owners should learn to relax in this area and learn to see their funny side. However, allowing them to take advantage of you and letting them have their fun are two different things. It is very important to handle them gently because they can be very high strung and timid. Lively children should not be left alone with Italian Greyhounds though they do get along fine with other dogs, cats and extraordinarily behaved and disciplined children. When they undergo shock, trauma or any stressful situation, constant stroking gives them reassurance. They can be snappish when caught by surprise or when terrified but they are generally dependent and peaceful. They can be a little hard to housebreak but it’s easy to get along with them. They are not good companions for bigger dogs but their skill at climbing wire fencing and inquisitive jumping from furniture to another furniture is somewhat legendary.
Exercise Needs
Active and lively, these dogs love playful frolic and make ideal walking companions.
Living Conditions
They are great jogging companions especially when covering only short distances. However, they are better suited for walking and they make excellent walking partners. Italian Greyhounds enjoy running and free play, as they are active little dogs with seemingly boundless energy.
Grooming Requirements
Italian Greyhounds are one of the easiest breeds to groom. They shed little to no hair.
Health Issues
Their bones are a little fragile and their legs break rather easily. They are prone to fractures, PRA, epilepsy, slipped stifle.
If you liked this dog…
...you would also like the Greyhound, which shares many of this dog’s traits and characteristics, only bigger in size.
