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© Sparkmom (Shawn And Sue Roberts) | Dreamstime.com
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Italian Greyhound
Nickname: Iggies
Breed origin: Ancient Greece and Turkey
Original purpose: There is debate as to whether he was originally bred for hunting small game or was meant to be simply a companion. In all likelihood, both are true, as he is adaptable to city and country life.
AKC recognized: 1886
AKC group: Toy
Size:
Weight: 7 to 15 lbs
Size: Height: 13 to 15 inches
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© Qiwoman01 (Jennifer Walz) | Dreamstime.com
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Color: Any color and markings (except brindle or tan markings).
General characteristics/temperament: The Italian Greyhound is fast, agile, athletic, affectionate, mischievous, hardy, sensitive, and alert. They have a very high prey drive, and must be kept leashed at all times unless in a securely fenced area. They remain playful well into adulthood, and are eager to please and learn quickly. They adapt well to most households and typically get along well with other pets and children. Because of their very short coat, they do not tolerate the cold, and may need to wear coats or sweaters in colder climates. They also do not like to get their body or feet wet, so some owners train them to use indoor potty pads so they do not need to go outside in bad weather.
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© Qiwoman01 (Jennifer Walz) | Dreamstime.com
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Good with children? Yes
Good with other dogs? Yes
Good watchdog? Yes
Protective? No
OK in apartments? Yes
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© Anna63 (Anna Utekhina) | Dreamstime.com
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Suitable canine sports/activities: conformation, lure coursing, agility
Grooming requirement: Bath occasionally. They do shed but the amount of hair shed is very little and easily vacuumed. They are prone to periodontal disease and must have their teeth brushed daily.
Known health problems: Periodontal disease, sensitivity to anesthetics, epilepsy, Legg-Perthes disease, patellar luxation, von Willebrand's disease, progressive retinal atrophy, color dilution alopecia, cataracts, autoimmune diseases, hypothyroidism, portal systemic shunts, vitreous degeneration.
Additional photos of Italian Greyhound
Recommended books for further reading:Show more books
Other websites for additional information:
American Kennel Club breed page
Italian Greyhound Club of America
Wikipedia breed information page
Italian Greyhound Club of America Rescue
DogBreedMatch
