Italian Greyhound Dog Pictures, Photos, Italian Greyhound Training

Appearance

• Italian Greyhounds are known to be the smallest of the sight hounds.


• These small dogs stand roughly 13 to 15 inches at the withers.


• They normally weigh between 8 and 18 pounds.


• Due to their weight, this breed is considered a part of the “toy group”.


• These small dogs are quite slender in the body and legs. They tend to resemble the look of a miniature Greyhound.


• They are also quite agile and athletic. This small dog has been known to reach speeds of up to 25 miles per hour.


• They have a short haired coat and can be found in nearly every type of color. Some have markings in different pattern variations.

Temperament

• These dogs are wonderful companions.


• They are affection and loving.


• These small dogs enjoy the company of humans and generally become quite attached to their masters and immediate families.


• They are great with children as well. Keep in mind however, that this breed is rather fragile and cannot withstand a lot of roughhousing.


• This small dog is also quite intelligent.


• They tend to bark at unfamiliar noises. Hence, they are decent watch dogs.


• This breed will normally get along with other dogs and other household pets.

Living Standards

• This breed enjoys both indoor and outdoor activities.


• Therefore, they will be okay with apartment living.


• If you live in a house, a small to medium size yard will suffice.


• Keep in mind that these dogs do not do well in cold temperatures. In fact, it is common for these dogs to wear sweaters or shirts.

Exercise

• Due to their active nature, this breed will defiantly need a daily walk.


• They should also be given a chance to run in a safe open area.


• You can jog with your this dog as well.


• This breed is quite playful. Thus, be sure to provide this dog with dog toys and bones to chew.

Litter Size

• This breed will typically have between 3 and 5 pups per litter.

Health and Life Expectancy

• This small dog breed is generally healthy.


• Certain health issues related to these dogs include:


1. Von Williebrand’s Disease
2. Progressive Retinal Atrophy
3. Legg-Perthes Disease
4. Epilepsy
5. Hypothyroidism
6. Cataracts
7. Luxating Patella
8. Color dilution alopecia
9. Periodontal disease
10. Immune Mediated Hemolytic Anemia


• The life expectancy of this breed is normally between 12 and 15 years of age.

Italian Greyhound Training

• These small dogs are not too difficult to train.


• As mentioned before, they are quite intelligent and eager to please.


• Keep in mind however, that this breed does not respond well to harsh discipline.


• Be patient and persistent with your dog. In addition, show positive reinforcement when they do a good job. This breed will react well to this approach.


• For the best results, it is recommended to begin training this breed when they are pups.


• Remember that any small dog breed can develop small dog syndrome if not properly trained.

Grooming

• This breed is one of the least difficult to groom.


• Simply wipe their coat of using a towel. Some people even use chamois leather in order to keep the coat shiny.


• Bathe your Italian Greyhound only when necessary and be sure to dry them immediately afterward.


• It is recommended that you trim the nails of these small dogs on a regular basis.

History

• These dogs are believed to be one of the oldest breeds.


• Evidence of these breed has been discovered as far back as Egyptian times.


• These dogs also became quite popular during the Italian Renaissance.


• During the 16th century, this breed was preferred by European nobility.


• This is one of the first breeds to be bred as a companion dog.


• The AKC first recognized this breed in 1886.

Italian Greyhound Dog Pictures, Photos & Videos