If you’ve ever spotted an Italian Greyhound, you may have described them as elegant or even regal. But if you spend just a few minutes with one, you’ll see they’re actually goofy, affectionate, and full of personality! These little dogs are sweet, silly, and love nothing more than being close to their people. Whether you’re thinking about getting an Italian Greyhound or just want to know what they’re really like, here’s a full rundown of what to expect.
Quick Facts About Italian Greyhounds
- Breed category: Toy
- Height: 13-15 inches
- Weight: 7-14 pounds
- Coat: Short and smooth
- Colors: Gray, black, fawn, chocolate, tan, cream, red, and sable
- Temperament: Affectionate, playful, and gentle
- Lifespan: 14-15 years
- Grooming: Low to moderate shedding, relatively low-maintenance upkeep
History of Italian Greyhounds
Italian Greyhounds have been around for centuries. In fact, they date back over 2,000 years, where these pups were originally found in parts of the Mediterranean. Italian Greyhounds were both companions and small-game hunters, and were loved for their speed, elegance, and loyal personalities.
During the Italian Renaissance, they became the go-to lapdogs for royals and wealthy families. These pups were so popular that you can even spot them in paintings from that time! Eventually, they made their way to the United States, and the American Kennel Club officially recognized the breed in the late 1800s.
Exercise and Mental Stimulation
When it comes to exercise, it’s important to note that Italian Greyhounds are sprinters, not marathon runners. They’re known for having a burst of energy, whether that’s running around the yard or doing zoomies through the living room. But these pups also love their naps, so don’t be surprised if they crash on the couch after a few minutes of play. A couple of short walks a day and intermittent playtime are usually enough to keep an Italian Greyhound happy.
Italian Greyhounds are an intelligent breed, so keeping their brains busy is just as important as physical exercise. Puzzle toys, short training sessions, and exploring new places can help keep things interesting for them. There are also plenty of fun games to keep your dog mentally stimulated while keeping both of you entertained.
Proper Training and Socialization
Training an Italian Greyhound takes patience, but with some effort (and treats), it’s pretty rewarding! When planning your training sessions, it’s important to know that this breed is typically sensitive and doesn’t respond well to yelling or harsh corrections. Instead, Italian Greyhounds do best when you focus on positive reinforcement, like treats, toys, or simple praise. Consistency is key, and starting young makes a big difference as well.
Socializing your Italian Greyhound early is also a good idea. Some Italian Greyhounds are shy around new people or other dogs, so gentle exposure to different environments can help build their confidence. House training can be a bit of a struggle, so expect to need some extra time and patience there as well. If you want some extra help, our expert trainers at Sit Means Sit are always here to help!
Diet and Nutrition for Italian Greyhounds
Because they’re so petite, it doesn’t take much for an Italian Greyhound to gain weight. Feeding them a balanced diet and sticking to measured portions is really important. Most canines do well with two meals a day and should always have access to fresh water.
If you’re feeding Fido treats, keep an eye on how many they’re getting. Even a few extras can add up quickly for a dog this size. And if you ever have questions about how much or what to feed, your vet can help you come up with a plan that works for your pup.
Common Health Issues of This Breed
Italian Greyhounds are generally healthy, but they are more delicate than some other small dogs. Broken legs are one of the more common injuries, especially if they jump off furniture or play too roughly. It’s a good idea to teach them not to leap off high places and to supervise them around bigger dogs.
Other health problems that sometimes show up include epilepsy, dental disease, patellar luxation, and thyroid issues. They’re also at risk for some eye conditions like progressive retinal atrophy. Regular checkups, gentle handling, and keeping them at a healthy weight can go a long way toward preventing or managing many of these issues.
Personality Traits of an Italian Greyhound
Italian Greyhounds are sweet, sensitive, and love being around their people as much as possible. They tend to stick close and will happily follow you from room to room just to stay nearby. Because they get so attached to their family, this breed doesn’t do well being left alone for long periods. That’s part of why Italian Greyhounds often thrive in pairs. If you’re thinking about getting another dog, an Italian Greyhound is likely to love a new canine best friend!
An Italian Greyhound’s gentle and social nature makes them a good fit for families, but they do best with kids who understand how to be calm and respectful around dogs. This breed also tends to get along well with other small dogs, especially if they’ve been socialized early. While they might be a little shy at first, they’re rarely aggressive and usually warm up quickly in a safe, relaxed environment.
Ultimately, Italian Greyhounds are easy to love! They’re sweet, playful, and happiest when they’re close to their people. While they can be a little sensitive at times, these pups are also full of charm and personality. If you’re looking for a laid-back, loyal companion who enjoys both naps and short bursts of energy, this breed is a great choice.
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