Italian Greyhound
Weight
7-14 lbs
Height
13-15 inches
Lifespan
14-15 years
Origin
Italy
Temperament
The Italian Greyhound is a miniature sighthound known for elegance and affection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Italian Greyhound
Are Italian Greyhounds good apartment dogs?
Yes, Italian Greyhounds are excellent apartment dogs. They are small, quiet, and love lounging. They are called miniature couch potatoes due to their love of comfort.
Do Italian Greyhounds bark a lot?
Italian Greyhounds are generally quiet dogs. They may bark to alert but are not excessive barkers. They are among the quieter small breeds.
Are Italian Greyhounds easy to potty train?
Italian Greyhounds are notoriously difficult to house train. Their small bladders, cold sensitivity, and dislike of going outside in bad weather make potty training challenging.
How much exercise does an Italian Greyhound need?
Italian Greyhounds need 30-45 minutes of exercise daily with opportunities to run. They enjoy short sprints in secure areas followed by lounging.
What health problems do Italian Greyhounds have?
Common issues include broken legs (very fragile bones), dental problems, patellar luxation, epilepsy, and progressive retinal atrophy. Their thin legs break easily.
How long do Italian Greyhounds live?
Italian Greyhounds typically live 14-15 years. They are long-lived dogs with many reaching their late teens.
Do Italian Greyhounds shed?
Italian Greyhounds shed minimally. Their short, fine coat produces very little loose hair. They are one of the lower-shedding breeds.
Are Italian Greyhounds good with children?
Italian Greyhounds are fragile and can be injured by rough handling. They are best with older, gentle children or adults-only households.
Do Italian Greyhounds need sweaters?
Yes, Italian Greyhounds absolutely need clothing in cold weather. Their thin skin, lean body, and minimal coat mean they get cold very easily. Coats and indoor clothing are essential.
How big do Italian Greyhounds get?
Italian Greyhounds weigh 7-14 pounds and stand 13-15 inches tall. They are the smallest of the sighthound family.
Can Italian Greyhounds be off-leash?
Italian Greyhounds should never be off-leash in unfenced areas. Their prey drive is strong and they will chase at high speeds.
Are Italian Greyhounds good with cats?
Some Italian Greyhounds live peacefully with cats while others have strong prey drive. Careful introductions and supervision are needed.
Why do Italian Greyhounds shake?
Italian Greyhounds shake due to cold (very common), excitement, anxiety, or stress. Their thin bodies lose heat quickly. Keeping them warm reduces shaking.
Are Italian Greyhounds hypoallergenic?
Italian Greyhounds produce less dander and shed minimally, making them better for some allergy sufferers. However, no dog is 100% hypoallergenic.
Are Italian Greyhounds good for first-time owners?
Italian Greyhounds can be challenging for first-time owners due to house training difficulties and fragility. Patient first-timers can succeed with research.