Italian Greyhound

Italian Greyhound 101: Traits, Shedding and Exercise Needs for Busy Families

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
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 of the Italian Greyhound

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.

Italian Greyhound Appearance: Size, Coat & Distinctive Features

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

How to Groom a Italian Greyhound: Coat Care & Maintenance

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.

Italian Greyhound Exercise Needs: Daily Activity & Playtime Tips

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 a Italian Greyhound: Behavior, Commands & Socialization

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.

Italian Greyhound Diet: Feeding Schedule & Nutrition Tips

Maintain a lean, healthy physique without overfeeding.

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

Italian Greyhound Health Issues: Common Problems & Lifespan

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.

Where to Adopt or Find Italian Greyhound Puppies in Canada

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions About the Italian Greyhound

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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