Physical attributes
- Height: ranges from 30cm / 12 inches up to 38cm / 15 inches.
- Weight: ranges from 3kg / 6lbs up to 5kg / 10lbs.
- Typical fur colours: various colors.
- Eye colour: brown.
- Size category: small.
Health attributes
- Common health problems: dental problems, leg fractures and eye problems.
- Usual longevity: 12 to 15 years.
- Hypoallergenic? No.
Italian Greyhound breed behavioural traits
- Character traits of a Italian Greyhound: The Italian Greyhound usually exhibits character traits that include sensitive, alert, playful and intelligent.
- Italian Greyhound obey scale: In percentage terms, the Italian Greyhound typically scores around 30% on the obey scale.
- Trick repetitions required: In terms of how many times the Italian Greyhound needs to learn new tricks, expect between 41 and 80 repetitions before they pick things up.
- Intelligence category: The Italian Greyhound sites in the fair category when it comes to intelligence.
- Suitability for children: If you have kids, it’s worth knowing that the Italian Greyhound is not very suitable for children.
Italian Greyhound: A Fascinating Background and Rich History
The elegant Italian Greyhound has graced the halls of nobility and homes of commoners alike for centuries. These delightful toy dogs originated in Italy during the Renaissance period, where they quickly became cherished companions among Italian aristocrats. Despite their small stature, they’re actually miniature versions of their larger Greyhound cousins, packing all the grace and athleticism into a more compact frame.
Originally bred for hunting small game and catching rats, these swift little dogs soon found themselves in a much cushier role. They became treasured lap dogs in the courts of European nobility, with their popularity spreading from Italy throughout the continent. Famous figures like Catherine the Great of Russia and Queen Victoria of England couldn’t resist their charm, helping to establish the breed’s reputation as a sophisticated companion.
While they’re classified as toy dogs today, don’t let their size fool you. Italian Greyhounds are fairly intelligent and obedient pets who’ve managed to adapt wonderfully to modern living. They’re quick learners and respond well to positive reinforcement training, though they can sometimes be a bit stubborn – a trait that’s often forgiven due to their endearing personality and loving nature.
These graceful pups have certainly come a long way from their Italian roots. While they’re no longer chasing rodents through Renaissance palaces, they’ve maintained their athletic ability and keen instincts. Today’s Italian Greyhounds excel in agility sports and make wonderful family companions, proving that good things really do come in small packages. Their evolution from skilled hunters to beloved household pets showcases their remarkable adaptability through the ages.
Living with an Italian Greyhound Today
Modern Italian Greyhounds have retained many of their ancestral traits while developing into perfect apartment-friendly companions. They’re sensitive souls who form deep bonds with their families, and they’ll often be found snuggling under blankets or seeking out the warmest spot in the house. Despite their delicate appearance, they’re surprisingly spry and enjoy short bursts of energetic play, much like their hunting ancestors.
Typical costs for buying and owning a Italian Greyhound
- Typical purchase price: £632. (Ranges from £395 to £95).
- Expected lifetime cost: £13,006.
- Food costs per year: £220.