Italian Greyhound

Dog Breed Group

Toy Dogs 

Origin of Breed

Greece or Turkey 

Life Expectancy

14 - 16 years 

Color

Solid black, blue, cream, fawn, red or white or any of these colors with broken white. 

Coat

Short, fine and glossy 

Exercise Needs

Free play and regular walks. 

Temperament

Quiet and affectionate. 

Good with Children

Good with children if they are mature. They are good with other dogs, sometimes cats. Make a good family pet. 

Grooming Needs

Easy to groom. He requires is a rub down with a soft cloth or chemise. Bathe only when necessary, but take care that he is thoro 

Average Size - Male (in)

13 - 15 

Average Size - Female (in)

13 - 15 

Average Weight - Male (lbs)

< 8 

Average Weight - Female (lbs)

< 8 

Health Issues

Prone to broken legs, slipped kneecaps, and hereditary eye problems.v

Living Conditions

Indoors, city or country, apartment or house, needs daily exercise and attention. The owner of an Italian Greyhound should be an 

Breed Description

The Italian greyhound is a breed of toy dog that derived from the greyhound. They were found in tombs of Egypt, and were popular with the Italians in the Middle Ages and was depicted in many Renaissance paintings. This breed is believed to have originated more than 2,000 years ago in the Mediterranean basin, possible in countries now known as Greece and Turkey. It has existed in its present form for more than 2,000 years and has been a favourite of the aristocracy. It became known as Italian greyhounds because they were a favorite of rich Italians in the 16th century. They are known for its extremely prominent, large, round eyes and thin, glossy coat that may be red-brown, fawn- or cream-coloured, white, blue-gray, or gray. The Italian greyhound is usually an active, gentle dog. They are very graceful and have a high-stepping gait. They adapt well to other pets and to children and are affectionate and playful.

Breed Infobits

The Italian Greyhound is also known as the Piccolo Levriert Italiani.
The Italian Greyhound is the smallest of the sight hounds (dogs that hunt by sight).
During cold weather it may be necessary to provide a jacket to keep an Italian Greyhound warm.Mummified specimens of the Italian Greyhound have been found in ancient Egyptian tombs.