The Italian Greyhound Club

The Italian Greyhound is a small Sighthound in the same genetic family of dogs as the greyhound, whippet , saluki afghan hound, ibizan hound etc. although it is classified in the Toy Group in the UK and the USA . In Europe however, it is classed as a Sighthound.

The deep chest and high waist define its type and this build allows it to run with great speed. The Italian Greyhounds small stature means that it has far more stamina than its larger cousins. Generally a long lived breed that retains is youthful energy well into old age.

They are of slender build and their average height is around 15 ins at the highest point of the shoulder. There is debate as to whether they were originally bred for hunting small game or meant to be simply a companion. In all likelihood, both are true, as they are adaptable to both town and country life. The Italian Greyhound’s coat can be any colour, except brindle and black and tan. Occasionally these two variations appear due to the infusion of another breed such as the English Toy Terrier or whippet.

As with many ancient breeds, their depiction in art and scupture provides insight into their origin. Miniature greyhounds appear in ancient decorative arts of the Mediterranean countries dating back 2000 years. During the Renaissance, Italian noblemen adopted the breed as their own and it became known as the Italian Greyhound. The breed made its way to England in the seventeenth century, gaining steadily in popularity.

Lively and high on the  intelligence scale,  Italian Greyhounds like to spend most of their time in the company of their owners. They love attention and affection, and are generally gentle friend to both adults and children. Italian Greyhounds are an active breed that love to run and play and require daily walks. They can be hyper active in the home if not given sufficient exercise.  Their small size makes them ideal  house and armchair dogs and their short, smooth coat makes them one of the easiest breeds to groom. They are low on the allergenic scale and thus can be owned by people who may not be able to tolerate longer coated breeds and even cats.

While they can behave and enjoy being lap dogs, they are not for owners who do not have the time or facilities to allow them to burn up their seemingly boundless energy.

Italian Greyhounds like company, and helping you with your chores!

Being little sighthounds, they love to run free

And given the opportunity Italian Greyhounds love to hunt too!

If  you want to find out more about Italian Greyhounds come and join us at one of our Club shows or events to meet some of our members and their Italian Greyhounds in person.  It’s the best way to get to know them!

And if you’re thinking about giving a home to an Italian Greyhound please take time to read our advice under Finding an IG and Avoiding Puppy Farmers.