Italian Greyhound
Italian Greyhound, Piccolo Levriero Italiano
The Italian Greyhound is a miniature sighthound, elegant, sensitive and strongly attached to its owner.
Breed characteristics
About the breed
The Italian Greyhound should be chosen not only by appearance but also by temperament, activity level, origin and grooming needs.
Breed history
The Italian Greyhound is an ancient decorative sighthound valued in Italy and European courts for elegance, speed and attachment to people.
Appearance and features
It is a very slender, dry and light dog with long legs, deep chest, thin skin and short smooth coat.
Temperament
The breed is gentle, sensitive, affectionate and often stays very close to its owner. It handles harshness poorly.
Training
Training must be soft, patient and safe. Recall, house training and calm alone time should be taught early.
Care and lifestyle
Coat care is easy, but the dog must be protected from cold, falls and rough play. Dental care is very important.
Health
Risks include fractures, patellar luxation, dental disease, epilepsy, retinal atrophy and allergies.
Best suited for
Best for careful owners who want a tender apartment companion and are ready to protect a fragile dog.
Temperament and behavior
The breed is gentle, sensitive, affectionate and often stays very close to its owner. It handles harshness poorly.
In family life the dog does best with clear rules, calm communication and early socialization.
Even friendly breeds need exercise, contact with the owner and regular training to remain comfortable companions.
Care and keeping
Coat care is easy, but the dog must be protected from cold, falls and rough play. Dental care is very important.
Daily routine
Keep a stable schedule for feeding, walks and rest, and monitor weight, ears, eyes, teeth, nails and paws.
Grooming
Brushing frequency depends on coat type. After active walks, check coat and skin for dirt, mats, ticks and irritation.