Italian Greyhound -
Purebred Dogs and Puppies

A member of the Toy group, The Italian Greyhound is a very

ancient and hardy breed even though they give the impression of extreme fragility.

Best home for this dog breed is in a quiet household where there are no loud children.

They can get snappy when frightened and they can be difficult to house train. They also like to be up on high spots in your house like the back of chairs or your sofa so be careful - they can be quite the daredevil.

They are cold sensitive so a sweater is a must in colder climates and they do well in apartments with sufficient exercise.

They are the smallest members of the family of sight hounds (dogs that hunt primarily by sight).

They are very cat-like in some ways - one being that they enjoy sunbathing. Be very careful that they do not get sunburned or overheated.

See a few of these guys in action

The breed is believed to have originated more than 2,000 years ago in the Mediterranean basin, possibly in the countries now known as Greece and Turkey.

The coat requires very little grooming. This dog is virtually odorless and sheds very little and had a wonderful high stepping gait. They adapt to most households and enjoy the company of children and other pets when socialized early on.

If you do not like constant company, even while in the bathroom, an IG may not be the perfect breed for you. They will follow you everywhere and will want to be your constant companion.

Country of origin: Introduced to Europe by Phoenicians
Lifespan: 10-15 years
Colors: Solid gray, slate gray, cream, red, fawn, black or blue broken up with shades of white
Known health problems: Fractures, slipped stifle, epilepsy, PRA

Additionally, Did You Know This:

• They are the smallest of the sight hounds.

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

• Like many smaller breeds, the Italian Greyhound can be difficult to housebreak.

• IGs have in fact been used for hunting purposes, often used in combination with hunting falcons.

• IG's usually grow until they are between six and eight months of age. Typically, after that time they will fill out and mature.

• Lure coursing is one activity well-fitted to the Italian Greyhound.

• They only weigh, on the average, ten pounds.

Want more information about the IG? Read more about this
wonderful little dog from an IG expert with years of experience.

Is An Italian Greyhound Right For You?

Retun from Italian Greyhound to Toy Dog Group