The Italian Greyhound is an elegant companion breed. They are sensitive to cold weather and require minimal grooming. The breed is a long-time favorite of Italian aristocracy.

Physical Characteristics

• Slender, fine-boned
• Coat: Smooth, short hair
• Long head gradually dissipates into a pointed muzzle
• Dark nose
• Small, high-set ears
• Long, elegant neck
• Tail straight and low-set; ends in a slight curve
• Height: 13-15 inches
• Weight: 7-8 pound
• Average Lifespan: 12-14 years

Temperament

• Submissive, affectionate, playful, smart, mischievous, curious
• Interaction with people: Good companion dog; wary of strangers
• Interaction with animals: Good with other pets
• Training: Housebreaking can be difficult

At Home

• OK for apartments
• Needs long, daily walks
• Somewhat active indoors
• Enjoys playing in open spaces with other Italian Greyhounds; play with other large dogs is not recommended
• Feed crunchy dog biscuits to keep teeth and gums healthy
• Very fast and agile

Grooming

• Minimal shedder
• Rub with towel or chamois
• Brush teeth often and trim toenails

Brief History

• Native to Italy
• One of the first breeds bred in ancient times as strictly a companion pet
• First recorded more than 2,000 years ago in stone carvings and on pottery found in the Mediterranean
• Depicted in ancient Mediterranean art

Fido's Facts

• Historically a companion to the aristocracy of the Roman Empire, Europe and Egypt
• Frequently depicted in Renaissance paintings by such artists including Giotto, Carpaccio, Memling, Van der Weyden, David and Bosch
• A popular breed with European royalty in the 16th century
• Smallest of sight hounds