Italian Greyhound

Sleek and refined, the Italian Greyhound is a miniature version of the Greyhound bred not for racing, but as a devoted companion to high society. Gentle, affectionate, and eager for attention, this breed is known for its endearing sensitivity and charm, which have kept it a favorite for centuries.

With a slender build, short glossy coat, long muzzle, and expressive eyes, the Italian Greyhound stands out among sighthounds. Though about half the height of a standard Greyhound, it carries the same elegance and athletic grace.

Despite its dainty size, the Italian Greyhound is bold and agile, often leaping off furniture without regard for its fragile bones. Minimal grooming is required, but housetraining can be challenging. Due to a delicate frame, fractures are a known risk, and owners should take care to limit rough play and high-impact activity.

This breed adapts well to apartment living when given regular exercise and mental stimulation, especially during puppyhood. Grooming is simple: occasional brushing, routine nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental care are usually sufficient.

Training can be tricky. Italian Greyhounds are intelligent but independent, sometimes showing “creative” disobedience. Consistent, gentle, and firm training from an early age is essential for success.

While they should be protected from rough children and larger dogs, Italian Greyhounds generally coexist well with other dogs and cats, making them affectionate and loyal companions in the right home.

Italian Greyhound Dog Breed Guide: Temperament, Care, And Fun Facts

Introduction: Are you thinking of getting an Italian Greyhound and worried about care, training, or fragile bones? Many people ask if these small dogs fit apartment life, if they get along with children, and how hard they are to groom.

The American Kennel Club notes that Italian Greyhounds make great companions and that their median lifespan is about 14 years.

This guide covers temperament, training tips, grooming needs, and health issues like broken legs and dental disease. It will help you find reputable italian greyhound breeders, understand rescue groups, and use basic veterinary medicine steps to keep your dog healthy.

Key Takeaways

• Italian Greyhounds (32–38 cm, up to 5 kg) sprint to 60 km/h (35 mph) and have a median lifespan of about 14 years.
• Request OFA hip clearances (0% hip dysplasia among 157 breeds) and screen puppies for deafness, PRA, cervical disc, dental, and thyroid problems.
• Use positive reinforcement, short daily sessions, early socialization, about one hour of activity, a sturdy harness, and coats in cold weather for fragile pups.
• They need minimal grooming—weekly soft brushing and regular dental care—and a high-protein diet with omega-3s, portioned into two daily meals.
• Ancestors date back over 2,000 years; 40 listed in 1874, six shown in 1901, post-WWII revival after 1951, and FCI recognition in October 1956.

History and Origin

Ancestors of the Italian Greyhound date back more than 2,000 years in southern Europe. Archaeological digs and a 2nd century AD marble statue from Lanuvio show small greyhound skeletons.

People in the middle ages and Renaissance painted the little dogs in many works, and renaissance paintings highlight their slim bones and smooth coat. Nobility and royal families prized the breed for hunting hare and rabbit.

Famous owners include Frederick II, the DEste and Medici families, the Visconti, Louis XI, Charles VIII, Louis XIV, Frederick the Great, Anne of Denmark, Catherine the Great, and Queen Victoria.

Collectors and breeders brought Italian greyhound dogs to Britain in the early 19th century. The Kennel Club Calendar and Stud Book listed 40 Italian Greyhounds in 1874. Six dogs appeared at shows in Milan and Novara in 1901, shaping modern standards.

Numbers fell sharply during World War II, but recovery followed. Maria Luisa Incontri Lotteringhi della Stufa imported an influential female dog after 1951 and helped revive adult Italian greyhounds.

The FCI granted recognition in October 1956, and the Circolo del Levriero Italiano club formed that year.

Physical Characteristics

The Italian Greyhound is one of the miniature greyhounds known for elegance and agility. Its slender legs and long neck support a deep chest and a tucked abdomen. A muscular body helps it sprint up to 60 km/h, 35 mph while the dog stays alert and playful.

Median longevity sits at about 14 years for the italian greyhound dog breed.

The short coat sheds little dead hair and often shows white markings. The face looks delicate with bright eyes and movable dog’s ears that add to its gentle personality. Young italian greyhound puppies look fragile and get cold easily, so handle them carefully around boisterous children, other dogs, and cats to avoid accidentally hurt.

Check reputable breeders and plan for a small leash and a doggy door sized for the adult dog.

Body and Structure

Lean, light frames make them fast.

Adults stand 32–38 cm tall, about 13–15 inches. They weigh up to 5 kg, or 11 lbs, and have a slim, elegant frame. A deep chest, tucked abdomen, long legs, and a long neck define the build.

Many owners know italian greyhounds belong to the toy group, and both AKC and UK Kennel Club recognize the breed.

A lean, light body makes them quick sprinters able to reach 60 km/h, or 35 mph. The FCI classifies them as sighthounds, which explains their sharp chase drive. Use a scale and measuring tape to track growth for an italian greyhound puppy or a young dog.

Local italian greyhound club members often warn that slim bones can suffer patellar luxation or hip joint problems, so handle them gently.

Face and Expression

Large dark ocular features give Italian Greyhounds a soft, pleading look. Their face reflects the italian greyhound personality, sensitive and loyal, and they love to be around people.

Thin snouts and high cheekbones show a playful, sociable nature. They act like Velcro dogs, sticking close to owners.

Facial cues work as the breed’s main language, since italian greyhounds bark only sometimes and often use expression instead. New owners of a first italian greyhound should watch lips and gaze for signs of pain tied to dental problems, gum disease, or tartar buildup.

Simple italian greyhound care, like tooth brushing, vet checks, fresh water, two meals, short walks, and regular exercise, keeps the snout healthy and helps sensitive dogs live well with other pets.

Coat and Color

The Italian Greyhound has a smooth, short coat that lies close to the body. This italian greyhound overview notes accepted colors: solid black, grey, or isabelline, with white allowed only on the chest and feet.

Owners also see fawn, chocolate, tan, cream, red, and sable on some dogs.

A short coat sheds minimally and stays low maintenance for most homes. Use a soft brush and a vacuum as grooming tools to remove sparse hairs and to keep skin healthy. Keep in mind this big personality breed was bred for companionship and remains generally good among small breeds.

Movement and Gait

They move with agility and elegance. Their sighthound build lets them sprint at speeds up to 60 km/h, 35 mph. Slender, long legs and a lightweight frame make their gait quick and graceful.

Movement looks efficient and fluid, reflecting hunting origins.

Watch gait for signs of knee cap trouble or uneven strides. Early signs may mean a vet will test the thyroid gland or check other health conditions. Modern interest rose during a second renaissance for the breed, so more tools exist for study.

Use gait analysis tools like video recording, pressure mat, GPS tracker, and heart rate monitor to spot odd steps. Vets may use biomechanics to measure stride and force. Owners can share clips with a vet and start daily medication if the vet prescribes it.

Temperament and Behavior

Italian Greyhounds stay alert and playful. Owners find them sociable, and they thrive on human companionship. Strong attachments form with one or two handlers. Sensitive temperaments can cause timidity around strangers.

Smart yet independent minds sometimes show stubborn streaks. Regular socialization helps reduce fear. Positive reinforcement and a training tool, like a reward marker, speed lessons.

Playful interactions suit both city flats and larger homes.

Health Considerations

The breed shows a median longevity of about 14 years, higher than the 12.5-year average across breeds. Owners should plan regular veterinary checkups, genetic screening, and DNA tests to catch congenital deafness early.

The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals reports 0% hip dysplasia among 157 breeds, the lowest rate recorded.

Watch for signs of cervical intervertebral disc disease, such as neck pain, weak limbs, or sudden stiffness. Prompt neurological exams and radiographs guide treatment and can improve recovery.

Keep homes warm and choose gentle harnesses to protect the spine and keep canines safe.

Common Concerns

Italian Greyhounds are generally healthy dogs. Owners should watch for specific inherited and dental issues.

• Congenital deafness can occur in Italian Greyhounds; run a hearing test, such as BAER, on puppies and ask breeders for proof before you adopt.
• Cervical intervertebral disc disease can cause neck pain; avoid high jumps, use ramps, and consult your veterinarian for imaging if you notice stiffness or sudden weakness.
• Hip dysplasia shows 0% incidence for Italian Greyhounds among 157 breeds, per the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals; request OFA hip clearances from breeders before purchasing.
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy can lead to vision loss; order genetic screening and schedule annual eye exams with a veterinary ophthalmologist.
• Autoimmune disorders and hypothyroidism appear in some dogs; promptly test thyroid levels and pursue immune panels when unexplained symptoms appear.
• Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease may strike young pups with sudden limping; get imaging and consult a surgeon about hip repair if X-rays confirm the problem.
• Dental care prevents periodontal disease; brush teeth daily, talk to a vet about professional cleanings, and schedule regular dental scaling as recommended.
• Responsible breeders screen for deafness, PRA, thyroid problems, and cervical disc risk; request health certificates, genetic screening results, and OFA records before buying a puppy.
• Regular veterinary checks catch issues early; schedule yearly exams and discuss breed risks, dental plans, and genetic screening with your clinic.

Lifespan

They typically live 13 to 15 years, with a median lifespan of about 14 years. That median tops the 12.5 years seen across all breeds. The breed is generally long-lived for a small dog.

Owners should schedule regular vet visits for preventive care. Vets perform vaccinations, dental care, and health screening during exams. Good nutrition and early treatment help dogs stay active into their teens.

Training Considerations

Start training Italian Greyhounds at a young age. Use positive reinforcement and reward calm focus. Keep sessions short and engaging to hold their interest. Expect stubborn moments even with bright pups.

Use a marker device, leash, and rewards to shape behavior. Teach enclosure manners for safe alone time.

Early socialization reduces fear of strangers and other animals. Join puppy classes or supervised play to practice greetings. Use reward-based training to reinforce calm reactions around pets.

Keep calm cues short, clear, and consistent during walks. Consistency and patience are key to successful training. Expect steady gains when you train in small, daily bursts.

Exercise and Socialization

Italian Greyhounds need daily activity and social time. They do best with short walks, play, and human company.

1. Provide about 1 hour of exercise daily, split into short walks or play sessions. Carry a short lead for safety during walks and quick sprints.
2. Offer daily mental work like puzzle toys, short training sessions, or scent games to lower excess energy. Try a training device and positive reinforcement to teach recall and calm behaviors.
3. Keep them near family members; they thrive on human companionship and can get lonely when left alone for long periods. Use a rest enclosure during short absences and train gradual alone time.
4. Supervise play with larger dogs due to the breed’s small frame and fragile limbs. Start in short, leashed introductions inside a fenced yard or controlled off-leash area only when safe.
5. Fence your yard completely; Italian Greyhounds have a strong prey drive and will chase squirrels or rabbits. Secure all gates and always use a leash for unsupervised outdoor time.
6. Dress them in coats or sweaters in chilly weather because they feel cold easily from thin fur and low body fat. Limit outdoor time in very low temperatures and dry them quickly after rain.
7. Attend puppy socialization class and ongoing training to build polite habits and reduce fear. Consult your veterinarian for behavior concerns, health checks, or advice on exercise plans.

Living with an Italian Greyhound

These dogs stay alert, playful, and highly affectionate. They weigh no more than 5 kg (11 lbs) and stand 32 to 38 cm (13 to 15 inches) tall. Their slender build, long legs, and deep chest show elegant agility and let them sprint up to 60 km/h (35 mph).

Owners should provide a kennel, lead, chest strap, dog bed, and regular vet checks to keep them safe and warm. Owners now cherish them for companionship. They come from lines bred for hunting small game, which explains their chase drive and need for short, fast play.

Use a sound trainer and short sprints to channel energy and keep training positive.

Best Environment

Italian Greyhounds fit well in a studio apartment because of their small size. Owners must balance exercise and rest. Use a front-clip jogging harness and a 6-foot leash for short runs and trips to an off-leash dog park.

They enjoy lounging on a soft sofa after activity.

Multi-pet households adapt easily to this breed. Cold weather can make them uncomfortable outdoors due to a thin coat. Keep a fleece coat and a cozy crate or bed inside for chilly days.

A calm household lowers stress and suits their sensitive nature.

Behavior towards Children

These dogs generally get along well with children. Their small, delicate build means parents must use caution during play. Supervise all interactions to prevent accidental injury.

Use gentle handling and positive reinforcement during training and play. Keep the dog on a lead or inside a secure enclosure for first meetings. Teach kids to pet at the chest and side, not the head, and to avoid sudden grabs.

Behavior towards other Pets

Italian Greyhounds stay affectionate and social with other animals. They thrive in pairs, and 2 dogs reduce loneliness. Playful interactions with other dogs suit their lively nature.

Proper introduction and consistent, positive socialization keep relationships calm and safe. Early socialization helps prevent timidity and builds adaptability in multi-pet households.

Carry a leash for first meetings, set a rest space for calm breaks, and use positive reinforcement with a training device. Pair play at an outdoor play area speeds bonding and lowers stress.

Grooming Needs

This breed has a smooth, short coat that needs little work. Minimal shedding keeps grooming time short.

• Use a soft brush or grooming glove once or twice weekly to lift loose hair and dirt. A brush suits the short coat and keeps skin healthy.
• Give occasional baths with mild dog shampoo when the dog gets dirty. Towel dry after rinsing; the thin coat dries fast and needs few washes.
• Trim nails with clippers every few weeks to prevent pain and hoof problems. Keep sessions calm, and stop if you see blood or stress.
• Brush teeth with a toothbrush and enzymatic toothpaste several times weekly to prevent periodontal disease, a common issue in this breed. Add dental chews for extra support.
• Put a lightweight coat or sweater on cold walks during winter, since low body fat makes them chill easily. Short outings help when temperatures drop.
• Schedule regular veterinary dental checks and routine exams. Keep clippers, a soft brush, dog shampoo, and a toothbrush on hand for simple home care.

Nutrition and Feeding

Feed Italian Greyhounds a high-protein diet that includes omega-3 fatty acids. Add salmon oil or flaxseed to boost omega-3s for skin and joint health. Puppy meals must use nutrient-dense, real food rich in calcium, phosphorus, vitamin D, iron, and other essential vitamins and minerals for proper growth.

Measure portions with a measuring cup and track calories to avoid rapid growth or excess weight. Most adults eat two meals per day and do not need special feeding instructions; offer dry food, canned food, or fresh meat options only after consulting a veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist.

Brush teeth weekly, use a dog toothbrush, and give dental chews or specific dental diets to help prevent dental disease.

Where to find an Italian Greyhound

Contact the American Kennel Club for puppy listings, registration help, and breeder referrals. Use the AKC website and store to read breed guides, buy gear, and find grooming referrals plus training assistance.

Search national clubs for breeder lists and health records. Circolo del Levriero Italiano and Ente Nazionale della Cinofilia Italiana (ENCI), Italian breed organizations, can help owners in Italy.

The Italian Greyhound Club began in Britain in 1900 and posts breeder contacts and care information.

Similar Dog Breeds

Below is a quick guide to breeds similar to the Italian Greyhound, AKC recognized in 1886.

Conclusion

Conclusion: This guide recaps temperament, care, grooming, training, and fun facts about the Italian Greyhound. You will find clear tips on exercise, socialization, and safe home setups for this companion dog.

AKC data and OFA reports support low hip dysplasia rates and longer median longevity for the breed. Use short, positive training sessions and matched exercise to respect the dog’s sensitive nature.

Check local AKC puppy search, grooming referrals, and training classes to connect with trusted services. Enjoy every calm cuddle and fast sprint, and let this small sighthound bring warmth and speed to your home.

FAQs

1. What is the Italian Greyhound dog breed temperament?

The Italian Greyhound is gentle and affectionate. This small dog moves fast and shows strong prey drive. It bonds closely with owners and can be shy with strangers.

2. What care does this dog breed need?

Give this dog daily short exercise and safe leash walks. Brush its short coat and clean teeth often. Use a warm coat in cold weather and check hips and teeth at vet visits.

3. Are common myths about this breed true?

No, this dog is not too fragile for normal life. It needs careful handling, but it adapts well to apartment life. It also lives about 12 to 15 years with good care.

4. What fun facts and training tips help owners?

This dog has ancient roots and it can run very fast. Train with short, positive sessions and start socializing early. Use leash training to prevent chasing small animals.

References

1. https://www.thesprucepets.com/italian-greyhound-dog-breed-profile-4781785 (2025-06-13)
2. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/italian-greyhound-history/ (2024-05-29)
3. https://www.petmd.com/dog/breeds/italian-greyhound
4. https://www.borrowmydoggy.com/doggypedia/dog-breed-guides-italian-greyhound
5. https://www.aspcapetinsurance.com/resources/italian-greyhound/
6. https://lyka.com.au/blog/italian-greyhound-breed-guide (2025-02-20)
7. https://www.rover.com/blog/italian-greyhound-vs-greyhound/ (2024-07-31)
8. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11718627/