Although often refer to as a " miniature Greyhound , " this breed is actually formally distinguish as the Italian Greyhound . It is the smallest appendage of the sighthound ’s group that includes the Whippet , Greyhound , Saluki , and Russian wolfhound , just to mention a few . check some interesting facts about this very refined breed .
Origin and History
TheItalian Greyhoundis an ancient stock that has been around for more than 2,000 years . There have been artifact find out in modern - sidereal day Greece and Turkey resemble the clay of small Greyhound breeds . scientist are incertain of their original purpose , but theorize they may have been small - game Hunter in accession to household companion .
They feel their way to Italy in the Middle Ages , which is why they are known as Italian Greyhounds today . you’re able to see them in paintings by famous artist , include Giotto di Bondone and Pisanello .
American breeders began to fall in love with the breed in the mid-1800s . The American Kennel Club register the first of the breed in 1886 .
Breed Characteristics
Italian Greyhounds are a type of sighthound that was likely bred to work with hunters . Like most sighthounds , they can be sensitive and timid in new spot , but once they know you , they will be loyal and affectionate companions .
Appearance
A rather fine - boned , ticklish pawl , the Italian Greyhound stands around 15 inch in high spirits at the shoulder and only librate between 8 and 12 Irish pound . This gives the creature its skimpy , refined look .
The AKC acceptable colors let in :
livid markings on the look , chest , and foot , as well as blue or black masque , are satisfactory .
No dog is 100 percenthypoallergenic , but for allergy sufferers , the Italian Greyhound is a good choice . They shed minimally and do not have an undercoat . Some owners may claim they do not drop at all , but it ’s probable because their hair is so small and fine that it ’s hard to notice it even when they are disgorge .
Temperament
The Italian Greyhound is by nature a rather quiet and shy fauna . Like most sighthounds , they can be sensitive and timid in newfangled situations , but once they acknowledge you , they will be loyal and affectionate companion . These dogs be given to do well with their straightaway menage / pack members , but they are wary of unknown . It ’s significant to socialize them well as puppies to reduce this propensity so they are n’t too uneasy about veteran trips , spending metre with the pet sitter , or meeting other dogs and citizenry at the parking lot .
Due to their frail nature , they are n’t recommended in homes with untested children . Their disposition and personality , as well as their size , best suit a home with older children or grownup . They do best in homes with another Italian Greyhound to spend time with as they incline to become queasy and developseparation anxietywithout their trust amount of care . Every appendage of the strain is different , and some may call for more attention than others , but if you will be out for any amount of time , get two may be a good idea .
Training
The Italian Greyhound , like other breed , is antiphonal topositive reenforcement breeding . Using reinforcement , praise , and delicacy will go a long elbow room . If you employ these method , obedience preparation should n’t be an issue .
Housetraining , on the other hand , can be difficult with the Italian Greyhound . Like other diminished breeds , they have a hard time holding it until it ’s time to go potty . You may never be completely successful housetraining this breed and may need a grass square or smitten lodgings . Most dog buff are unable to handle this and give up on their Italian Greyhound , which is why many cease up in tax shelter organizations .
When they ’re puppies , Italian Greyhounds call for early socialising , which includes pic to a variety of people , sights , noises , and experiences . This will aid them in their journeying of becoming well - assault adult dogs .
Exercise Requirements
Although these are toy dog dogs , call up their sporting heritage . These miniature greyhound do call for regular utilization to keep them physically healthy and , perhaps more importantly , mentally fit . A world-weary Greyhound can becomeoverly anxiousand psychoneurotic . It should also be remark that it ’s best to keep your pet on a three in public places because they are apt to run uncontrollably if left to their own twist . This is a innate trait of virtually any sighthound , and it can conduct to loss , wound , and even decease .
Health
The Italian Greyhound is susceptible to insensate , wet weather due to their very short coats , so provide a sweater as needed . Other wellness concern include :
Lifespan
On average , these dogs can live about 15 year , with some members of the breed go a little longer .
Grooming
preparation is a breeze for this breed . The coat is very short , so you principally need to brush your pet with a diffuse bristle thicket to off a little escaped hair . you could also use a chamois for the same intent , and it will add a nice shine to the coat . These dogs do drop , but because their fuzz is short , their shedding will never seem overweening . washup is rarely called for , and you could opt for a traditional bath or utilize preferred rub to get the line done . The nails should be trimmed on a bi - weekly groundwork .
Fun Facts About the Breed
The Italian Greyhound is an interesting slight stock . Some sport facts let in :
Purchasing or Adopting an Italian Greyhound
If you decide to purchase an Italian Greyhound puppy , you should expect to pay as fiddling as $ 500 and as high as $ 1,200 . Show - quality puppies will cost even more . To obtain a breeder , start with theItalian Greyhound Club of America , which number stock breeder from around the nation .
Rescue Organizations
If you prefer to rescue , theItalian Greyhound Rescue Foundation ( IGRF)has listings of dogs in the U.S. that need homes . you may also search websites like PetFinder and Save - a - delivery or middleman strain - specific organizations , including :
Is this the Breed for You?
The Italian Greyhound is a breed that needs regular exercising and stimulation in rescript to stay goodly . Without either of these , they can develop anxiety and depression . In ordering to keep your pet happy and in tip - top shape , you need to be fain to pass time with them . If you ’re depend for a breed that is autonomous , this may not be the breed for you . On the other handwriting , if you ’re searching for a strain that will be a loving companion and you ’re ready to take tutelage of their needs , start taking the steps necessary to convey one home .
