About Italian Greyhounds
The Italian Greyhound is a miniature sighthound prized for its elegance, affectionate personality, and surprising athleticism. Known for their fine bones, short coats, and expressive eyes, they are often described as “cat-like dogs” — equal parts playful sprinter and devoted lap companion.
They’re sensitive souls who thrive on closeness with their humans. While their delicate frames require special care, their warmth and loyalty make them one of the most endearing small dog breeds.
Italian Greyhound Top Breed Takeaways
Background
Italian Greyhounds have a long history dating back over 2,000 years, appearing in ancient Roman art and later becoming favoured by European nobility during the Renaissance. Unlike their larger Greyhound cousins, Italian Greyhounds were bred almost exclusively for companionship, though their prey drive and speed reveal their sighthound roots.
They are the smallest members of the sighthound family, sharing the Greyhound’s slender build, deep chest, and love of speed. Today, they remain a niche but cherished breed, loved for their elegance, quirky personalities, and ability to seamlessly switch from lightning-fast bursts of play to curling under blankets.
Temperament
Deeply affectionate, Italian Greyhounds are often forming an intense bond with their owners. They’re gentle, quiet dogs that love to cuddle, but they can also be playful and mischievous when confident and comfortable. They are often described as “velcro dogs” because of their strong need for closeness. Most are happiest curled up on a lap or burrowed under blankets.
Their sensitivity means they respond best to calm, positive reinforcement. Loud environments, harsh training, or rough play can overwhelm them. Early socialisation helps prevent timidity and allows their loving, loyal personalities to shine.
Activity Level
Italian Greyhounds are sprinters, not marathoners. They adore short, high-energy zoomies around the yard but don’t require long-distance walks. Two short daily strolls, combined with bursts of play, usually satisfy their exercise needs.
Because of their lean build and thin coat, Italian Greyhounds dislike cold or wet weather. Many owners find that walks need to be adapted seasonally — with dog jumpers, raincoats, or even indoor play sessions in poor conditions. Secure spaces are critical, as their prey drive and speed make recall unreliable.
Health and Lifespan
Italian Greyhounds live 13–15 years on average. They are generally healthy, but their fine bone structure and small jaws predispose them to certain problems. Fractures in young dogs, dental disease, and patellar luxation are particularly common.
Preventive care is crucial: safe home environments, consistent oral hygiene, and regular vet visits all contribute to a longer, healthier life.
Appearance
Italian Greyhounds stand 33–38 cm tall and weigh 3.5–6 kg. Their sleek, aerodynamic bodies feature a deep chest, tucked-up waist, and long, slim legs. Their fine, glossy coats come in a variety of solid colours, including fawn, blue, black, red, and cream.
Their eyes are large and expressive, often giving them an almost soulful look, while their long neck and narrow head enhance their elegant silhouette. Their dolichocephalic (long, narrow) face shape gives them a refined profile and wide field of vision, traits that echo their coursing heritage.
Physical Characteristics
Despite their delicate frames, Italian Greyhounds are athletic and agile. Their gait is light, springy, and graceful. However, their thin skin and fine bones mean they’re prone to slips, trips, and skin tears — making household “IG-proofing” a common requirement.
Owners often use non-slip rugs, pet ramps, and baby gates to reduce fracture risk around the home.
How Regular Grooming Keeps Your Italian Greyhound Clean and Comfortable
Coat Care and Grooming Requirements
Italian Greyhounds’ short coats are low-maintenance. A weekly brush with a soft grooming mitt helps remove loose hairs and distribute oils for a healthy sheen. Their thin skin can be sensitive, so avoid harsh grooming tools. Pale-coated Italian Greyhounds may benefit from dog-safe sunscreen on sunny days, especially on the ears and nose.
Bathing
Italian Greyhounds should be bathed every 4–6 weeks, or more often if dirty. Use gentle, hypoallergenic dog-safe shampoos and conditioners like Aloveen Oatmeal Shampoo to avoid skin dryness. Always dry them thoroughly after a bath, as residual dampness can cause chills. Many owners find post-bath snuggles in microfibre dog towels help their Italian Greyhounds relax and stay comfortable.
Dental Care
Dental health is a top priority. Italian Greyhounds are particularly prone to periodontal disease due to their small jaws and crowded teeth. Daily brushing with a dog toothbrush and enzymatic toothpaste is highly recommended. Add VOHC-approved dog dental chews and routine professional cleanings to reduce the risk of extractions and systemic health issues linked to dental disease.
Clean Ears
Though less prone to infection than floppy-eared breeds, Italian Greyhounds still benefit from weekly ear checks. Look for odour, redness, or wax build-up, and clean gently with a vet-approved ear cleaner if needed.
Nail Trimming
Italian Greyhound nails grow quickly and should be trimmed every 2–3 weeks. Overgrown nails can alter gait and increase fracture risk. A pet nail grinder is often safer for their thin nails than clippers. If you hear clicking on floors, it’s time for a trim.
Vet Tip
Dental care isn’t optional for Italian Greyhounds — it’s essential. Daily brushing and regular professional cleans will prevent painful extractions later on.
Which Health Issues Should Italian Greyhound Pet Parents Watch For?
Periodontal (Dental) Disease
Italian Greyhounds are highly prone to periodontal disease because their long, narrow jaws crowd the teeth. Plaque and tartar build up quickly, leading to gum disease, bad breath, and tooth loss. Without brushing and regular dental cleans, bacteria from the mouth can even affect organs.
Patellar Luxation (Slipping Kneecaps)
Patellar Luxation is a common toy breed problem where the kneecap slips in and out of place. Signs include a “skipping” step or sudden lameness. Mild cases may improve with weight control, but severe luxations often need surgery.
Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders
Some Italian Greyhounds develop idiopathic epilepsy, with seizures that look like twitching, collapsing, or confusion. While distressing, medication usually controls it long-term.
Anaesthesia Sensitivity in Sighthounds
As sighthounds, Italian Greyhounds can react differently to anaesthetics. Old drugs carried higher risks, but modern agents are safe if used by vets experienced with the breed.
Skin Fragility and Injuries
Italian Greyhounds have paper-thin skin that tears easily. Even small scrapes should be cleaned and checked, as they bleed more than expected. Memory foam bedding and avoiding rough play help prevent wounds or pressure sores on elbows and hips.
Eye Conditions (PRA and Cataracts)
Italian Greyhounds can develop progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), which causes gradual blindness, or cataracts, which cloud vision. Early signs include bumping into furniture or hesitancy at night. Breeder testing reduces risk, but regular vet eye exams are still important.
Vet Tip
Regular vet visits help catch breed-specific issues like dental disease or patellar luxation early. If you notice changes in movement, appetite, or energy, see your vet promptly.
How Positive Training Helps Shape Well-Behaved, Bonded Italian Greyhounds
Training an Italian Greyhound can be rewarding but requires patience and an understanding of the breed’s sensitive temperament. They are intelligent but easily unsettled by harsh methods, so calm consistency is the key to success.
Early Socialisation
Early socialisation is crucial for Italian Greyhounds. Expose your puppy to a variety of sounds, sights, and safe experiences — from car rides and vet visits to gentle introductions with other dogs. Their natural timidity means that without structured exposure, they may become anxious or fearful in adulthood. Puppy preschool classes can provide a controlled setting to build confidence and social skills. Well-socialised Italian Greyhounds are friendlier, more adaptable, and less likely to develop long-term behavioural problems.
Training Time
Italian Greyhounds thrive in short, structured training sessions. Aim for 5–10 minutes at a time, focusing on one behaviour or command. Long sessions risk overwhelming their attention span and sensitivity. Integrating training into daily routines — such as practising “wait” before mealtime or “stay” at the door — helps reinforce consistency. Because Italian Greyhounds can be timid, always keep your tone encouraging and your movements calm to prevent stress.
Using Treats and Incentives
Positive reinforcement is the most effective approach. Use small, soft dog treats, verbal praise, and playtime as rewards. Rotate incentives to maintain motivation, as IGs can lose interest if the same reward is repeated too often.
House-Training
House-training is one of the most challenging aspects of IG ownership. Their dislike of cold, rain, and wet ground means they often resist toileting outdoors. Covered potty areas, artificial grass trays, or indoor setups can be useful in poor weather. Frequent breaks, high-value rewards, and unwavering consistency are essential. Avoid punishment for accidents, as it can make them more anxious and reluctant to toilet when asked. With patience, most learn, but expect a longer house-training process than with many other breeds.
Italian Greyhound Behaviour Management to Prevent Anxiety & Destructive Habits
Although Italian Greyhounds are gentle and affectionate, they can develop behavioural problems if their emotional and physical needs aren’t met. Understanding the breed’s tendencies helps owners prevent small issues from becoming major challenges.
Separation Anxiety
Italian Greyhounds are classic “velcro dogs” who bond intensely with their humans. They dislike being left alone for long periods and may vocalise, chew, or soil indoors out of distress. Building independence gradually — starting with short absences and extending over time — helps reduce anxiety. Interactive puzzle toys like a KONG Classic or lick mats can create positive associations with alone time.
House-Training Difficulties
Their small bladders and weather aversion mean accidents are common, even after initial training. Owners should expect setbacks and remain consistent with schedules and reinforcement. Many owners create sheltered outdoor spaces or use puppy pads to help their dogs succeed year-round.
Timidity
Without proper socialisation, Italian Greyhounds may become fearful of strangers, loud noises, or unfamiliar environments. Confidence-building games, gradual exposure, and rewarding calm behaviour are effective ways to support timid pups.
Prey Drive
Italian Greyhounds have strong chasing instincts and can bolt after small animals. Reliable recall is rare, so off-lead activity should only happen in secure areas. Long training leads are safer alternatives that allow them to stretch their legs without risk.
Play and Enrichment Activities to Keep Your Italian Greyhound Engaged
Italian Greyhounds are sprinters by nature, not endurance athletes. They require regular but gentle exercise that matches their build and temperament.
Short Daily Walks
Two short walks of 15–20 minutes each are usually sufficient. Use a well-fitted harness rather than a collar to protect their delicate necks.
Sprints & Zoomies
Secure, fenced areas let Italian Greyhounds enjoy bursts of high-speed running. These short sprints are excellent for burning energy and satisfying their sighthound instincts, but should be carefully supervised to prevent falls or collisions.
Puzzle Toys & Interactive Games
Mental stimulation is just as important as physical activity. Dog puzzle feeders, treat-dispensing toys, and snuffle mats engage their curiosity and help reduce boredom, especially when left alone.
Hide and Seek
Hiding toys or treats around the house taps into their natural hunting instincts and provides enrichment in any weather.
Keep Your Italian Greyhound Happy and Healthy with Balanced Nutrition
Nutrition plays a vital role in keeping Italian Greyhounds lean, healthy, and injury-free.
Adult Needs
Adult Italian Greyhounds need a balanced diet with high-quality protein to support muscle maintenance and moderate fat for energy. Monitor weight closely; excess weight adds strain to delicate bones and joints.
Puppy Needs
Italian Greyhound puppies require energy-dense food to support rapid growth, but feeding must be carefully balanced. Divide meals into three to four smaller feedings per day to maintain stable energy levels.
Specific Needs
Senior Italian Greyhounds may need softer diets if dental problems develop. Prescription diets may be recommended for epilepsy, heart disease, or dental issues. Owners should work with their vet to adjust feeding as their health changes with age.
How to Choose an Ethical Breeder or Adopt an Italian Greyhound Responsibly
Italian Greyhounds are tiny, elegant, and full of character. Despite their delicate frame, they’re playful, affectionate, and thrive in homes where they can stay close to their people. Whether you’re buying or adopting, start with a focus on welfare, not just appearance.
If you’re buying a puppy, choose a breeder who values health, temperament, and safety. Ethical Italian Greyhound breeders will screen for issues like patellar luxation, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), epilepsy, and other conditions concentrated in the breed’s small gene pool. Puppies should be raised indoors with fracture-safe setups, early exposure to sounds, people, and gentle handling.
Look for breeders who are transparent, registered with reputable organisations, and committed to ongoing support, not just the handover of a puppy.
Before committing, ask your breeder:
- Have both parents been tested for patellar luxation, PRA, and other inherited conditions?
- Can I see where the puppy is raised and meet the parents?
- How do you reduce fracture risk in young puppies?
- What socialisation and toilet-training foundations have been laid?
- Do you provide post-purchase guidance?
Rescue Italian Greyhounds are another option. Many are surrendered due to house-training challenges or lifestyle mismatches. While they may need extra patience with toilet training and confidence, they reward owners with intense loyalty and affection once settled.
Related Breeds to an Italian Greyhound
Love the Italian Greyhound’s elegance, sprinting energy, and affectionate nature? Here are some other breeds to consider:
Whippet: Larger and sturdier than the Italian Greyhound, but with the same sighthound grace and love of short sprints. Generally less fragile and easier to house-train.
Greyhound: The full-sized version of the Italian Greyhound. Gentle giants, surprisingly laid-back indoors, and well-suited to families who want a bigger but equally affectionate sighthound.
Toy Poodle: Similar in size but sturdier in build, with a curly low-shedding coat. More extroverted and easier to train, but higher grooming needs.
Chihuahua: Tiny like the Italian Greyhound but much bolder and more vocal. Better for owners wanting a lively watchdog rather than a sensitive lapdog.
Italian Greyhound FAQs
What is the difference between a Greyhound and an Italian Greyhound?
Greyhounds are large, robust sighthounds bred for racing and hunting, while Italian Greyhounds are toy-sized companions — far smaller, more fragile, and bred primarily as affectionate lapdogs despite sharing the same elegant build and sprinting instincts.
Do Italian Greyhounds need clothes in winter?
Yes, Italian Greyhounds have very fine, single-layer coats that offer little insulation. Jumpers, coats, and even pyjamas are recommended in cooler weather to help prevent shivering and weight loss. Many owners keep a rotation of dog clothing for winter walks, rainy days, and cosy nights indoors.
Can Italian Greyhounds ever be off-lead safely?
Their combination of speed and prey drive makes Italian Greyhounds unsafe to let off-lead in open, unfenced areas. Even well-trained Italian Greyhounds may bolt after birds, cats, or moving objects. Safer options include fully enclosed dog parks, secure backyards, or long training leads that allow freedom without risk.
Are Italian Greyhounds fragile with children and families?
Yes. Their fine bones make them vulnerable to accidental injury, especially around toddlers or rough play. Italian Greyhounds usually do best with older, gentle children who understand how to handle a small, delicate dog. With the right environment, they can be affectionate, playful family members.
Do Italian Greyhounds shed a lot?
Italian Greyhounds are low-shedding dogs thanks to their short, fine coats. However, because they lack an insulating undercoat, they need extra warmth in cold climates. Weekly brushing helps keep their skin healthy and coat shiny.
Are Italian Greyhounds good for apartments?
Italian Greyhounds adapt well to apartment living because they’re quiet, relatively low-exercise dogs. Their biggest needs are warmth, companionship, and safe spaces to sprint. Puzzle toys and indoor play keep them stimulated between walks.
Conclusion
Italian Greyhounds are elegant, sensitive companions who thrive in calm, loving homes. With thoughtful management of their fragility, consistent dental care, and patient training, they become loyal, affectionate pets whose personalities far outweigh their tiny frames.
