Overview
Average lifespan
Italian Greyhounds can live to about 14 years of age.
Average size and weight
33cm to 38cm
2.7kg to 3.6kg
Care requirements
Breed personality, characteristics & temperament
The Italian Greyhound is vivacious, alert, highly intelligent and very affectionate, especially when kept as a companion in the house, loving human companionship. They do not thrive well as kennel dogs. They are easy to train and are quick learners. Italian Greyhounds are generally cheerful, brave and courageous, but as they are also sensitive to loud voices or harsh words from their owner, they may become quite timid in the wrong environment.
Compatibility with other pets
They get on well with other pets but may need to be protected from larger, more boisterous dogs.
Care requirements
Well-fenced gardens are essential as there is a high risk of injury if allowed to roam free. Ideally, the Italian Greyhound is a house dog that should have access to the garden via a dog door. It needs a warm bed or basket, away from draughts, and containing a soft blanket or rug, as most Italian Greyhounds love to wrap themselves up in their blanket, even in the hottest weather. The thin, glossy coat is easy to keep clean, sheds very little hair and is virtually odourless. After bathing, care should be taken to make sure it is thoroughly dried.
Although as previously stated the Italian Greyhound is quite hardy considering its fine build, it is not suited for rough play as bones may be broken. It is therefore better suited to a household with older children who can be trusted to treat the dog with care and consideration, and also makes an ideal companion for the elderly and the infirm.
