This Italian Greyhound is evidence that good things do come in tiny packaging. The tiny version of Greyhound is that they are cat-like and have super-fast speeds. They are, however, most comfortable cuddling with their pet’s owner on the sofa, particularly on a warm couch to snuggle in. But they’re also a very athletic breed. They were developed as hunters, and a large portion of them continue to perform hunter duties.
Italian Greyhounds are a lot easier for handling than their normal-sized counterparts due to their smaller sizes. They’re also fairly easy to groom and are friendly and warm in their disposition. However, they’re sensitive and vulnerable to anxiety over separation. Therefore, they should be in families that give them time and attention. It is essential that their family will be able to meet all their requirements.
Let’s take a look at all you must be aware of about the wonderful Italian Greyhound (IG or Iggy for short). If you are planning to bring the dogs home to be a part of your family it is essential to do your research and ensure you’re prepared to take care of your pet in the most effective way you can.
We’ve outlined the breed’s background, characteristics, temperament, and appearance, as well as everything you should be aware of when it comes to caring for them including common health issues to grooming. We’ll also explain how you can get an IG for your personal.
Breed The History
It is believed that the Italian Greyhound is the smallest of the sighthounds. They were created for helping hunters around up to seven thousand decades ago. They are, in fact, among the oldest breeds of dogs that are in existence. Although they are not named they have roots that are as old as the time of ancient Egypt and the mummified remains of dogs of the same breed were found in the tombs of the Pharaohs.
While they were great for the hunt for small-sized games but they were also designed to be used in friendship and fit enough to be in the royal family at the time. Additional evidence from archeological sources places them more in the present time, which is around two thousand years ago, which is where present-day Greece, as well as Turkey, are situated. It was at this time when there was Roman Empire held significant power over the area in the Mediterranean. Italian Greyhounds enjoyed a great deal of popularity in the region and remained popular for a long time following. They were the subject of artworks from the past in testimony to their elegance and beauty.
In the Middle Ages (from the 5th Century to the 15th Century CE), Italian Greyhounds gained a lot of fame across Southern Europe as well as Italy. They got the “Italian” portion of their names due to their popularity with the Italian nobility. It was very fashionable to own smaller variants of larger breeds of dogs at the time. These and similar miniature dogs were at the feet of the elite of society. They continued to roll as artists’ muses as they were featured everywhere from game cards to paintings and even illuminated manuscripts.
It is believed that in the 19th century There were attempts to reduce the Italian Greyhound even further by breeding the breed together with Toy Terriers from England. This damaged the breed, as it diminished their genetic pool. The diseases caused by frailer bodies made the lives of IGs difficult. In 1900 The Italian Greyhound Club was formed and set out to restore the breed to its original appearance. It was due to the efforts of conservationists from Iggy lovers across both the United States and Canada that the breed could thrive again because the populations in these areas weren’t declining in the same way as they had experienced in Europe.
It is believed that the American Kennel Club registered its first Italian Greyhound in the year 1886. It is now the 69th most-loved breed in America according to the AKC’s popularity survey for 2020. This breed may have progressed a lot from being indulged in the laps of nobility, but they enjoy a great reputation today.
Temperament
This tiny, toy-sized dog is happy and affectionate toward its owner. They have the desire to please and are therefore pleased to be with others. If you can teach early enough in their lives they’ll be content to obey your commands.
They are quite playful and playful However, they tend to be more relaxed and content. Making sure they have something to do in their home, such as spending time with their families or playing with toys is a great way to keep this breed in good spirits. This relaxed nature allows various people to look after them, even new dog owners.
They definitely have a fragile nature They are very sensitive, so make certain that you’re not rude towards them. They can be extremely timid when they’re nervous and require a calm and caring owner to take care of them. This kind of gentleness is what makes them great family members.
They are extremely sweet canines that love children as well as other pets in the family. But, children need to be old enough to know how to calmly handle dogs, and be calm enough not to frighten them.
But, as they’re hunter dogs, it might not be wise to keep small animals inside the home, such as rabbits and birds, since they might view these animals as threats. It is not a good idea for your Iggy to create fear when they chase them around the home.
Above all beyond that, beyond that, your Italian Greyhound is an exceptionally affectionate and affectionate dog that is at ease with family members. They require more attention than the majority of dogs and, as a result, could develop separation anxiety if they are left on their own for long enough.
Italian Greyhounds do an excellent job of alerting their families to the presence of new individuals within their vicinity. They possess sensitive senses and are alerted by several good barks if you are hosting guests. This makes them a great option for a guard dog. They’re very happy to meet strangers provided they don’t get too excited to greet the dog. They are generally obedient and do a great job at following instructions when given. Because of this, they’ve had success in therapy dogs and also in more sporting pursuits like lure coursing.
Size and Appearance
It is the Italian Greyhound is similar to the Greyhound however, it is slimmer. Because they are small dogs, there’s a very small difference in the size of males and females IG. Females and males are between 13 and 15 inches in height at the shoulder and weigh between 7 and fourteen pounds. The slim body allows rapid running speeds, considering the way aerodynamic their bodies are.
The head of an Italian Greyhound is long and narrow with a tapering nose. The muzzle is long and smooth, while the nose is dark, either black or brown depending on the color that the pet has. They have eyes that are medium-sized and are bright, dark, and smart. The AKC is not a breed that has light eyes. The ears are small, tossed back and folded. When they are alert, they are folded in a straight line towards the head.
The body is slim with an elongated back. The necks are gracefully arched and long and make ordinary dog collars difficult to wear. Thus, the use of a collar as well as a Martingale collar is suggested for these slim-necked puppies. Their shoulders are large and sloping, while their chests are wide and deep. Both hind legs and forelegs provide a large amount of strength when running. Forelegs are long and straight, having strong partners. The hindquarters of their legs are long and have muscular legs. The IG’s tail is thin and tapers towards a curved end that is sufficient to reach the hips of the hind legs.
Colors, Coats, and Colors
It is common for Italian Greyhounds to sport a fine coat with a short, curly hairline all over the body. The coat is smooth and thin and allows them to be groomed quickly. Because they are thin coats, they’re not suitable for temperatures that are colder since they freeze quickly. Make sure you make sure they’re warm as winter approaches. Despite their lack of coat thickness, they shed which is why they aren’t hypoallergenic.
AKC standard permits AKC standards to allow the Italian Greyhound to come in almost any color. This is in spite of brindle patterning in which dark flecks are visible on the coat of a tawny. Tan and black markings that suggest breeding with dogs of tan and black are also not permitted. Some of the colors the Italian Greyhound can come in include gray color, which is fawn silver, blue, black, and red. They also come in cream as well as white. It is possible to see any combinations of the above colors particularly when they are mixed with white.
Exercise
Despite being among the most efficient runners of all breeds of dogs Italian Greyhounds don’t have particularly energetic needs. They prefer to go out for walks at a slow pace, rather than undertaking anything strenuous. However, make sure you leave the “Iggy” is walking on a leash since they are able to quickly beat you. It is not a good idea to risk being lost therefore, make sure to practice leash walking with them as quickly as you can.
Your IG might be tiny but they’re still a strong desire to hunt. Because they’re prone to chase small animals they could encounter outdoors and the space, they play in is well-fenced. They can also be susceptible to wanderlust and you must ensure that they’re secure when spending time outdoors.
Also, offer them lots of things to have fun with to keep them busy when they’re home, and not doing other things. This will keep them physically and mentally stimulated to ensure they’re in good spirits. If you are able to satisfy these requirements then you can count on that your Italian Greyhound to be a suitable companion for apartments. They can be found in urban areas as well as more rural settings.
Living Requirements
Because of their thin coats, Italian Greyhounds don’t take to cold weather well. In winter it is important to provide your pet a well-fitting jacket or sweater so that they can be able to enjoy walks. Your home should be fitted with heaters so that your dog will not become cold. Dogs prefer more warm temperatures however, you must offer plenty of shade and water during the summertime. Keep them inside with a fan or air conditioning system to keep them cool during hot summer days.
Training
Training Italian Greyhounds is likely to be relatively simple. However, it is important to take the necessary steps to be gentle with the dogs during their training. If you experience any resistance from your pet, try your best to lead your dog with patience, yet with determination and confidence. In establishing your position as the dog’s leader, you will make them realize that you are a person to be respected and valued. It is recommended that you start obedience training as early as the moment they arrive back home from school for the first time.
Training the dog is much easier when you have an excellent rapport with them before you begin. The most effective way to do this is to incorporate lots of positive reinforcement into your interactions with them. This will yield amazing results, provided that you reward them with pets or treats. Positive reinforcement can do wonders to keep your dog focused during training, even if it’s difficult.
Once you’ve established the relationship necessary to succeed and your obedience training is done, you can begin to learn more advanced techniques. Your Italian Greyhound is particularly skilled at agility competitions and lures courses It’s an excellent idea to give them a go as well.
It’s crucial to bond with this tiny sighthound as they’re susceptible to being anxious when they meet new people. Similar to the training for obedience, socialization should start as soon as you return home for the first time. Inviting them to meet different animals, people locations, environments, and places at a rate suitable for them will be excellent for their development.
In case they’re not yet comfortable when it comes to others in the family It could be beneficial to spend a few weeks to gradually introduce them and to keep them separate in case of need. This is particularly true for Italian Greyhounds who have been adopted. It could be a great idea to place your dog in puppy kindergarten classes to show them to behave with other dogs. It will help boost their self-confidence and could result in fewer accidents when dealing with dogs living in the same home.
Health
The lifespan of IGs ranges between 12 and 15 years. If you take care of your pet’s overall health, you’ll be able to maximize your time with them. In many cases, you can even extend the time they spend with you.
Like all breeds of dogs, Italian Greyhounds are susceptible to getting sick. By taking proactive measures and taking the necessary steps, you can improve the health of your dog. It can also help you understand what to notify your vet when any signs of illness show up. We’ve listed three frequent illnesses that can impact your Iggy below.
Periodontal Disease
Italian Greyhounds can be susceptible to periodontal diseases because of the size of their mouths can be. The symptoms can range from gingivitis to loss of tooth structure. It is easy to spot periodontal diseases if your pet’s breath is bad or if gums that are swelling and red, and they bleed when brushing their teeth and eating. Even more serious gum recession, loose teeth tooth root exposure, missing teeth, and pus flowing from the gums are more obvious signs.
It is possible to stop periodontal disease from developing by cleaning your dog’s teeth often. You can also get them professionally cleaned to ensure that the plaque and tartar that is above as well below the gumline have been eliminated. The periodontal disease that goes beyond gingivitis isn’t curable however you can keep it from worsening with the proper steps.
Patellar Luxation
Patellar Luxation is a condition in which the knee cap of your dog is removed from its usual position within the groove of the thigh bone. This disease isn’t easy to recognize until it has advanced to the level of discomfort or pain for your pet. There are Italian Greyhounds showing hind leg lameness and trying to kick their legs in an effort to “pop” into the joint and return it to its normal position. It is important to treat this problem immediately since it could quickly progress to degenerative arthritis, which could be very painful for your pet. Your vet may recommend surgery to treat the issue, as the usual medical treatments might not be enough to ease the pain.
Bone Problems
Along with the kneecaps, little dogs also have tiny bones making it more difficult for them to break, particularly in the front leg. Puppy Iggies are more prone to injury, and you must be cautious even when falling off the couch or bed to ensure that they don’t injure themselves.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
The person with IG could be diagnosed with progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) later throughout their lives. If it occurs earlier, it’s known as “retinal dysplasia” in which retinal cells fail to develop as they should. PRA is a result of the degeneration of the retina. This may result in total or partial vision loss. Although it isn’t unpleasant, it is challenging for dogs to become used to the sight loss. The condition is not irreversible However, you should talk to your vet to determine ways you can treat the issue.
Nutrition
If you wish for the Italian Greyhound to be healthy throughout their lives it is essential to offer them a balanced diet. A healthy diet is the cornerstone of health and well-being in all living things and your Iggy is no different. You must provide your dog with the proper nutrition from small-breed pet food to build an overall healthy body and mind.
Puppyhood is the most crucial period of development for every dog’s life. As senior and adult age arrives, the importance of nutrition will shift to maintaining their body’s health and overall health. You should feed your dog a diet that is suitable for their age regardless of the stage of their lives they’re in.
It is a good idea to avoid food products that claim to be suitable for “all different stages of life”. Every stage of life is characterized by distinct requirements that cannot be covered by one dog food. Avoid foods that contain artificial ingredients as this could cause harm to the health of your dog.
The size of your dog’s meals will be influenced by a variety of variables, including size, age, and level of activity. Since sighthounds do not require a lot of exercises and aren’t sedentary, they won’t require as much food as the other breeds of their size. Of course, this depends on whether they are taking part in intense sports such as competition agility and lure coursing. The IG puppy will require a nutrient-rich diet to ensure they develop an ideal body. Their portions should vary as they get older.
As they grow older, dogs require more food portions however, the food may not be as calorific-dense as it was previously. Senior dogs consume fewer calories than adult dogs but will require plenty of protein in order to maintain their muscles. Your veterinarian can assist you to select the appropriate portion sizes, to ensure that you provide your dog with enough food that they need throughout their lifetime. If you feed your dog too much food could lead to weight gain which can open the way to many avoidable illnesses.
If you notice that your dog’s behavior has changed and you notice that it is picky which isn’t normal, you should deal with it immediately. Be more strict about the time they eat. Try to leave their food out in a 30-minute period. If they are not willing to eat it, take the food away until it’s time to eat the next meal. This can help your dog to understand that their food isn’t always available. This will give them an urgency that will motivate them to have their meal at the right time. You can also mix wet food items to dry kibbles for it to be more appealing for the animals.
Grooming
Although their hair isn’t long, however, it’s unfortunate that Italian Greyhounds shed lots of. This makes them not suitable for people with allergies. Since they shed a lot it is possible that you need to groom your dogs regularly to eliminate the fur that isn’t getting rid of. The most effective tool to use to do this will be the rubber curry brush. This is not too difficult due to the size of your dog and they will surely enjoy the massage it provides it, too.
There is no have to wash your IGs regularly. Only whenever they become dirty. If they do require bathing, you can use moderate shampoo and hot water. Because Italian Greyhounds don’t do well with cold weather and cold, it is essential that they are bathed in the water at a temperature that is comfortable for them. Rinse your dog thoroughly without leaving soap remnants behind. If not, it can cause irritation on the skin. Between baths, you can apply a moist cloth to wash all dirt and grime off.
Try to wash your pet’s ears on a regular basis, as it will help to avoid infection. You can clean away all the wax and dirt with a moistened cotton pad soaked in an ear cleanser provided by your veterinarian.
Because they do much moving around, nails can get worn down by themselves. If they don’t then it’s best to be sure to trim them at least every month. This can aid in preventing cracks, splitting, and injuries.
Finally, as dogs are susceptible to poor dental health Be sure to maintain the health of your pet’s teeth. Use a toothpaste and toothbrush specially designed for dogs and clean your dog’s mouth at least three times per week. This will help make their breath smell fresh and get rid of plaque and tartar.
Utilizing the basic commands for obeying can make bathing simpler, particularly for the fragile Italian Greyhound. Since bathing is meant to be a relaxing experience, ensure that you remain calm and gentle while grooming them. When you assist them, it will assist them to adjust to the environment, and anticipate future grooming sessions.
Costs of Breeders and Puppy Breeders
Affiliating your own Italian Greyhound from a reputable source is among the most effective ways to introduce this wonderful pet into your home. However, it is essential to be vigilant and do your homework since there are a lot of breeders who are not trustworthy. The breeders who are not trustworthy have set up puppy mills that only focus on making money. They don’t pay any into account the dog they raise. The dog is not provided with healthy air and food, or water. The majority of the dogs are maltreated. These disgusting, unsanitary facilities are not a good idea for business as they lack regard for dogs or puppies born on the premises.
There are also breeders who are extremely loyal and love their Instagram followers. It is evident If the breeder you choose to work with is excited regarding the dog breed and will encourage you to check out the place where puppies are kept. They’ll be housed in a room that is clean and comfortable and filled with a variety of toys for them to play with. Water and food can be easily available, and there’s ample fresh air.
Good breeders will be delighted to allow you to meet your puppy over the course of a couple of weeks prior to when they will be taken home. This will help you make a smooth transition to home life. They are happy to answer any questions you might have regarding the breed, and will also explain everything you should be aware of when raising of a puppy. They’ll also have completed the tests, deworming, and vaccinations that are required to get the good health certificate and will also provide the appropriate certificate.
If you’re looking to get the Italian Greyhound, and need help finding a reliable breeder There are numerous places you can search. It is possible to start by asking your vet to determine if they’ve any leads. You could also go to dog shows to gather more details, particularly from those who have their own favorite Iggies. It will also put you involved with the dog lovers in your area and will always be an excellent thing.
There are numerous online forums as well as social media websites on the internet that are full of people who could be able to assist you. Additionally, you can check out the AKC offers a great site for referrals from breeders. You can expect to be paying between $1,400 and $3000 for this coveted dog and show-quality dogs will cost more.
Shelters and Rescues
Although adopting a dog from a trusted breeder is an excellent idea We suggest that our readers take a look at adopting shelters instead of a breeder. You can find an Italian Greyhound among the dogs at a rescue center, so don’t let this discourage you from taking a look. The majority of dogs that are available for adoption have older or special requirements. This means they are more difficult to adjust as compared to other young, “normal” dogs. We suggest giving these dogs a second chance in life since they’ll need affection and love to live the life they deserve.
When you’re choosing an Italian Greyhound at the shelter Be sure to inquire with the staff about everything you’ll need to know about your dog because they are the ones who know exactly what they need to do to provide the best care for them. Knowing their personality and the best way to meet the attention they require can help in living a peaceful home life. This will enable you to ensure that your dog has the best life that is possible as there is no guesswork.
Keep in mind your Italian Greyhound is an extremely delicate dog. This is doubly so if they’re coming from shelters. Be kind to your pet and let them get acquainted with their new home at their own pace. They’re most likely afraid of entering an unfamiliar environment and, as a result, will be hesitant around pets and people they need to meet. This is a stressful time and stressful for the animals, therefore make certain to allow them to proceed at their own pace and treat them with all the tenderness you can. Give them good treatment, using respect and kindness and they’ll return to their former self within a matter of minutes.
As Pets in the Family Pets
Here’s a short summary of Italian Greyhounds. They are:
- They have been known to be wonderful companions, as they were the most loved pets of nobility and royalty for long periods of time.
- The dogs are very gentle and are affectionate and sensitive. This makes them an ideal choice for families of all kinds and even families with older children or other pets.
- But, they’re also prone to pursue other animals around and could cause injury.
- They are small in size, but large in the potential for cuddling. They’ll happily lie on their loved ones on laps.
- People with separation anxiety are known to suffer in the event that they are alone in a long time. This could result in weakening physical health, as well as destructive behavior.
- Energy-efficient, they can live comfortably in an apartment so long as they have something to do with their time.
- It’s easy and doesn’t require doing a lot of physical activity however, they still require an exercise routine to eliminate any excess energy.
- Possibilities of a number of health problems that you should know about. One of the most important issues is not exercising too much and the body too hard. Excessive exercise can cause injury.
- Unadaptable to colder climates due to their less-than-perfect coats. Therefore, they must have a jacket or sweater to keep warm in winter.
- Shedders are a problem, but it can be easily controlled by daily brushing using the use of a curry brush made from rubber.
- Simple to keep and does not require much bathing. If groomed, apply warm water and mild shampoo for dogs.
Final Thoughts
They may be small but they are incredibly loving hearts and have plenty of love to share. Although you might face difficulties when you are raising a dog but we think the bond you develop with your Iggy is more than worth it. As Iggy will dedicate to you, it is your duty to show them all the love and affection you can manage. So, they will enjoy their best life and you will be able to enjoy the time you share together.
Italian Greyhounds are amazing dogs that are loving and kind, and willing to be your favorite pet. Being content with the life you live with your pet ensures that your dog will be happy too. By applying the knowledge you’ve gained through this guide You’ll be on the way to providing your pet the attention they need and deserve. This adorable dog running through your heart of yours faster than you imagine.