Italian Greyhound

The Italian Greyhound is a delicate, cat‑like sighthound—elegant, affectionate, and surprisingly playful. Excellent for apartments and gentle owners who can provide warmth, short bursts of exercise, and kind training.

Breed Group
Toy
Activity Level
Moderate
Size Category
Small
Coat Type
Short
Coat Texture
Smooth
Activity Level
Moderate
Trainability
High
Shedding Level
Low
Family Friendly
Yes
Apartment Friendly
Yes
Hypoallergenic
No
Breed Type
Purebred
Italian Greyhound sitting on a forest path, slender fawn coat, centered portrait with soft green bokeh.

Breed History

This petite sighthound has roots in ancient Mediterranean art, later cherished by Italian nobility during the Renaissance. Bred as a companion and small-game courser, it spread across Europe and is now recognized worldwide for grace and sensitivity.

Physical Characteristics

Balanced and true to type with hallmark features.

  • Weight: 7–14 lb (3–6 kg)
  • Height: 13–15 in (33–38 cm)
  • Coat type: Short, satiny single coat
  • Coat colors: Many solid colours; white markings permissible
  • Distinctive traits: Fine-boned, arched neck; deep chest with tucked abdomen; long, slender limbs

Grooming

Very low-maintenance coat; protect skin and keep warm.

  • Brushing: Weekly soft glove; wipe after walks.
  • Bathing: Every 4–6 weeks or as needed.
  • Warmth: Sweaters/coats in cold Canadian winters.
  • Nails/Teeth: Frequent nail trims; small-breed dental care.

Exercise Needs

Short, zippy play with daily walks.

  • Daily duration: 30–45 minutes total.
  • Activities: Fenced sprints, lure coursing for fun, enrichment games.
  • Safety: Fragile limbs—avoid rough play and high jumps.

Training Tips

Sweet and sensitive—gentle, reward‑based training works best.

  • Focus areas: House training consistency, recall in fenced areas, calm handling.
  • Approach: Short, upbeat sessions; avoid pressure.

Nutrition & Diet

Maintain a lean, healthy physique without overfeeding.

  • Quantity: ~0.5–1 cup/day split into 2 meals; adjust to condition.

Adoption & Breeders

Seek preservation breeders who socialize thoughtfully, or consider sighthound rescues.

  • Breeders: Club referrals; ask about patella/dental focus.
  • Rescue: Italian Greyhound and sighthound networks.

Health Concerns

Choose breeders who prioritize orthopedic and dental health.

  • Orthopedic: Patellar luxation; fragile limb fractures—manage risk.
  • Dental: Small-breed periodontal care is essential.
  • Eyes: Screening recommended.
  • Life expectancy: 12–15 years.

Frequent Asked Questions

Are Italian Greyhounds good apartment dogs?
Yes—quiet, clean, and cuddly with daily walks.

Do they shed?
Low—short, fine hair.

How trainable?
High with gentle methods; sensitive to tone.

Cold weather?
Use sweaters/coats; limit prolonged exposure.

Good with kids?
Best with gentle, supervised handling.

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Italian Greyhound sitting on a forest path, slender fawn coat, centered portrait with soft green bokeh.
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