Italian Greyhound 101
The Italian Greyhound is playful, keen, very affectionate, intelligent and kind-mannered. A sighthound in a small package, the Italian greyhound shares their larger relatives' characteristics. They loves to run and chase. They are extremely gentle and sensitive. Reserved, often timid, with strangers (our 3 are an exception, they are confident, outgoing & very energetic) They are devoted to their family and good with older children, other dogs and pets. However, she can be easily injured by children and larger dogs.
Italian Greyhound Care
The Italian greyhounds like a daily romp outdoors, but hates the cold. Their exercise needs are best met with a good walk on leash or even a rollicking game indoors. They also like to stretch out and sprint in a fenced area. This breed cannot live outdoors. This breed is also a challenge to housebreak. Adult dogs are fairly hardy, however puppies are more fragile up until they are about eighteen months old, and they can break a leg rather easily. 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 Health
Major concerns: peridontal disease
Minor concerns: epilepsy, leg fractures, patellar luxation, PRA
Life span: 12-15 years
Note: The breed is susceptible to leg and tail fractures. She shares the sighthound sensitivity to anesthesia and barbituates.
