Italian Greyhound

The Italian Greyhound is a small breed of dog, specifically a member of the sight hound family and member of the toy group. more...

Appearance

The Italian Greyhound is the smallest of the sight hounds, typically weighing 3 to 5 kg. They look like miniature Greyhounds.

The colour of the coat is a subject of much discussion. In England, the USA, and Australia, white spotted Italians are accepted, while the FCI standards adhered to in Europe allows white spots only on the chest and paws.

The modern Italian Greyhound's appearance is a result of breeders throughout Europe, particularly Austrian, German, Italian, and French breeders, making great contributions to the forming of this breed. The Italian Greyhound should resemble a small Greyhound, or rather a Sloughi. It is important that the dogs are significantly more elegant and graceful than these breeds, though.

Temperament

The Italian Greyhound is considered a good companion dog, as they are very affectionate.

The Italian Greyhound's apparent lack of wide appeal is possibly because of their fragile appearance, with their spindly legs. The reality of the breed is quite contrary to the appearance, though, as they are frequently described as a 'big' dog in a small package. They also have a realatively loud bark. In fact, the breed will be equally at home in a city and in the country, and it does not require as much exercise as larger breeds. The Italian Greyhound is hardy, rarely ill, intelligent and easy to teach.

Sometimes, IG's will make a resonably good guard-dog and bark at things that aren't usually in the street. They may also bark at passers by.

IG's often get along with cats so if you already have a cat and you are looking for a suitable dog which won't chase your beloved kitty all day long, IG's can be recommended.

IG's despise the wind, wet and cold and will sometimes refuse to do their " business " outside if it is raining so some recommend having some old newspaper on the floor near the exit.

This breed, like most dogs, is not a fussy eater and will eat almost anything, including the month-old scraps from your garden. Most will eat enthusiastically, but some get more picky about their food as they age.

IGs are good with kids but their thin bones are fragile and can be hurt by rough play from young children.

Dogs of this breed have an almost odour-free, easily managed coat. Although the coat is incredibly short, it can shed. The breed simply loves the company of people, and will promptly occupy your lap if you let it. In fact, many owners of this breed have them sleeping with them in their beds.

The young dog will often be particularly active, and this high level of activity sometimes lead them to try to 'fly' from furniture or stairs. It is important to keep a close eye on the dogs in this initial phase as their young bones are still fragile. The first year of life is the most accident-prone, although the graceful legs often seem to withstand incredible punishment they are not invulnerable.

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