| Breed
Group:
Toy |
| Weight:
7-14 lbs |
| Height:
13-15 inches |
| Color(s):
any color but brindle or black and tan |
| Coat:
The Italian Greyhound has a very beautiful coat that consists of short and fine hair. This breed looks like a smaller version of the greyhound and has the same basic coat texture and shine. The skin of this breed should always be supple while the hair should be short and glossy, much like satin. The hair should always be soft to the touch, never coarse. |
| Overview:
The Italian Greyhound was brought to Europe by the Phoenicians when it was later developed by the Romans. This breed was a favorite by Catherine the Great of Russia. This breed is now most commonly seen in a family environment, as a companion. The Italian Greyhound can be very shy and timid; however can also be destructive in an endearing way. Harsh punishment is sure to drive this dog into submission, so gentle handling and correction is a must. |
| Character:
The Italian Greyhound is very dependent and does not do well in a kennel type environment. This breed should always be kept as a companion. They can be somewhat high strung, but are very sensitive and always need reassurance by their owner that they have not done something naughty. The Italian Greyhound is a very active dog and is very fast, making him great for agility trials in which he is commonly used. |
| Temperament:
Italian Greyhounds make wonderful companions, especially for a family. However, they should never be placed in a home with small children. This breed is so sensitive and can be very timid that small children that pester will be sure to make this dog extremely timid. The Italian Greyhound does fairly well around other dogs, but does best in a home with other Italian Greyhounds as this breed does not do well around large and more dominant dogs. |
| Care:
The Italian Greyhound has a coat that is very easy to groom. This breed sheds very little if any hair making grooming very simple. A regular wipe down with a soft towel or chamois is sure to keep his coat in tiptop shape and looking glossy and beautiful. The teeth of this breed should be brushed on a regular basis to prevent tartar buildup and/or gum disease. Italian Greyhounds should be protected from the cold and should have their nails clipped at least once every two weeks. |
| Training:
The Italian Greyhound can be extremely difficult to train, as they can be very high-strung, yet so sensitive at the same time. Many times this requires professional training from a trainer experienced with the Italian Greyhound. Housebreaking can be very difficult, even though they are very intelligent and eager to please. Obedience classes are definitely recommended as this breed has the tendency to become very submissive if corrected in a harsh manner. |
| Activity:
The Italian Greyhound is very lively and active so he should require vigorous exercise daily. This breed loves long walks and runs and does best with at least a small yard to roam free in. This breed is very fast and agile so jogging and running are his specialty and he sure loves to do it. The Italian Greyhound however should always be kept on leash or in a safe and fenced in area as this breed has the tendency to wander off if let loose in an open area. |
| Ownership: If
you are looking for Italian Greyhound puppies for sale from reputable Italian Greyhound breeders or to adopt an
Italian Greyhound from an Italian Greyhound rescue then make sure you understand
as much about the dog
breeds you are interested in as you can. Every puppy
breed is different. Begin your research by reading the
breed information about the Italian Greyhound puppy above. Search our dog breeds section
to find Italian Greyhound puppies, dogs
and puppies
that make great pets.
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