Height: 13-15 inches
Weight: 7-12 lbs.
Life Span: 13-15 yrs.
Breed Group: Sight Hounds
Overview
The gentleness, beauty, and grace of Italian greyhounds have endeared them
to dog owners around the world.
They are ideal for city and apartment living. Quiet, sensitive, and affectionate,
they need very little training, although obedience classes are recommended
for fine-tuning and to expose them to different types of environments, animals,
and people.
Some can be difficult to house-train. They get along with children who treat
them gently and are perfect companions for the elderly. They are usually
submissive to other dogs and friendly with small animals, such as cats.
Appearance
The Italian greyhound is known for its slender, graceful appearance and
unique high-stepping gait.
The coat is short, soft, and glossy. All colors except for black and tan
and brindle are seen; the most common are fawn, blue, black, and red. White
markings may appear on the face, chest, tail tip, and feet.
Grooming & Exercise Needs
Italian greyhounds need to be brushed weekly with a hound glove. They appreciate
a sweater to wear outside in the winter and need a few brisk walks daily.
Origins
Italian greyhounds were developed about 2,500 years ago by breeding small
greyhounds with each other. They were admired by the ancient Egyptians and
Romans and were favorites of the kings and queens of 17th-century Europe.
Breed-related health concerns: epilepsy, dental problems, broken
legs, progressive retinal atrophy, patellar luxation.
Reference: AKC - American Kennel Club |
