Italian Greyhound

The Italian Greyhound is a miniature sighthound — a tiny, fine-boned dog with a greyhound's outline, bred over centuries chiefly as a companion.

History

It is an old breed, a favourite of Mediterranean and later Renaissance nobility, appearing at the feet of aristocrats in centuries of paintings. It kept the sighthound's shape and speed while being bred down to the size of a lapdog.

Temperament

The breed is known for being affectionate, sensitive and playful, bonding closely with its people and often timid with strangers or noise. It is gentle and devoted, and craves warmth and company.

Care and training

It enjoys a good sprint in a safe space but is genuinely fragile — thin leg bones fracture easily, especially in boisterous youngsters that leap from furniture. The short coat is easy but offers no warmth, so it feels the cold and needs a layer; housetraining takes patience.

Health

Known tendencies include leg fractures from the delicate bones, dental disease from crowded teeth, and patellar luxation. These are patterns for the breed rather than a verdict on one dog; the measured facts are in the panel.