Italian Greyhound

• ExerciseModerate

  A daily walk plus some playtime hits the spot.

• GroomingWash & go

  The occasional brush and bath is plenty.

• Living spaceApartment-friendly

  Happy in smaller homes with regular outings.

• Owner experienceSome experience helps

  A little know-how makes life smoother.

• Commitment14–15 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Dental issues · Legg-Calvé-Perthes · Patellar luxation

The Italian Greyhound is a miniature sighthound of porcelain elegance — a gentle, sensitive, deeply affectionate companion that lives for warmth and closeness. It sprints in joyful bursts if given a safe enclosed space, but its true calling is burrowing under blankets on a warm lap, making it a wonderful, quiet housemate. It bonds intensely and can be timid, so it needs gentle, positive handling and patient socialisation; harsh treatment or a chaotic home overwhelms it. With almost no body fat it feels the cold acutely and needs a coat outdoors and cosy bedding. The short coat is wonderfully easy, needing only a weekly wipe. Two health realities define IG ownership. First, its fine legs are fragile and prone to fractures, especially in young dogs leaping from furniture, so discourage high jumps and supervise play. Second, the breed is very prone to dental disease in its small mouth, so a diligent dental routine is essential and not optional. Also watch for patellar luxation, epilepsy and progressive retinal atrophy, and note its anaesthetic sensitivity (tell your vet). Keep it warm, protect its legs and teeth, and an Italian Greyhound will be an elegant, devoted companion for fourteen to fifteen years.

• How much exercise does a Italian Greyhound need?

  Moderate. A daily walk plus some playtime hits the spot.

• How much grooming does a Italian Greyhound need?

  Wash & go. The occasional brush and bath is plenty.

• Is a Italian Greyhound suited to apartment living?

  Apartment-friendly. Happy in smaller homes with regular outings.

• Is a Italian Greyhound a good fit for first-time owners?

  Some experience helps. A little know-how makes life smoother.

• How long do Italian Greyhound live?

  14–15 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Italian Greyhound?

  Keep an eye out for Dental issues, Legg-Calvé-Perthes, Patellar luxation. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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