Italian Greyhound Breed Information & Characteristics

The Italian Greyhound is a dog breed that has a low to average risk for obesity. This means that they are less likely to gain weight than some breeds, but it is still important to monitor their food intake and ensure they get enough exercise to maintain a healthy weight and overall well-being.

While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, Italian Greyhounds are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.

Affectionate
Athletic
Intelligent
Agile
Companionable
Mischievous

Italian Greyhound will shed a negligible amount of hair. Some owners say that they do not shed, but that is not true. But the amount of shedding can be rather light than other dog breeds. If you do not want to deal with the hairs flying around in your home, then this breed is a perfect choice for you.

The Italian Greyhound dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, this breed will alert their owner.

Italy

Sighthound

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club

Ancient Times

Toy (AKC:1886)
Companion Breeds (UKC)

Brown

Black
Brown

Red
Gray
Black
Brindle
Sable
Pied
White
Blue
Fawn
Cream

Italian Greyhounds are known for their short coat.

Straight

An Italian Greyhound can have a litter of 12-15 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Italian Greyhounds are known for their adaptability and versatility, they are capable of adapting well to a wide range of lifestyle changes and living environments. They are a highly adaptable breed, and make great companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

The Italian Greyhound is generally considered to be healthy. However, like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain health issues and it is important to keep an eye out for them and address them with your veterinarian as needed.

Periodontal Disease

Patellar Luxation
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Epilepsy
Leg Fractures

Eye
Knee
Skeletal
X-Rays
MRI
Eye Examination

Italian Greyhounds are known for their high energy levels, so if you're looking for a more low-key dog, this breed may not be the best choice.

Italian Greyhounds have average social needs compared to other breeds. They are known to be less active and independent than other breeds, and they are content with spending time alone and with their human family.

The Italian Greyhound dog requires a moderate amount of physical activity to maintain a healthy lifestyle. These breeds are ideal for people who have a moderate amount of time to devote to their pet and enjoy regular physical activity themselves. They also make great family pets as they have the energy to keep up with children and the temperament to be great companions.

Italian Greyhounds dogs are tend to sleep less than other breeds, but they still require adequate sleep to maintain good health.

The Italian Greyhound is a breed of dog that is characterized by its minimal drooling, making it an ideal choice for people who dislike drool marks on their clothing.

Italian Greyhounds tend to bark moderately, they bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner or to communicate something. They may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.

These dogs are known for their strong territorial instinct and protective nature. They will fiercely defend their territory and are highly alert and vigilant against any perceived threat to their home and family.

Cuddling, Dog Parks, Snuggling, Walk, Run, Frisbee, Fetch, Nose work, Eating Snacks, Running, Racing, Nervous, Going on drives, Growling, Biting

Italian Greyhounds are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Italian Greyhound, it's at least 6 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

In general most Italian Greyhounds usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

The Italian Greyhound is a breed of dog that does not require extensive grooming.

Italian Greyhound should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot

Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper

For an average 7-14 pound (3 - 6 kg) Italian Greyhound feed 1.3 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

The average cost of an Italian Greyhound is somewhere $1.40 - $1.70 per day.

The average per month expenses of an Italian Greyhound is between $42 - $53. This makes an average of $504 - $636 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

The Italian Greyhound have below the average degree of obedience intelligence among other breeds. However, calling them “dumb dogs” is unfair. Where Italian Greyhounds lack in obedience & working intelligence, they make up for it with their keen ability to understand human emotions.

This dog breed is particularly attuned to its environment and the emotions of those around it. It can be easily overwhelmed by loud noises, new environments, and unfamiliar people or animals. This dog is best suited for individuals or families who are patient, gentle, and understanding of its sensitive nature. It may also benefit from a calm and stable home environment, with a consistent routine and plenty of positive reinforcement training.

Italian Greyhounds are dogs that do well in apartments with sufficient exercise, but they would really appreciate a small yard.

Italian Greyhound dogs are not kid-friendly.

Italian Greyhounds are an average cat friendly dog. They do well with cats, even more if raised together from puppyhood,

Italian Greyhounds are average friendly towards other dogs. If they are raised with other dogs, they are likely to get along with them. And, if they are socialized properly from a young age, they will usually be great with other dogs.

Italian Greyhounds are average friendly around strangers. They can be wary around strangers and a little standoffish. Early socialisation is key.

Italian Greyhounds have an average level of playfulness. The Italian Greyhounds, like other dogs, like to play. But they are not the most playful dog breed.

Italian Greyhound dogs are usually easy to train, but may require consistency to fully obey commands.