Italian Greyhound

The Italian Greyhound (often called the “IG” or “Iggy”) combines two contrasting qualities. He is a true sighthound, capable of running 25 miles per hour and chasing prey with focused intensity. Yet, he is also a close-bonding companion that seeks warmth, comfort, and physical contact.

He is elegant and fine-boned, with slender legs, a curved back, and a distinctive high-stepping gait. Despite his delicate appearance, he is resilient and active. He is best suited to an owner who wants a dog that stays close and thrives on companionship.

History and Origin: The Companion of Kings

The Italian Greyhound is an ancient breed. Mummified dogs very similar to the IG have been found in the tombs of ancient Egypt, dating back 2,000 years. From Egypt, the breed made its way to the Mediterranean, where it became a favorite of the Greeks and Romans. However, the breed truly found its identity in Renaissance Italy.

A Royal Favorite

During the Middle Ages and Renaissance, owning a miniature greyhound was a status symbol. They appear in countless paintings by masters like Giotto and Bosch, often nestled in the laps of nobility.

• Famous Owners: Catherine the Great, Mary Queen of Scots, and Queen Victoria all owned Italian Greyhounds. Frederick the Great of Prussia loved his IGs so much he was buried alongside them.
• The “Velcro” History: Throughout history, their primary job has been twofold: to look beautiful and to keep their owners warm. This ancient purpose explains why they are so physically affectionate today.

Physical Characteristics: A Porcelain Statue

The IG is the smallest of the sighthounds, with a physique shaped for speed.

• Height: 13–15 inches (33-38 cm).
• Weight: 7–14 pounds (3-6 kg).

The Greyhound Silhouette

He resembles a scaled-down standard Greyhound in overall proportions.

• Body: Deep chest, tucked-up waist, and a gracefully curved back (roach back).
• Legs: Long, slender, and fine-boned. This is both his beauty and his curse (see Health).
• Gait: He moves with a distinctive “hackney” gait, lifting his front feet high like a show pony. It is elegant and prancing.

coat and Color

• Coat: The coat is satin-smooth and very short. It offers zero protection against the cold.
• Color: Any color is allowed except brindle or black and tan. Common colors include blue (grey), fawn, red, and seal (black), often with white markings.

Temperament and Personality

The Italian Greyhound is often described as “cat-like.” He is independent, loves high places, and hates to get his feet wet.

The Close-Bonding Companion

The IG consistently seeks physical proximity. He will frequently be in his owner’s lap when seated, and will burrow under covers (a behavior called “nesting”) and sleep pressed against his owner at night. He needs physical contact to feel secure. He is not well-suited to owners who want a more independent dog.

The Sensitive Soul

He is emotionally sensitive. He picks up on household tension. If you yell, he will tremble. He needs a peaceful, harmonious home. He can be shy with strangers, often hiding behind his owner’s legs until he feels safe.

The Hunter

Despite his size, he is a sighthound with a strong prey drive. If he sees a squirrel or other small animal, instinct takes over immediately. He should never be off-leash in an unfenced area.

Training and Exercise Needs

Exercise: The “Zoomies”

He has two speeds: 0 mph (asleep) and 35 mph (sprinting).

• The Zoomies: Once a day, he will explode into a frenzy of running in circles, jumping over furniture, and banking off the sofa. This lasts for about five minutes, and then he crashes.
• Daily: A brisk walk is usually enough, but he needs that explosive playtime.
• Weather: He hates the cold and the rain. Getting an IG to go outside in a drizzle is a battle of wills. You will need a wardrobe of sweaters and coats.

Training: The Housebreaking Challenge

We must address the elephant in the room: Housebreaking an Italian Greyhound is difficult.

• The Cold Factor: Because they hate bad weather, they often refuse to go outside to potty.
• Tiny Bladders: They have small bladders and a high metabolism.
• Stubbornness: They are not naturally obedient like a Lab.
• Solution: Many owners use pee pads or litter boxes indoors to avoid accidents during winter. Patience and consistency are mandatory.

Health and Lifespan

Italian Greyhounds are generally long-lived, often reaching 13 to 15 years or more. However, they have one major physical weakness.

• Leg Fractures: This is the biggest risk. Their leg bones are like pencils. Jumping off a sofa or a bed can result in a broken leg, which is expensive to fix. You must be vigilant about preventing jumps, especially with puppies.
• Dental Disease: Their mouths are small and crowded. Daily tooth brushing and regular professional cleanings are essential to prevent tooth loss.
• Epilepsy: Can occur in some lines.
• Color Dilution Alopecia: Blue dogs may have thinning hair.

Is an Italian Greyhound Right for You?

The Italian Greyhound suits a specific type of owner.

Yes, if:

• You want a permanent snuggle buddy. You want a dog that is always touching you.
• You live in an apartment. He is small, quiet, and clean.
• You enjoy dressing your dog. He needs clothes in the winter.
• You are gentle. You want a sensitive, loving companion.

No, if:

• You have rough children. A toddler can accidentally break an IG’s leg.
• You work long hours. He suffers from separation anxiety.
• You have zero tolerance for accidents. Housebreaking is a lifelong project.
• You want a rough-and-tumble dog. He is a fragile jewel, not a wrestler.

For owners who can manage the fragility risks and the housebreaking challenges, the Italian Greyhound is an affectionate, close-bonding companion with an elegant appearance and an ancient lineage.