Italian Greyhound

Temperament & Personality

The Italian Greyhound may be small in stature, but it has a huge heart and personality. Often described as a Greyhound in miniature, this elegant little sighthound is alert, playful, and highly affectionate with its family. Your Italian Greyhound (or “Iggy”) will adore curling up in your lap or under a blanket – they truly thrive on closeness and make devoted cuddle-buddies. At the same time, don’t let that dainty appearance fool you: when the mood strikes, these dogs can explode into rapid, agile bursts of speed, zipping around the house or yard in joyful play. An IG has been poetically called a “40-mph couch potato” – they love short spurts of activity followed by long lounge sessions.

In terms of disposition, Italian Greyhounds are generally gentle, sweet-natured, and sensitive. They tend to form a tight bond with their owners and may stick to you like Velcro. Many will follow you from room to room, content just to be in your presence. With strangers, IGs can be a bit shy or reserved at first. Early socialization helps them feel more confident meeting new people, but by nature they are more on the polite, delicate side rather than boisterously friendly. Around children, Italian Greyhounds are patient and loving if the kids are calm and handle them carefully. However, this breed does not enjoy rough play or being manhandled – rambunctious young kids can easily scare or even accidentally hurt an IG. For this reason, they are better suited to homes with adults or older, gentle children who understand the dog’s fragility.

Despite their lapdog reputation, Italian Greyhounds do have an innate prey drive since they are sighthounds. They will eagerly chase after squirrels, birds, or that fluttering leaf – anything that triggers their chase instinct. Outdoors, you’ll need to keep them leashed or in a securely fenced area, because an IG in pursuit mode has very poor recall (their instinct to run overrides any training). Inside the home, they generally get along with other dogs – especially other small breeds or fellow sighthounds. Many IGs love having a fellow IG to play with. They can coexist with cats if raised together, but a running cat may still entice a chase. Small rodent pets are probably not a great mix with this quick little hunter.

One thing Italian Greyhounds are famously sensitive about is bad weather. They dislike cold and rain intensely. Don’t expect your IG to want to go out for a walk on a chilly, wet day – they’ll tremble and protest! Most owners stock up on doggy sweaters and coats to keep their thin-skinned pups warm in winter. Similarly, loud noises or a lot of chaos can stress them out. This is a breed that craves gentle handling and a secure, cozy environment. In return, they give a ton of love and even a bit of comic relief (IGs have quirky, playful antics and endearing habits, like burrowing under blankets or perching on the back of the couch to watch out the window). Overall, if you’re looking for a loving, low-key companion who’s equal parts couch snuggler and occasional zoomie sprinter, the Italian Greyhound will gladly fill that role.

Care, Living Environment & Grooming

Italian Greyhounds are relatively low-maintenance in many ways, but they do have some special care considerations due to their size and build. Exercise needs are moderate: while IGs love to run in short bursts, they don’t require hours of intense exercise like larger breeds. Aim for a couple of daily walks (15-20 minutes each) and some playtime to let them stretch their legs. Many IGs will sprint around the yard or an open safe space for a few minutes – their famous “zoomies” – and that’s often sufficient to tire them out. They make excellent apartment dogs because of their small size and generally quiet nature (they are not big barkers). Just be sure your apartment is dog-proofed for a tiny, agile creature; IGs can jump onto furniture and squeeze into nooks you wouldn’t expect, so keep hazards out of reach.

When it comes to the living environment, the biggest factor is climate control. Italian Greyhounds do not tolerate cold temperatures or dampness. They have an extremely fine, short coat and very low body fat, so they chill easily. In cool weather, your IG will need a sweater or jacket outdoors, and many even appreciate a warm sweater indoors if the house is drafty. In hot weather, they generally cope better (they love sunbathing), but because they lack protective fur, be mindful of sun exposure – light-colored IGs can get sunburn or overheat if left under a blazing sun too long. Ideally, they should be housedogs who have access to soft bedding and plenty of blankets. You’ll often find your IG burrowed under covers to stay warm and feel secure.

Italian Greyhounds are well suited to small-space living as long as their exercise and potty needs are met. Many owners in apartments train their IG to use indoor potty pads or artificial turf for bathroom breaks, since going outside in bad weather can be a challenge for this breed. If you have a yard, it must be fenced without any gaps or small openings – IGs can slip through surprisingly small holes, and their speed means they can be gone in a flash if they take off after something. Supervision is key, as is using a harness and leash on walks (their slim necks are delicate, so a harness is safer than a collar for leash walking).

Grooming an Italian Greyhound is wonderfully easy in terms of coat care. Their short, sleek coat sheds very little and has no undercoat, so you won’t have much dog hair around the house. They also lack the typical “doggy odor” that some breeds have. A quick once-over with a soft brush or grooming glove once a week will keep their fine coat shiny and free of loose hairs. Bathing is only needed occasionally – maybe once a month or every few months – since they keep themselves quite clean (IGs are cat-like in their tidiness). Always dry them off well and keep them warm after a bath to prevent chills.

One huge aspect of IG grooming, however, is dental care. Italian Greyhounds, like many toy breeds, are very prone to dental disease. Their small jaws often lead to crowded or misaligned teeth, which easily trap tartar and cause gum infections. In fact, dental disease is the most common chronic problem seen in adult dogs (affecting 80% by age 2), and IGs tend to have more issues with their teeth than the average dog. You’ll need to be proactive: brush their teeth daily or at least several times a week with a dog-safe toothpaste. Regular professional dental cleanings at the vet (perhaps annually) will likely be necessary to prevent periodontal disease and tooth loss. It’s wise to start getting your IG comfortable with tooth brushing from puppyhood – make it a part of the routine just like feeding or walks.

Other grooming tasks include trimming those fast-growing little nails (about every 2-3 weeks, since IGs often dislike walking on rough surfaces that would wear nails down) and checking their ears periodically for any buildup. Because they have small, narrow mouths, also keep an eye on whether any baby teeth fail to fall out when adult teeth come in – retained baby teeth are common in IGs and may need removal by a vet to avoid dental crowding.

In summary, Italian Greyhounds are low maintenance in coat care but high maintenance in dental care. As long as you keep them warm, handle them gently, and keep those teeth clean, they are fairly easy dogs to care for in a home environment.

• Minimal Shedding: Their short coat sheds very lightly and doesn’t require regular trimming – just an occasional bath and a weekly once-over with a soft brush.

• Climate Care: Always dress your IG in cold weather (sweaters, coats) and provide plenty of blankets. In summer, protect them from sunburn and overheating since they lack a protective coat.

• Dental Hygiene: Brush teeth daily and schedule routine dental check-ups. This breed’s teeth are a trouble spot and need consistent care to prevent serious dental disease.

Training & Socialization

Training an Italian Greyhound can be a unique mix of easy and challenging. On one hand, IGs are intelligent and eager to please their beloved owners – they want to do the right thing (especially if there’s a treat and praise involved). However, they also have a stubborn, independent streak at times, and can be quite sensitive. The best approach is gentle, positive reinforcement training. Harsh corrections or yelling will only scare an Italian Greyhound and cause them to shut down (or hide under the nearest blanket). Instead, use cheerful praise, tiny yummy treats, and lots of encouragement. Interactive toys can also make training more engaging. Keep training sessions short and upbeat, because this breed may lose interest with too much repetition. They respond well to clicker training and reward-based lessons that make learning a game.

One notorious challenge with IGs is housetraining. Patience is key here. Italian Greyhounds can be difficult to potty train completely, partly because they hate going outside in unpleasant weather and partly due to their small bladder size. Expect accidents, and don’t punish them for it – that will only make them sneaky about finding a corner to go in. Many owners litter-box train or use indoor potty pads as a backup for rainy days. Establish a consistent routine, take your IG out frequently (especially after meals, play, and naps), and lavishly reward them for doing their business in the right spot. It may take longer than with other breeds, but they eventually get it with consistency and positive reinforcement.

Early socialization is very important for Italian Greyhounds. Because they can be timid by nature, exposing puppies to a variety of people, gentle dogs, sights, and sounds will build their confidence. Puppy socialization classes are a great idea – just ensure playmates are around the same size to avoid accidental injuries. IGs can be alarmed by large, boisterous dogs, so controlled, calm introductions help them realize not everything is scary. Socialization also helps curb any tendency toward skittishness or separation anxiety. Speaking of which, Italian Greyhounds love being with their people and can become anxious if left alone too long. Crate training from puppyhood can provide them a safe, den-like space and mitigate anxiety, but they are not a breed that can be left alone all day. If you work long hours, consider a dog walker or a canine companion to keep your IG company.

When it comes to obedience, keep expectations realistic. IGs can learn basic commands (sit, stay, come, etc.) and even do cute tricks, but they might never have rock-solid recall off-leash – their sighthound instinct to run can override training. Always practice recall in a fenced area or on a long leash for safety. They excel in agility or lure coursing, which taps into their sighthound skills, but those activities should be introduced carefully to avoid stressing their fine bones. Positive, gentle training and lots of social contact will yield a polite, well-mannered Italian Greyhound. They may never be the most obedient dog on the block, but they will charm you with their manners and bond if you approach training with understanding.

Health Considerations

For a small breed, Italian Greyhounds can live a long life – often 13 to 15 years is typical, and it’s not unheard of for some to reach 16 or 17 with good care. They are generally healthy little dogs, but they do have a number of breed-specific health issues to keep in mind. Many of these can be managed or mitigated with the right care. Here are some common health considerations for IGs:

• Dental Disease: As mentioned earlier, dental problems are extremely common in Italian Greyhounds. Crowded teeth lead to rapid tartar buildup, gingivitis, and eventually tooth loss if not addressed. Regular dental cleanings and daily at-home brushing are essential. Watch for signs like bad breath or difficulty eating – these can indicate oral pain. Given that over 80% of dogs show signs of dental disease by age 2 (and IGs are often in that category), staying on top of oral care will greatly improve your IG’s quality of life.
• Luxating Patella: This orthopedic issue (a slipping kneecap) frequently affects toy breeds, and IGs are no exception. A luxating patella can cause your dog to skip or hold up a hind leg intermittently. Mild cases can be managed by keeping your IG fit and not letting them do reckless jumps, while severe cases might require surgery. Breeders typically check their stock for patella issues, but the risk is always present due to the breed’s build.
• Leg Fractures: Italian Greyhounds have very fine, delicate legs, and unfortunately broken legs are a well-known hazard in this breed, especially in puppies and high-strung young dogs. They often believe they can fly and will leap off furniture or zoom around on slippery floors. New IG owners must “puppy-proof” their home and supervise to prevent daredevil antics. Even with precautions, accidents can happen – if your IG is limping or yelps after a fall, seek veterinary care immediately. The good news is that with proper pinning or casting, most fractures heal well, but the treatment can be expensive and stressful. Preventive measures (stairs ramps, carpet runners, not allowing unsupervised high jumping) are very worthwhile.
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): This is an inherited eye disorder where the retina degenerates over time, eventually causing blindness. Italian Greyhounds are one of the breeds prone to PRA. It typically doesn’t show up until 3-5 years of age or later. Night blindness is an early sign. There is no cure, but responsible breeders screen their dogs with DNA tests to avoid producing affected puppies. If you have an IG, it’s a good idea to have their eyes examined annually by a veterinary ophthalmologist. Dogs with PRA can still live happy lives as it progresses slowly, but they will need a safe, consistent environment as their vision dims.
• Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease: This tongue-twister condition is another issue seen in small breeds, including IGs. It involves degeneration of the femoral head (the “ball” of the hip joint), leading to arthritis and lameness in young dogs. It usually appears at 6-12 months old, causing limping in a rear leg. Treatment can range from surgical removal of the affected femoral head (which often allows a pain-free life afterward) to strict rest and physical therapy in milder cases. If your young IG starts skipping a leg and yelping when moving, your vet may take X-rays to check for this disease.

• Hypothyroidism: Low thyroid function can occasionally be seen in Italian Greyhounds. It’s more common in medium/large breeds, but IGs do get it too. Symptoms include lethargy, weight gain, and skin/coat changes. A simple blood test will diagnose hypothyroidism, and it’s treated with a daily thyroid hormone pill. Once regulated, these dogs do very well.

In addition to these issues, Italian Greyhounds can develop a variety of autoimmune conditions (affecting the blood, skin, or other systems). While not every IG will have problems, it’s good to establish a relationship with a vet who understands the breed. Stay up to date on wellness checks, and don’t hesitate to investigate if you notice anything unusual – whether it’s your IG hiding more (could indicate pain), losing weight, or any lumps/bumps. The IG Club of America also recommends that breeders do health testing such as annual eye exams and DNA tests for PRA, plus patella evaluations.

The bottom line: If you keep your Italian Greyhound at a healthy weight, protect them from injuries, and provide excellent dental and preventative care, you’ll likely enjoy many years with a sprightly, healthy little companion. Always be prepared for the unexpected, but know that many IGs live long lives without major issues.

Cost of Ownership

Italian Greyhounds may be small dogs, but their care costs can add up in some areas. On average, you should budget around $1,500 per year for the typical expenses of owning an IG. Let’s break down where that money goes:

• Food: Feeding an Italian Greyhound isn’t expensive simply because they eat so little. You might spend about $200-$300 a year on quality dog food and the occasional treats. Even a premium diet won’t break the bank with a 10-pound pup.

• Routine Vet Care: Annual checkups, vaccinations, and preventative meds (heartworm, flea/tick) will generally run in the $300-$400 per year range. This assumes your IG is healthy; if they develop issues or need dental cleanings, those costs would be additional (for instance, a dental cleaning under anesthesia might cost $300–$500, perhaps once every 1-2 years).

• Pet Insurance: Because Italian Greyhounds have some unique risks (like broken legs or dental surgeries), many owners opt for pet insurance. Plan for about $30-$50 a month (around $400-$600 per year) if you go this route. Insurance can really pay off if an accident happens – for example, repairing a fractured leg can cost a few thousand dollars out of pocket.

• Grooming: Here you’ll save money. IGs require minimal professional grooming – no haircuts needed. You might spend ~$100 a year on bathing supplies, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and nail trimmers. If you prefer to have a groomer do baths and nail trims, it could be about $30-$50 per session, a few times a year.

• Extras: Don’t forget other essentials. Italian Greyhounds absolutely need sweaters and coats for cold weather, so expect to invest in a small wardrobe (maybe $50-$100 initially). You’ll also want a well-fitting harness and leash ($20-$30), a comfy bed and plenty of blankets ($50), and some toys (they often love squeaky toys or soft toys to toss around). Replacing toys or beds occasionally might add $50-$100 per year.

One area that can be higher than average is dental care costs. As mentioned, many IGs need regular professional dental cleanings; if your vet recommends it annually, that’s an extra few hundred dollars a year to budget. It’s money well spent to avoid painful dental disease.

Overall, while feeding and grooming an Italian Greyhound are inexpensive, you should be financially prepared for vet bills – both routine and unexpected. Setting aside a small emergency fund or maintaining pet insurance is wise for this breed. In the end, the love and companionship these little dogs offer make every penny worth it!

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Affectionate and gentle: Italian Greyhounds love to snuggle and form very close bonds with their owners, making them wonderful lapdogs and companions.
• Apartment-friendly: Their small size, quiet nature, and moderate exercise needs make them well-suited to apartment or city living (with appropriate indoor play and potty provisions).
• Low shedding & easy grooming: Hardly any doggy odor, minimal shedding, and no complicated coat grooming – a quick brush and the occasional bath keep them looking great.
• Long-lived: IGs often live 13+ years, giving you a decade or more of loving companionship. Many stay playful and spry well into their senior years.
• Elegant and unique: With their delicate, graceful build and charming personality, Italian Greyhounds tend to draw admiration and are a delightful conversation starter for dog enthusiasts.

Cons

• Fragile build: Those slender legs and fine bones are prone to injuries (like breaks or sprains). Owners must supervise to prevent high jumps or rough play, and veterinary care for fractures can be costly.
• Weather-sensitive: Italian Greyhounds hate cold and rain. You’ll need to coax them outside in bad weather and invest in doggy sweaters. In extreme temperatures, their exercise can be limited.
• Difficult housetraining: This breed is known for being challenging to fully housebreak. They can be stubborn about going outside, especially if it’s wet or chilly, leading to accidents if the owner isn’t extremely consistent and patient.
• Separation anxiety: IGs get very attached and do not like being left alone for long periods. Anxious behaviors (crying, potty accidents, destructive chewing) can occur if they feel isolated. They thrive in homes where someone is around much of the day or they have another dog companion.
• Stubborn/sensitive in training: While intelligent, Italian Greyhounds can be a bit stubborn and willful. Their sensitive nature means training requires a gentle touch – they won’t respond well to harsh commands. This can make obedience training a slower process for novice owners.

Fun Facts

• Ancient Origins: The Italian Greyhound is an ancient breed, believed to date back over 2,000 years. Small greyhound-like dogs have been found depicted in ancient Egyptian art and were companions to Roman nobility. Their name comes from their later popularity in Renaissance Italy, where they became the lapdog of choice for aristocrats and were frequently featured in paintings by famed artists of the era.

• Royal Favorites: Throughout history, Italian Greyhounds have been beloved by royalty and nobility. Notable historical figures who owned IGs include King Louis XI of France, Queen Victoria of England, King Charles IX, Catherine the Great of Russia, and Anne of Denmark. These little dogs were truly the aristocrats’ companions, often pampered in palaces – perhaps that’s how they developed such a taste for the good life (and warm blankets)!

• IG or “Iggy”: Fans of the breed often nickname them “Iggies.” Don’t be surprised if you see communities, rescues, or social media tags referring to IGs as Iggies – it’s a term of endearment for these adorable pups. Another funny nickname is the “Velcro dog,” thanks to how attached they become to your favorite human’s side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Italian Greyhounds shed a lot?

Not at all – Italian Greyhounds are very low shedders. Their coat is short, smooth, and single-layered (no fluffy undercoat), so they lose only a small amount of hair. You might find the occasional tiny hair on your clothes or furniture, but they don’t “blow coat” seasonally like heavier-coated breeds. Regular gentle brushing will catch most of the loose hairs. Also, IGs have minimal dander and very little odor, which is good news for keeping your home clean (and for some allergy sufferers).

Are Italian Greyhounds good apartment dogs?

Yes, Italian Greyhounds can thrive in apartments. They are a toy breed and take up very little space, and they tend to be quiet indoors (they’ll bark at strangers or odd noises sometimes, but they’re not yappy by nature). Their exercise needs are moderate and can be met with daily walks and some indoor play. Potty training might require using pads or a litter box if you don’t have easy outdoor access, but many apartment-dwelling IGs do just fine with that arrangement. The key is providing warm, comfortable spots for your IG (they love soft blankets and sunny windows) and making sure they still get out for fresh air and a bit of exercise each day. As long as you’re attentive, an IG is actually quite well-suited for city and apartment life.

How much exercise does an Italian Greyhound need?

Italian Greyhounds need a modest amount of exercise – definitely less than larger breeds, but more than just being couch potatoes. A good rule of thumb is a couple of short walks per day (around 20 minutes each) plus some playtime. Many IGs will do a hilarious sprint around the living room or backyard (the “IGgy sprint”) once or twice a day to burn off energy, and that’s often sufficient. They enjoy running and can be very fast in short bursts, but they don’t have a lot of endurance. Interactive play like fetch with a soft toy in a hallway, or chasing a lure on a flirt pole for a few minutes, can also satisfy them. Keep in mind their fragility – exercise in a safe, fenced area or on leash, and avoid rough play with much larger dogs. With regular mild exercise, your IG will stay fit and happy, and then gladly snuggle with you the rest of the time.

Can first-time owners handle an Italian Greyhound?

In many cases, yes – Italian Greyhounds can be suitable for first-time dog owners, provided you’re aware of their specific needs. They are loving, relatively small and manageable, and don’t have complex grooming or massive exercise demands, which is encouraging for a novice owner. However, a first-timer should be prepared for the challenges of housetraining this breed and be ready to be very gentle and patient in training. You’ll also need to be comfortable taking special precautions to prevent injuries (for example, not letting your IG jump from high places and being vigilant during play). If you’re willing to put in the time for potty training and can commit to keeping your IG safe and warm, there’s no reason a newbie owner can’t do great with this breed. Many first-time owners have fallen in love with IGs and successfully raised them – often ending up so smitten that they stick with the breed for life!

References

1. American Kennel Club – Italian Greyhound
2. PetMD – Italian Greyhound
3. Italian Greyhound Club of America – Health