Italian Greyhound

Italian Greyhound, Piccolo Levriero Italiano

The Italian Greyhound is a miniature sighthound, elegant, sensitive and strongly attached to its owner.

Rating

Breed characteristics

Activity 7/10
Trainability 6/10
Good with children 6/10
Shedding 2/10
Guarding 2/10
Care 4/10
Description

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

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

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.