The Italian Greyhound, often called the “IG” or “Iggy,” is a graceful and affectionate toy breed with a history that dates back thousands of years. Known for their slender build, sleek coats, and playful personalities, these dogs make excellent companions for those who appreciate a loving and elegant pet.
They are highly adaptable and thrive in various living environments, from apartments to spacious homes. Their gentle nature makes them great for companionship, but they do require patience and proper training. Despite their delicate appearance, they have bursts of energy and love engaging in short sprints or playful antics.
Italian Greyhound Quick Facts
| Trait | Details |
| Breed Purpose | Companion dog |
| Size | Toy to Small |
| Height | 13 to 15 inches (33 to 38 cm) |
| Weight | 7 to 14 pounds (3 to 6 kg) |
| Lifespan | 14 to 15 years |
| Coat Type | Short, smooth coat |
| Colors | Wide variety, including fawn, blue, black, cream, red, and white |
| Temperament | Affectionate, energetic, playful |
| Exercise Level | Moderate |
| Exercise Needs | 1 hour daily |
| Shedding | Low |
| Average Price | $1,200 to $3,000 |
| Trainability | Intelligent but can be stubborn |
| Best For | Singles, families, apartment dwellers |
Origins and History
The Italian Greyhound is an ancient breed with a history dating back over 2,000 years. Originating in the Mediterranean region, these dogs were cherished by nobility in Greece, Rome, and later in Renaissance Italy. Their statuesque beauty and affectionate nature made them a favorite among aristocrats, and they frequently appeared in paintings alongside royals.
Brought to Europe during the Renaissance, Italian Greyhounds became particularly popular in Italy, where they earned their name. They were later introduced to England and the United States, gaining recognition for their elegance and loving temperament.
What Does an Italian Greyhound Look Like?
Italian Greyhounds are known for their sleek, refined bodies. They have long, slender legs, a deep chest, and a narrow waist, giving them a distinctive sighthound appearance. Their heads are elongated, with a delicate snout and expressive, dark eyes.
Their movement is graceful, resembling that of larger Greyhounds, but in a smaller, more delicate package. Despite their fragile look, they are quite athletic and love to run and play. They are known for their bursts of speed, often sprinting in short, playful zoomies. Their agility allows them to excel in dog sports such as lure coursing and agility training.
Coat Colors and Size of an Italian Greyhound
Italian Greyhounds come in a variety of colors. They have a naturally sleek, smooth, glossy coat that adds to their elegant appearance. Some shades may have subtle variations depending on lighting and genetics. Their unique color combinations make each Italian Greyhound truly one of a kind. The colors include:
- Solid shades: Fawn, blue, black, cream, red
- Parti-colors: White with patches of any of the solid shades
- Rare colors: Chocolate, sable, and brindle (though less common)
They are toy-to-small dogs. They stand between 13-15 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 7-14 pounds, making them a small but agile breed.
Do they Make Good Family Pets?
Italian Greyhounds can make wonderful family pets, but they do best in homes where they receive plenty of attention and gentle handling. Their affectionate nature allows them to bond closely with their owners, often seeking companionship and warmth.
They get along well with children, but due to their delicate bones, they are better suited for families with older kids who understand how to interact with small dogs. Socialization from an early age helps them feel comfortable around other pets and people. While they thrive in loving environments, they may develop separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods.
Temperament and Personality
Italian greyhounds are affectionate and loving and thrive on companionship. They form strong bonds with their owners and often seek constant attention. They are playful and energetic but also enjoy curling up on a cozy lap for hours. Their sensitive nature means they can become anxious when left alone for too long, making them best suited for owners who can provide frequent companionship.
While they are intelligent, they can be sensitive and sometimes stubborn, making consistent and positive reinforcement training crucial. They are social dogs that typically get along well with other pets and children, though their delicate frame makes them less suitable for rough play.
Exercise Needs of an Italian Greyhound
Despite their small size, Italian Greyhounds are active dogs that require 1 hour of daily exercise. Short walks, play sessions, and occasional sprinting opportunities help keep them happy and healthy. They enjoy chasing toys and playing with other dogs but should always be kept in a secure area due to their tendency to sprint off after small animals.
Because of their thin skin and lack of body fat, they are sensitive to extreme temperatures, so exercise should be adjusted accordingly. Providing them with a soft, warm place to rest after activity is essential for their comfort and well-being. Feeding them Best Dog Foods For Active Dogs can support their nutritional needs.
Training Your Italian Greyhounds
Italian Greyhounds are intelligent but can be independent, making training a challenge at times. They respond best to gentle, positive reinforcement techniques. Harsh corrections can make them timid, so patience and rewards-based training work best.
Early socialization is crucial to help them become well-adjusted adults. Exposure to different environments, sounds, and people will help them develop confidence and prevent shyness or anxiety. Regular interaction with other dogs and humans can also help them become more adaptable in different situations.
Puppy training classes are a great way to introduce structured learning and social engagement. Taking them on car rides and walks in busy areas and meeting new people will further enhance their ability to handle various environments with ease.
Grooming and Maintenance of an Italian Greyhound
Italian Greyhounds have a short, fine coat that requires minimal grooming. Weekly brushing with a soft brush helps remove loose hair and keeps their coat shiny. Since they have little body fat and short hair, they are prone to feeling cold, so they may need sweaters or coats in cooler weather.
Dental care is particularly important for this breed, as they are prone to dental disease. Regular brushing and vet checkups help maintain their oral health. Additionally, their nails should be trimmed regularly to prevent discomfort or mobility issues. Their ears should also be checked and cleaned to prevent infections, as wax buildup can lead to irritation. Bathing is rarely needed due to their short coats, but occasional wiping with a damp cloth can help keep their skin clean and free from dirt.
Health Challenges Italian Greyhounds Suffer
Like all breeds, Italian Greyhounds have some health concerns, including:
- Leg fractures – Due to their fine bone structure, they are prone to breaking legs if they jump from high places or run on slippery surfaces.
- Dental issues – Regular dental care is essential to prevent gum disease and tooth loss.
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) – A genetic condition that can lead to blindness.
- Hypothyroidism – A thyroid disorder that can affect metabolism and overall health.
Routine vet visits and a healthy diet can help manage and prevent many of these conditions.
How Much Do Italian Greyhound Puppies Cost?
The cost of an Italian Greyhound puppy can vary depending on factors such as breeder reputation, lineage, location, and coat color. On average, these puppies can range from $1,200 to $3,000 when purchased from a reputable breeder. Show-quality Italian Greyhounds with champion bloodlines may cost significantly more, sometimes exceeding $5,000.
Adoption is another option, with rescue organizations charging fees between $200 and $600, which typically covers vaccinations and spaying/neutering. Prospective owners should also budget for initial supplies, veterinary care, and ongoing expenses to ensure their new pet has a happy and healthy life.
Italian Greyhound Breeders
Finding a reputable breeder is essential when looking for a healthy and well-socialized Italian Greyhound puppy. Responsible breeders prioritize health, temperament, and proper genetic testing to ensure their puppies are free from common hereditary issues.
It’s important to visit the breeder’s facility, ask about health clearances, and see the puppy’s parents to get a sense of their lineage and personality. Avoid puppy mills or backyard breeders who prioritize profit over the well-being of the dogs. Ethical breeders provide lifelong support and guidance to new owners, helping ensure a smooth transition for the puppy into its new home. Additionally, many reputable breeders are affiliated with breed clubs and follow strict ethical breeding standards to maintain the integrity of the Italian Greyhound lineage.
Italian Greyhound Mixes
Italian Greyhound mixes combine the elegance and playfulness of the IG with traits from other breeds, resulting in unique variations of this beloved companion. Some common mixes include the Italian Greyhuahua (Italian Greyhound and Chihuahua), which blends the IG’s slender frame with the feisty nature of the Chihuahua. Another popular mix is the Italian Greydoodle (Italian Greyhound and Poodle), offering a hypoallergenic coat with the IG’s affectionate personality.
These mixes can vary in size, temperament, and coat type, depending on the other breed involved. Some mixes may inherit the IG’s delicate bone structure, making them prone to injuries, while others may be more robust. Owners considering an IG mix should research the traits of both parent breeds to ensure the right fit for their lifestyle. Like purebred Italian Greyhounds, these mixes thrive in loving homes with patient owners who can cater to their needs.
Where to Find an Italian Greyhound
If you’re considering bringing an Italian Greyhound into your home, you have several options:
- Reputable Breeders – Look for breeders who prioritize health and temperament over appearance.
- Rescue Groups – Many Italian Greyhounds end up in rescues due to their specific care needs. Groups like the Italian Greyhound Rescue Foundation specialize in finding homes for these dogs.
- Shelters – Occasionally, IGs can be found in local shelters, so checking with animal rescues is always a good idea.
Is an Italian Greyhound Right for You?
Italian Greyhounds are a great choice for those looking for a loving, elegant, and playful companion. They thrive in homes where they get plenty of attention and are best suited for individuals or families who can provide daily care and companionship.
They are excellent for apartment living due to their small size and minimal barking but require protection from cold weather and a secure environment to prevent injuries.