ITALIAN GREYHOUND Breed Standards
Quite clearly a miniaturized Greyhound, the Italian Greyhound is believed to have originated some time around the 1st century BC in and around the Mediterranean; Greek and Turkish art from this time depicts the breed. The Italian Greyhound spread from its native Italy, and by medieval times the dog could be found throughout southern Europe. The breed became known as the Italian Greyhound during the 16th century and arrived in England during the 17th century, where it was an immediate hit with the aristocracy both as a lapdog and courser.
The Italian Greyhound was at the peak of its popularity during the Victorian period, and was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1886. But the dog went into a swift decline during the early 20th century, and by the end of World War II it was virtually unknown in England. Irresponsible breeding that sought to accentuate the dog’s small size without sufficient regard for its health played a large role in the Italian Greyhound’s fall from grace in England. Luckily the specimens brought to America during the 19th century were untainted, and these dogs served to rejuvenate the breed during the mid 20th century. Today, the Italian Greyhound is one of the more popular breeds in the US.
SKILLS: The Italian Greyhound is the smallest in the family of gazehounds (dogs that hunt by sight). The breed is very old and is believed to have originated over 2,000 years ago in the countries which are now Greece and Turkey. The Italian Greyhound is a very healthy breed, despite his fragile appearance. The Italian Greyhound is the only odorless breed. Although the Italian Greyhound is light on his feet, and is fast for short distances.
SIZE: Height: 12-15 inches (30-38 cm.) Weight: 6-10 pounds (3-5 kg.) There are two weight varieties: 8 pounds (4 kg.) maximum, and over 8 pounds (4 kg.).
COAT: He sheds very little, has a silky, almost velvety coat. The I.G. would be a good breed for people who are allergic to the hair of other breeds. His coat may be all shades of fawn, cream, red, blue, or sometimes even black. It may be either solid or with various degrees of white markings.
CARE REQUIRED: The Italian Greyhound is one of the easiest dogs to groom. All that is needed to keep the fine, silky coat gleaming is a rubdown with a piece of toweling or chamois. Only bathe when absolutely necessary. After bathing make sure the dogs is thoroughly dry and warm. The teeth should be brushed regularly to keep tarter from building up, and the toenails should be kept trimmed. This breed sheds little to no hair.
CHARACTER: Italian Greyhounds are very much "people dogs". They are bright, imaginative, full of fun and spirit, and are passionately devoted to their humans. Italian Greyhound's have an affectionate disposition, and love it best when his owners return his affection. He is alert, sensitive, and very intelligent and is very playful until well into adulthood. The Italian Greyhound adapts quickly to most households, and gets along well with other pets and children. He always wants to please, and learns very quickly. He has done very well in obedience trials
TRAINING: Italian Greyhounds are active little dogs who enjoy a good walk and love to run free and play. Because Italian Greyhounds like to play by running and bumping into each other, play with groups of other Italian Greyhounds should always be supervised to prevent accidental injury. Play with other large dogs is not recommended. Italian Greyhounds may be a good jogging companion for short distances, but they do better as a walking companion.
SOCIAL BEHAVIOR: The Italian Greyhound is good for apartment life. They are fairly active indoors and will do okay without a yard. This breed is very sensitive to cold temperatures and should wear a sweater to go out in the cold weather.
EXERCISE: Ideal for a small house or an apartment, or even the country, the Italian Greyhound will fit into nearly every household. The hound in him makes him very happy when he has a place to run, or even accompanying his owner on a walk. He gets along with other animals, and will play with a much bigger breed not realizing he is much smaller than his buddy.
