Introduction
Italian Greyhounds bear a striking resemblance to their larger counterparts, the Greyhounds, but in a daintier, more delicate form. Both breeds belong to the sighthound family, which means they rely on keen eyesight, lightning-fast speed, and graceful agility to hunt prey, rather than depending on scent or endurance like other hound breeds. Their slender, lightweight frames make them sprinters built for burst speed. Despite their energetic heritage, both Greyhounds and Italian Greyhounds cherish lazy moments, often curling up contentedly on the couch for cozy cuddle sessions with their humans.
As the tiniest members of the sighthound family, Italian Greyhounds stand a modest 13-15 inches tall. Their lean build typically ranges between 7-14 pounds, making them the quintessential lap dogs perfect for snuggling.
With a history spanning over 2,000 years according to the National Italian Greyhound Association, this elegant breed has long captivated artists and admirers alike. Dogs bearing a likeness to Italian Greyhounds appear in ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics, and their image flourished during the vibrant Renaissance period in Italy. However, the breed earned the formal name “Italian Greyhound” only after their arrival in the United Kingdom in the early 1800s.
Caring for an Italian Greyhound
Italian Greyhounds strike a perfect balance between bursts of playfulness and blissful relaxation, fitting seamlessly into lively households. Their tenderhearted and affectionate disposition makes them wonderful family members. While they are typically good around children who understand gentle interaction, they usually steer clear of small, overly boisterous kids.
Thanks to their fine, short coat, Italian Greyhounds require minimal grooming effort. However, their thin fur provides little insulation, and combined with their lean physique, they are especially vulnerable to cold weather. If you’re welcoming an Italian Greyhound puppy into your home, stock up on cozy dog sweaters and warm canine coats to keep them snug during cooler months.
Italian Greyhound Health Issues
Generally robust, Italian Greyhounds often enjoy lifespans of 14 to 15 years, which is typical for small breeds. Though some inherited health conditions exist, responsible breeders will use genetic testing to identify potential risks early. As a pet parent, it’s important to be aware of some conditions this breed may be predisposed to.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) is a hereditary group of degenerative eye diseases that gradually destroy the retina and eventually cause blindness. PRA occurs in Italian Greyhounds when both parents carry the faulty gene, though they might not show symptoms themselves. While PRA cannot be prevented or cured, ethical breeders screen breeding dogs via DNA testing to avoid passing the defective gene to puppies.
Autoimmune Disorders
This breed can be vulnerable to autoimmune ailments, where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues or organs. These disorders may impact the skin, blood, eyes, or neuromuscular systems, presenting diverse symptoms depending on which area is affected. Diagnosis requires specific testing, and while treatment varies, lifelong immunosuppressive therapy is often necessary for managing these conditions.
Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease
Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease affects the femoral head—the “ball” in the hip joint—causing it to deteriorate and leading to joint dysfunction. Though genetics likely play a role, the exact cause remains unclear. This disease typically appears in young small-breed dogs between 5 to 8 months of age, causing noticeable lameness in one hind leg. Diagnosis involves x-rays, and treatment can range from medication to surgery depending on severity.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism happens when the thyroid gland underperforms, leading to a slowed metabolism. Symptoms include tiredness, weight gain, and changes in skin and coat quality. This condition is diagnosed through a simple blood test and is effectively managed with daily thyroid hormone replacement therapy. Dogs treated for hypothyroidism generally enjoy a normal lifespan and healthy quality of life.
What To Feed an Italian Greyhound
Choosing the right diet for your Italian Greyhound depends on individual needs and lifestyle. Prioritizing high-quality ingredients is essential, and your veterinarian can tailor recommendations based on your dog’s specific health background.
Since Italian Greyhounds can become overweight if inactive, maintaining a healthy body weight by avoiding overfeeding or unrestricted access to food is crucial.
How To Feed an Italian Greyhound
Typically, Italian Greyhounds fare well on two balanced meals a day, served morning and evening. However, puppies require more frequent feedings—at least three times daily—to support their growth and energy levels.
How Much Should You Feed an Italian Greyhound?
Adhering to the feeding instructions on your dog food package ensures your Italian Greyhound receives the proper nutrients daily. For an adult weighing between 7 and 14 pounds, this usually means about 1/2 to 1 cup of food per day, split into two meals. Your vet can provide precise guidance tailored to your dog’s weight and health profile.
Nutritional Tips for Italian Greyhounds
Active Italian Greyhounds may benefit from supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health. Omega-3 fatty acids are another excellent addition, promoting a glossy coat and healthy skin alongside joint care.
Italian Greyhound Personality and Temperament
Known for their gentle, affectionate nature, Italian Greyhounds blend effortlessly into family life, including households with older children and other pets. Their moderate energy levels are easily satisfied with daily walks or outdoor play.
While they generally do well with kids who understand respectful handling, these sensitive dogs tend to shy away from overly rowdy youngsters. Always monitor interactions between children and your Italian Greyhound to prevent accidental injuries—remember, their slender, fragile frame requires gentle treatment.
Italian Greyhound Behavior
These loving companions can become quite “needy” for attention. Without adequate affection, they may become shy or overly excitable. Keep your mini Greyhound content by providing plenty of lap time and breaking up the day with short walks or engaging play sessions.
Their strong prey drive, a remnant of their hunting ancestry, means they may instinctively chase quick-moving animals like cats, rabbits, or squirrels. If smaller pets share your home, early training to curb chasing instincts is essential.
Italian Greyhound Training
Because of their sensitive disposition, Italian Greyhounds respond best to positive reinforcement. Harsh corrections can cause them to retreat or shut down emotionally. Reward good behavior with treats, toys, patience, and consistent encouragement for the most effective training results.
Fun Activities for Italian Greyhounds
- Leisurely walks
- Short-distance jogging
- Indoor or outdoor interactive play
- Lure coursing to satisfy natural chase instincts
Italian Greyhound Grooming Guide
Grooming an Italian Greyhound is straightforward and low-maintenance. They need only occasional baths and regular nail trims for optimal care.
Skin Care
Most Italian Greyhounds enjoy healthy skin without sensitivity issues, though individual needs can vary. Paying attention to any signs of irritation will help keep their skin in top condition.
Coat Care
Their sleek, short coat demands little more than occasional baths—usually only when they get dirty or smelly. Moderate shedding can be managed with a gentle weekly brush to remove loose fur and keep their coat looking radiant.
Eye Care
Clean your Italian Greyhound’s eyes regularly with a soft, damp cloth or vet-approved wipes to prevent tear stains from accumulating and maintain clear, bright eyes.
Ear Care
Maintain ear health by cleaning with a vet-recommended ear cleanser routinely, especially after any water exposure such as baths or swims, to prevent infections caused by trapped moisture.
Considerations for Pet Parents
Although Italian Greyhounds adapt well to various living environments and showcase affectionate dispositions, potential owners should consider their delicate nature. Families with very young, energetic children may find these gentle pups are better matched with older kids or adults who understand how to treat them gently and with respect.
How much do Italian Greyhounds cost?
On average, Italian Greyhounds range from $1,400 to $2,000, depending on the breeder’s reputation and location. Italian Greyhound rescues are an excellent alternative for finding loving dogs in need of homes.
What’s the difference between Whippets vs. Italian Greyhounds?
Whippets and Italian Greyhounds may seem quite alike in both look and temperament, which can cause confusion. However, Whippets are larger (about 22 inches tall and 25-40 pounds) and classified in the hound group, while Italian Greyhounds are smaller and belong to the toy group.
How big do Italian Greyhounds get?
Adult Italian Greyhounds typically stand between 13 and 15 inches at the shoulder and weigh from 7 to 14 pounds.
How long do Italian Greyhounds live?
The average lifespan of an Italian Greyhound is a healthy 14 to 15 years.
