Before You Adopt
Tips for finding the best cat or dog for you; plus: preparing for a puppy
Adopt an Italian Greyhound
Picture: Kent and Donna Dannen
Family:
sighthound, Southern (sighthound)
Area of origin:
Italy
Original function:
lap dog
Average size of male:
Ht: 13-15, Wt: 7-14
Average size of female:
Ht: 13-15, Wt: 7-14
Other names:
piccolo Levrieve Italiani
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Energy
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Exercise
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Playfulness
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Affection
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Friendliness towards dogs
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Friendliness towards other pets
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Friendliness towards strangers
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Ease of training
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Watchdog ability
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Protection ability
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Grooming
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Cold tolerance
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Heat tolerance
Italian Greyhound Dogs Available on Petfinder Right Now
See more adoptable Italian Greyhound dogs available on Petfinder
Italian Greyhound Dog Temperament
A sighthound in a small package, the Italian greyhound shares her larger relatives' characteristics. She loves to run and chase. She is extremely gentle and sensitive. Reserved, often timid, with strangers, she is devoted to her family and is good with children, and other dogs and pets. However, she can be easily injured by boisterous children and larger dogs.
Italian Greyhound Dog Care
The Italian greyhound likes a daily romp outdoors, but she hates the cold. Her exercise needs are best met with a good walk on leash or even a rollicking game indoors. She also likes to stretch out and sprint in a fenced area. This breed cannot live outdoors. Care of the fine short hair is minimal, consisting only of occasional brushing to remove dead hair. Regular brushing of the teeth is important in this breed.
Italian Greyhound Dog Health
Major concerns: peridontal disease
Minor concerns: epilepsy, leg fractures, patellar luxation, PRA
Occasionally seen: none
Suggested tests: knee, eye
Life span: 12-15 years
Note: The breed is susceptible to leg and tail fractures. She shares the sighthound sensitivity to anesthesia and barbituates.
Dogs Related to the Italian Greyhound
Afghan Hound
Basenji
Borzoi
Greyhound
Ibizan Hound
Irish Wolfhound
Pharaoh Hound
Saluki (or Gazelle Hound)
Whippet
Shelters with Italian Greyhound Dogs
Some animal welfare organizations with Italian Greyhounds ready for adoption:
