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

© Qiwoman01 (Jennifer Walz) | Dreamstime.com

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.

© Qiwoman01 (Jennifer Walz) | Dreamstime.com

Good with children? Yes

Good with other dogs? Yes

Good watchdog? Yes

Protective? No

OK in apartments? Yes

© Anna63 (Anna Utekhina) | Dreamstime.com

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

Italian Greyhound (A Complete and Reliable Handbook)
By Dean Keppler
Published in 1999
93 pages

Italian Greyhound (A Comprehensive Owner's Guide)
By Dino Mazzanti
Published in 2004
160 pages

The Italian Greyhound, 21st Century
By L ilian Barber and Joan M Cooper
Published in 2002
324 pages

Italian Greyhounds Today
By Annette Oliver
Published in 2002
160 pages

Italian Greyhounds
By Louis F. Russo
Published in 1990
192 pages

The Italian Greyhound: Nuts and Bolts Book for all IG Lovers
By Patricia Kelly
Published in 2002
203 pages

The New Complete Italian Greyhound
By Lilian Barber
Published in 1993
244 pages

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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

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Page Last Updated: February 1, 2018

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