The Italian Greyhound is a slender, fine-boned dog, characterized by its graceful, high-stepping gait and elegant, curved silhouette.

Small; typically 13 to 15 inches tall at the shoulder.

Generally between 8 and 15 pounds.

Short, smooth, and glossy.

Variety of colors, including slate grey, black, red, fawn, cream, and white; markings may be present.

Long and narrow, with a refined muzzle.

Dark, expressive, and relatively large.

Small, rose-shaped, and carried folded back.

Long, thin, and tapering to a curve.

Italian Greyhounds are known for their affectionate, sensitive, and playful nature, thriving on close human companionship.

Deeply bonded to their families, often seeking physical closeness.

Highly attuned to their owners' emotions and respond best to gentle training methods.

Enjoy bursts of playful energy, especially in short sprints.

Typically good with children and other pets when properly socialized.

Can be reserved around strangers, making them good watchdogs, though not aggressive.

Quick learners, but can be stubborn at times.

Italian Greyhounds are best suited for individuals or families who can provide a loving, gentle environment and appreciate their unique blend of elegance and playfulness.

Relatively quiet, not excessive barkers.

May be reserved or timid around strangers if not properly socialized.

The ideal owner for an Italian Greyhound is someone who can offer a warm, consistent, and loving home, appreciating their sensitive nature and providing gentle training and companionship.

Italian Greyhounds require minimal grooming, a balanced diet, and a warm, comfortable living environment due to their short coat and lean build.

Very low maintenance; occasional brushing to remove loose hair and regular nail trims.

Infrequent baths are needed, only when necessary.

High-quality dog food, portioned appropriately to avoid overfeeding and maintain a healthy weight.

Prefer warm climates; may need sweaters or coats in cold weather.

Regular teeth brushing to prevent dental disease, which can be common in small breeds.

Check and clean ears regularly to prevent infections.

Italian Greyhounds are relatively easy to train with positive reinforcement, but their sensitive nature requires patience. Moderate exercise, including short walks and play sessions, is sufficient.

Iggys respond best to positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise. Due to their sensitive nature, harsh training methods should be avoided. Early socialization is crucial to develop a well-rounded temperament. Housebreaking can sometimes be a challenge, requiring consistency and patience.

Despite their small size, Italian Greyhounds have bursts of energy and enjoy activities like short sprints in a securely fenced area. Daily walks and play sessions are important for their physical and mental well-being. They are not suited for long-distance running or strenuous exercise.

Use treats, praise, and toys to motivate and reward good behavior.

Establish a routine and stick to it, especially for housebreaking.

Expose your Iggy to various people, pets, and environments from a young age.

Ensure your yard is securely fenced, as Iggys can be surprisingly fast and agile.

Avoid rough handling or harsh corrections, which can make them fearful.

Italian Greyhounds are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they are prone to certain genetic conditions.

A degeneration of the hip joint, leading to pain and lameness.

A condition where the kneecap dislocates, causing discomfort and potential mobility issues.

A degenerative eye disorder that can lead to blindness.

A neurological disorder that can cause seizures.

Underactive thyroid gland that affect metabolism

Prone to teeth and gum problems

The Italian Greyhound's origins trace back over 2,000 years to the Mediterranean area, specifically to what is now Greece and Turkey. These small sighthounds were favored by Roman nobility, prized for their elegance and companionship. Miniature skeletons, similar to the breed, have been found in archaeological sites, providing evidence of their ancient lineage. During the Renaissance, the breed became incredibly popular among Italian aristocracy, hence the name 'Italian' Greyhound. They were often depicted in paintings and sculptures of the era. The American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized the Italian Greyhound in 1886. Notably, the breed survived near extinction during the World Wars, thanks to dedicated breeders in Europe and North America who worked to preserve its lineage.

Yes, when properly socialized, they are typically gentle and playful with children. However, due to their delicate build, interactions should always be supervised.

No, they are not excessive barkers. They may alert to strangers, but they are generally quiet dogs.

They need moderate exercise, including daily walks and short bursts of play. They are not suited for strenuous or long-distance exercise.

Housebreaking can be a challenge and requires patience and consistency. Crate training is often recommended.

No, they have a short, smooth coat that requires minimal grooming. Occasional brushing and nail trims are sufficient.

They are sensitive to cold due to their short coat and lean build. They may need sweaters or coats in colder weather.

Yes, they can be prone to certain genetic conditions, such as Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease, patellar luxation, and PRA. Regular vet check-ups are important.

The average lifespan is 12 to 15 years.

Yes, they adapt well to apartment living, provided they get enough exercise and mental stimulation.

They typically stand 13 to 15 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 8 and 15 pounds.