Italian Greyhound Dog Breed Information

  • AKA:Piccolo Levrieve Italiani
  • Size:Small
  • Ease of Training:Low/Medium
  • Grooming:Low
  • Shedding:Low
  • Exercise Needed:Daily Walk
  • Energy Level:Medium/ High
  • Protection:Can make an effective watchdog
  • Good with Children:Yes, with gentle, older children
  • Health Clearances:OFA, CERF
  • Weight:7-14 lbs
  • Height:13-15 inches
  • Coat Colour:Any colour but brindle or black and tan

Italian Greyhound 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.

Italian Greyhound 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.

Italian Greyhound 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.

Italian Greyhound 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. Italian Greyhounds should be protected from the cold and should have their nails clipped at least once every two weeks.

Italian Greyhound 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.

Italian Greyhound Health and Life Expectancy

There are a number of health problems linked with this breed, and amongst the health issues to look out for are: sensitivity to drugs and chemicals, thyroid problems, seizures, leg fractures stemming from vigorous jumping, luxating patella, autoimmune disorders, and PRA. You should also bear in mind that the Italian Greyhound can be extremely sensitive to cold because of his size and thin skin, and should always wear a jumper in colder weather. Soft bedding will also be necessary to reduce the risk of pressure sores developing as a result of his thin skin. The slender build of the Italian Greyhound also means that he can be easily injured if handled roughly or if allowed to jump around from heights. The parents of the Italian Greyhound puppy should have OFA and CERF certificates. The lifespan of the Italian Greyhound is around 13-15 years.