Overview: The Italian Greyhound is very playful and affectionate with a lot of energy. This breed gets along well with other breeds and animals but is shy of strangers. It is relativity easy to train and can make a good watchdog but wouldn't be a very good guardian. This canine can resist heat but doesn't like the cold.

Temperament: The Italian Greyhound is very similar to the Greyhound in that it loves to run and chase things down. It is a gentle and friendly breed that is loyal to its owner and friends but is shy around people it doesn't know. It can be easily injured if it is playing too rough with bigger animals.

History: There are no records of when the Italian Greyhound was first bred but there is art that dates back to nearly 2,000 years ago that make references to this dog from Turkey, Greece and other lands in the Mediterranean. During the Middle Ages they became especially favored among the Italian courtiers. This breed came into England during the 17th century and became quite popular with nobility rather quickly. The breed kept its popularity even through the time of Queen Victoria. After that time, however, it started to lose its fame and started to dwindle in numbers until after World War II when it almost became extremely rare in England. This dog was brought to the United States during the early 19th century and didn't receive much notoriety but those imported were of very good quality. The breed was imported back to England to start it over and has risen in popularity since.

Names: The Italian Greyhound is also known as the piccolo Levrieve Italiani.

Groups: The AKC formally recognized the Italian Greyhound in the year 1886 placing it in the Toy Group.

Physical Characteristics: The average adult Italian Greyhound can have a height of 13 to 15 inches and can weigh 7 to 14 lb. The coat of this breed features short hair that is glossy and very soft to the touch. The coat can come in a very large variety of colors both in solids and in blended with both having markings.

Care: The Italian Greyhound loves to play outside during almost any weather except the cold. Going for a walk or just playing with it should be ample exercise for this dog. This dog cannot live outdoors as it needs constant human interaction. Additionally, it is best if it has access to the outdoors. The Italian Greyhound’s coat is considered odorless, sheds very little and needs to be brushed only occasionally to remove any loose and dead hair. The teeth need regular brushing.

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