Italian Greyhound
About the Breed
The Italian Greyhound is a refined toy sighthound known for its graceful appearance, affectionate personality, and elegant movement. Although delicate in appearance, this breed is athletic, intelligent, and surprisingly playful. Italian Greyhounds form very strong bonds with their families and are happiest when they can stay close to their people. Their loving temperament and manageable size make them popular companions for individuals, couples, and families who want a devoted house dog.
These dogs are sensitive and thrive in calm, nurturing environments. They are often described as “velcro dogs” because they love curling up under blankets, sitting in laps, and following their owners from room to room. While deeply affectionate, they can be reserved around strangers and may take time to warm up to new people and situations.
Italian Greyhounds are alert and curious with bursts of playful energy. They enjoy short periods of running and play but are equally content relaxing indoors with their family. Their intelligence allows them to learn quickly, though they can be independent and sensitive to harsh correction. Positive reinforcement and patience are essential.
The breed has a very short, fine coat that sheds minimally and requires little grooming. Because they have thin skin, fine bones, and little body fat, they are sensitive to cold weather and can be prone to fractures if handled roughly, especially as puppies.
History
The Italian Greyhound is an ancient breed with origins dating back more than 2,000 years. Small greyhound-type dogs were found throughout the Mediterranean and were especially admired in Greece and later in Italy, where they became favored companions of nobility and aristocracy.
During the Renaissance, these elegant little dogs were frequently depicted in paintings and sculptures alongside wealthy families and royal courts. They were cherished for their beauty, affectionate nature, and graceful movement. Many notable historical figures, including European monarchs, kept and admired them.
Although they share the streamlined shape and hunting ancestry of larger sighthounds, they were bred primarily as companions. Their small size made them ideal lapdogs while still retaining the athleticism and speed characteristic of the greyhound family.
The breed gained popularity throughout Europe and was eventually imported to the United States. The American Kennel Club recognized the Italian Greyhound in 1886. Today, they are treasured as affectionate companions and also compete successfully in conformation, obedience, agility, and lure coursing.
Height
Most Italian Greyhounds stand about 13–15 inches tall at the shoulder.
Weight
Most weigh between 7–14 pounds.
Life Expectancy
About 14–15 years is commonly cited.
Overall Health
Italian Greyhounds are generally healthy and long-lived, but they can be prone to several concerns.
Common issues include leg fractures, particularly in young dogs, dental disease, luxating patella, progressive retinal atrophy, and autoimmune conditions in some lines.
Their fine bones make careful handling especially important during puppyhood.
Health Testing They Should Have
Eye examination by a veterinary ophthalmologist
Patella evaluation
Cardiac evaluation
Thyroid testing when appropriate
Genetic testing relevant to the breeder’s lines
Breed Traits and Characteristics
Italian Greyhounds are affectionate, gentle, and sensitive dogs. They thrive in close companionship and often prefer to be with their owners as much as possible.
They are playful and athletic but can be cautious in cold weather and may need sweaters or coats.
Temperament Ratings
Affectionate with family: 10/10
Good with young children: 5/10
Good with other dogs: 8/10
Shedding level: 2/10
Watchdog/protective nature: 4/10
Energy level: 7/10
Grooming frequency: 2/10
Drooling level: 1/10
Coat Type
The Italian Greyhound has a short, fine, smooth coat.
Colors
Accepted colors include black, blue, fawn, red, cream, and variations of these shades.
Markings
White markings on the chest and feet are common and accepted.
Breed Standard Snapshot
The American Kennel Club breed standard describes the Italian Greyhound as a slender, elegant, and finely boned toy sighthound built for speed and grace. The overall impression should be one of refinement and balance, with all parts blending harmoniously to create a dog that is both delicate in appearance and athletic in ability.
Adults typically stand between 13 and 15 inches tall at the shoulder. Weight is not specified in the official standard, but most adults weigh between 7 and 14 pounds depending on their build and condition. The body should appear slightly longer than tall, with a deep chest, tucked-up abdomen, and long, straight legs.
The head is narrow and elongated with a fine muzzle and a slight stop. Dark, expressive eyes contribute to the breed’s alert and intelligent expression. The ears are small and folded back in a rose shape, becoming more animated when the dog is attentive.
The coat is short, smooth, and glossy, lying close to the body. All colors and patterns are accepted except brindle and black-and-tan. Common colors include fawn, blue, black, cream, red, and various white markings.
Movement should be high-stepping and elastic, reflecting both elegance and efficiency. The breed should move freely with good reach and drive while maintaining a proud carriage.
Temperament is an essential part of the standard. Italian Greyhounds should be affectionate, alert, and sensitive. They are devoted to their families and may be reserved with strangers, but they should not display aggression or extreme fearfulness.
The full breed standard is available through the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the Italian Greyhound Club of America.
Exercise Needs
They require daily exercise and opportunities to run in securely fenced areas. They also enjoy walks and interactive play.
Training Needs
They are intelligent but sensitive and respond best to gentle, reward-based training. House training may take additional patience.
Breed Resources
AKC Italian Greyhound page: https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/italian-greyhound/
Italian Greyhound Club of America: https://italiangreyhound.org
UKC breed reference: https://www.ukcdogs.com/italian-greyhound