Italian Greyhound vs. Sheltie Inu: Breed Differences and Similarities

Hypoallergenic

Are Italian Greyhounds or Sheltie Inus hypoallergenic, or neither?

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.

Unfortunately, the Sheltie Inu is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Italian Greyhound and Sheltie Inu dogs?

Affectionate
Athletic
Intelligent
Agile
Companionable
Mischievous

Playful
Alert
Intelligent
Confident
Friendly
Responsive
Affectionate
Lively
Gentle
Going
Fearless
Keen
Faithful
Charming

Shedding Level

Do Italian Greyhounds shed more than Sheltie Inus, or which breed sheds more, Italian Greyhounds or Sheltie Inus?

1 / 5

Italian Greyhounds shed very little hair, making them a great choice for those who dislike excess hair in the house.

4 / 5

Sheltie Inus are heavy shedders, but regular brushing can help manage shedding and promote a healthy coat.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Italian Greyhound or Sheltie Inu?

3 / 5

Italian Greyhounds are decent watchdogs - they'll alert their owner if something seems amiss.

2 / 5

Sheltie Inus aren't great guard dogs; they tend to just watch without taking action.

Ancestry

What are the origins of Italian Greyhound and Sheltie Inu breeds?

Sighthound

Shiba Inu and Shetland Sheepdog

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Italian Greyhound and Sheltie Inu?

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

ACHC = American Canine Hybrid Club
DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.

Date of Birth

When were Italian Greyhound and Sheltie Inu breeds first developed?

Ancient Times

Unknown

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Italian Greyhound and Sheltie Inu dogs?

Brown

Blue
Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Italian Greyhound and Sheltie Inu?

Black
Brown

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Italian Greyhound and Sheltie Inu breeds?

Red
Gray
Black
Brindle
Sable
Pied
White
Blue
Fawn
Cream

Black
Pied
Red
Brown
Sable
Cream

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Italian Greyhound and Sheltie Inu breeds?

1 / 5

Italian Greyhounds have short coats.

3 / 5

Sheltie Inus have medium-length coats.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Italian Greyhound and Sheltie Inu?

1 / 5

4 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Italian Greyhound and Sheltie Inu?

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Italian Greyhound and Sheltie Inu?

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.

A Sheltie Inu can have a litter of 4-6 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.

Adaptability

5 / 5

Italian Greyhound and Sheltie Inus are known for their adaptability and versatility. They are capable of adapting well to a wide range of lifestyle changes and living environments, making them great companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Health Issues

Between Italian Greyhound and Sheltie Inu, which breed is more prone to health problems?

3 / 5

Italian Greyhound and Sheltie Inu breeds are 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.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Italian Greyhound and Sheltie Inu breeds?

Periodontal Disease

Patellar Luxation
Canine Hip Dysplasia
Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA)
Ulcerative Dermatosis

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Italian Greyhound and Sheltie Inu?

Patellar Luxation
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Epilepsy
Leg Fractures

Cataracts
Hypothyroidism
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
Corneal Dystrophy
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA)
vonWillebrand’s Disease

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Italian Greyhound and Sheltie Inu breeds?

Eye
Knee
Skeletal
X-Rays
MRI
Eye Examination

Thyroid Tests
Eye Examination
Skin Evaluation
Blood Analysis
Electrocardiograph (ECG - measures rate and rhythm)
Hip and Elbow X-rays

Energy

How do the energy levels of Italian Greyhounds and Sheltie Inus compare?

4 / 5

Italian Greyhounds' high energy levels make them unsuitable for a low-key dog, choose accordingly.

3 / 5

Sheltie Inus are suitable for those with a balanced lifestyle as they have an average energy level.

Social Needs

Italian Greyhound vs Sheltie Inu social needs comparison

3 / 5

Italian Greyhound has average social needs and is less independent than other breeds.

4 / 5

Sheltie Inu has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

Exercise Needed

Italian Greyhound vs Sheltie Inu exercise need comparison.

3 / 5

Italian Greyhounds need moderate physical activity and are great for families and active individuals.

2 / 5

Sheltie Inus need only a small amount of physical activity, ideal for busy or elderly people or those with limited space.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Italian Greyhound or Sheltie Inu?

2 / 5

Italian Greyhound and Sheltie Inu dogs tend to sleep less than some other breeds, but it's still important for them to get adequate sleep in order to maintain good health.

Tendency to Bark

Do Italian Greyhounds or Sheltie Inus bark more/less frequently?

3 / 5

Italian Greyhounds bark moderately when necessary and may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.

2 / 5

Sheltie Inu dogs are generally less vocal than other breeds and only bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner or communicate.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Italian Greyhound vs Sheltie Inu?

4 / 5

3 / 5

Roaming urge

Italian Greyhound vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

3 / 5

Prey Drive

Italian Greyhound or Sheltie Inu - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

5 / 5

3 / 5

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Italian Greyhound and Sheltie Inu entertained?

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

Catch treats, Tug-of-war, Catch, Hiking, Squeaky Toys

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Italian Greyhounds or Sheltie Inus?

Both Italian Greyhound and Sheltie Inu are medium-energy dogs that enjoy socializing and playing with other dogs. They may engage in casual or sustained games of chase, and occasionally have bursts of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

3 / 5

2 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should Italian Greyhound or Sheltie Inu walk each week?

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.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Sheltie Inu, it's at least 14 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Italian Greyhounds or Sheltie Inus require more exercise?

Both Italian Greyhound and Sheltie Inu typically require a minimum of 60 minutes of exercise each day. The exercise can be spread throughout the day and may involve high-energy activities like walking, running, and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Italian Greyhounds or Sheltie Inus?

1 / 5

The Italian Greyhound is a low-maintenance breed that doesn't require much grooming.

4 / 5

Sheltie Inus require significant grooming, including regular trims and professional grooming assistance to maintain their coat. They may also require frequent bathing to keep their coat and skin healthy.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Italian Greyhound and Sheltie Inu dogs?

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

Ideally, Sheltie Inu should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) improve shedding.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Italian Greyhounds and Sheltie Inus?

Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Comb
Scissors
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Italian Greyhound or Sheltie Inu in cups?

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.

For an average 17-24 pound (8 - 11 kg) Sheltie Inu feed 1 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Italian Greyhound or Sheltie Inu?

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

The average cost of a Sheltie Inu is somewhere $1.30 - $1.40 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Italian Greyhound or Sheltie Inu?

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 average per month expenses of a Sheltie Inu is between $35 - $42. This makes an average of $420 - $504 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.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Italian Greyhounds vs Sheltie Inus

2 / 5

Italian Greyhound has below average obedience intelligence, but they excel in understanding human emotions.

3 / 5

Sheltie Inus are average in obedience intelligence but have a high IQ and may cause trouble if left unsupervised.

Sensitivity Level

How do Italian Greyhound and Sheltie Inu compare in sensitivity?

5 / 5

This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.

4 / 5

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Italian Greyhound vs Sheltie Inu?

5 / 5

3 / 5

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Italian Greyhound or Sheltie Inu?

3 / 5

Italian Greyhounds are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

4 / 5

The Sheltie Inu is a great apartment dog, thriving with sufficient exercise and time outside as part of their daily routine.

Child Friendly

Do Italian Greyhounds or Sheltie Inus have a friendlier temperament towards children?

1 / 5

Italian Greyhounds are not suitable for children.

4 / 5

Sheltie Inus are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Italian Greyhound or Sheltie Inu?

1 / 5

4 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do Italian Greyhound or Sheltie Inu breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

3 / 5

Italian Greyhounds are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.

4 / 5

Sheltie Inus are good with cats, but early training is needed to prevent chasing behavior.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Italian Greyhound or Sheltie Inu?

3 / 5

Italian Greyhounds are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.

4 / 5

Sheltie Inus are friendly and active companions, and can be good family pets, though their friendliness towards other dogs may vary.

Pet friendly

How do Italian Greyhound or Sheltie Inu dogs interact with other pets?

3 / 5

4 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Italian Greyhound or Sheltie Inu?

3 / 5

Italian Greyhounds are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

2 / 5

Sheltie Inus are quick to announce strangers and can be standoffish or suspicious.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Italian Greyhound and Sheltie Inu?

3 / 5

Italian Greyhound and Sheltie Inu have an average level of playfulness. Like other dogs, they enjoy playing, but they are not the most playful dog breed.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Italian Greyhounds and Sheltie Inus compare?

3 / 5

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