Italian Greyhound
The Good
- Miniature size perfect for smaller homes
- No aggression towards people or other dogs
- Short coat requiring minimal grooming
- Generally good health
- Easy to train and highly intelligent
The Real
- Need early socialisation to prevent shyness
- May chase small animals due to hunting instincts
- Sensitive to cold and damp weather
- Can be startled by loud noises and sudden movements
- Require careful handling due to delicate build
Gallery
Breed Overview
The Italian Greyhound is essentially a Greyhound in miniature - all the elegance and grace of their larger cousins packed into a delightfully compact companion. Standing just 32-38 cm tall and weighing between 3-6 kg, these little sighthounds are the perfect lap dogs with a surprising athletic ability.
Don't let their delicate appearance fool you - Italian Greyhounds can reach speeds of up to 40 km/h and were originally bred for hunting small game like rabbits and hares. Today, they're cherished as devoted companions who form incredibly strong bonds with their families. They're the type of dog that wants to be involved in everything you do, often following you from room to room like a shadow.
In Australian homes, these graceful hounds adapt well to various living situations, from Sydney apartments to Perth suburban homes. Their short, fine coat makes them relatively easy to care for, though you'll need to invest in some warm clothing for those chilly Melbourne winters or air-conditioned Brisbane summers. They're surprisingly hardy despite their refined appearance, but their thin skin and minimal body fat mean they feel the cold more than most breeds.
What makes Italian Greyhounds special is their unique personality blend - they're playful and energetic when it's time for action, but equally content to curl up on the couch for a Netflix marathon. They're gentle souls who thrive on positive reinforcement and can become quite shy if treated harshly.
History
History
The Italian Greyhound boasts an impressive 2,000-year history, making them one of the world's most ancient companion breeds. Archaeological evidence suggests these elegant little hounds originated in the regions we now know as Greece and Turkey, with depictions found on ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics and Roman artifacts.
The breed's journey through history reads like a who's who of royalty. Cleopatra adored these miniature hunters and gifted several to Julius Caesar. During the Renaissance, Italian nobility fell in love with these graceful companions, leading to their association with Italy - hence the name "Italian" Greyhound, though they didn't originate there.
European royal courts couldn't get enough of them. Frederick the Great of Prussia, Catherine the Great of Russia, and Queen Victoria all owned Italian Greyhounds. There's even a touching story of Frederick hiding under a bridge with his Italian Greyhound during the Seven Years' War - the little dog remained silent, potentially saving the king's life.
The breed nearly disappeared in the early 1800s, but dedicated English breeders worked tirelessly to restore the bloodlines. They arrived in Australia during the colonial period, brought by wealthy settlers who wanted to maintain their European lifestyle.
The breed's original purpose was hunting small game - their French name "lièvre" means hare - but they quickly became prized as palace companions and artistic muses. Renaissance painters frequently featured these elegant dogs in portraits of nobility, cementing their status as symbols of refinement and grace.
Traits & Characteristics
Italian Greyhound characteristics and temperament traits.
Caring Guide
Italian Greyhounds are generally healthy dogs with a lifespan of 13-15 years, which is excellent for any breed. However, like all purebreds, they're prone to certain health conditions that Australian owners should be aware of.
The most significant concern is Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), an inherited eye condition that can lead to blindness. Reputable breeders will DNA test their breeding dogs to screen for this condition, so always ask for health clearances when choosing a puppy.
Due to their fine bone structure, Italian Greyhounds are susceptible to fractures, particularly in their legs. This is often more about accidents than inherent weakness - they love to jump on furniture and can easily misjudge distances. Australian owners should puppy-proof their homes and consider ramps for high surfaces.
Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease affects the hip joint and typically appears in young dogs between 5-8 months old. You'll notice lameness in the hind legs, and while treatment varies from medication to surgery, most dogs recover well with proper veterinary care.
Hypothyroidism is fairly common and causes lethargy, weight gain, and coat changes. A simple blood test can diagnose this condition, and daily medication allows affected dogs to live normal, healthy lives.
Some Italian Greyhounds develop autoimmune disorders where their immune system attacks healthy tissue. These conditions require lifelong management but are very treatable with modern veterinary care.
Regular vet check-ups, maintaining a healthy weight, and protecting them from injuries are the best preventive measures Australian owners can take.
Feeding an Italian Greyhound properly is crucial for maintaining their health and elegant physique. These little athletes need high-quality nutrition but are prone to weight gain if overfed - and extra weight puts unnecessary stress on their delicate bone structure.
Most Italian Greyhounds do well on 1/2 to 1 cup of high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals. However, this can vary significantly based on your dog's age, activity level, and metabolism. Active dogs who participate in lure coursing or agility may need slightly more, while couch potatoes need less.
Australian owners should choose a premium dog food appropriate for small breeds, as these formulas have smaller kibble sizes and higher nutrient density. Puppy food is essential for growing Italian Greyhounds until they're about 12 months old, then transition to adult formulas.
Free-feeding isn't recommended for this breed - they can easily become overweight. Scheduled meal times also help with house training and establishing routine. Many owners find feeding twice daily works well with their dog's natural energy patterns.
For active Italian Greyhounds, glucosamine and chondroitin supplements can support joint health, while omega-3 supplements promote healthy skin and coat. However, always consult your Australian vet before adding supplements.
Treats are excellent training motivators, but keep them small and account for them in your dog's daily calorie intake. Avoid feeding from the table - these charming dogs are expert beggars, but human food can upset their delicate digestive systems and contribute to weight gain.
Fresh water should always be available, especially during Australia's hot summers when these thin-coated dogs can dehydrate quickly.
One of the Italian Greyhound's greatest appeals for busy Australian families is their minimal grooming requirements. Their short, fine coat is practically wash-and-wear, making them ideal for people who want a beautiful dog without the maintenance overhead.
Weekly brushing with a soft bristle brush or grooming mitt is usually sufficient to remove dead hair and distribute natural oils. During shedding seasons, you might need to brush more frequently, but they're considered moderate shedders compared to many breeds.
Bathing should be occasional unless they've gotten into something messy during their outdoor adventures. Over-bathing can dry out their sensitive skin, so use a gentle, moisturising dog shampoo when necessary. Many Australian owners find they can simply wipe down their Italian Greyhound with a damp cloth after muddy walks.
Dental care is absolutely crucial for this breed. Their small mouths can be prone to dental issues, so daily tooth brushing is ideal. Use a dog-specific toothpaste and a soft brush or finger brush. Many Australian vets recommend annual professional dental cleanings to maintain optimal oral health.
Nail trimming should be done regularly, preferably with a grinding tool rather than clippers. These dogs have hare feet, and the two middle nails can be left slightly longer than the outer ones. If you're uncomfortable doing this yourself, most Australian groomers and vet clinics offer nail trimming services.
Regular ear cleaning with a veterinary-approved solution helps prevent infections, especially after swimming or bathing. Their upright ears generally stay quite clean, but weekly checks are wise.
Eye care involves gently wiping away any discharge with a soft, damp cloth or veterinary eye wipes.
Italian Greyhounds are intelligent, sensitive souls who respond beautifully to positive reinforcement training. Harsh methods simply don't work with these gentle dogs - they'll shut down completely if treated roughly. Think patience, treats, and plenty of praise for the best results.
These little athletes need moderate exercise to stay healthy and happy. A daily walk plus some playtime usually meets their needs, but remember - they're sighthounds with a prey drive. In unfenced areas, always keep them on lead unless you fancy chasing them across three suburbs after a cat or rabbit.
Australian dog parks can be excellent socialisation opportunities, but look for ones with separate small dog areas. Their delicate build means rough play with larger dogs can result in injuries. Many Australian cities have specific small dog meet-up groups that are perfect for Italian Greyhounds.
Despite their athletic ability, these dogs are surprisingly adaptable to apartment living. Indoor play can meet much of their exercise needs, making them suitable for busy urban Australians. However, they do appreciate outdoor adventures - beach walks, bushland hikes, and camping trips are all excellent activities for bonding and exercise.
Lure coursing is a fantastic sport for Italian Greyhounds, allowing them to safely chase artificial prey. Many Australian dog clubs offer coursing events, and it's a wonderful way to channel their natural hunting instincts.
Training should start early with basic commands and house training. Many owners successfully teach their Italian Greyhounds to use indoor toilets during bad weather - handy during Brisbane's storm season or Melbourne's winter months.
Remember, these dogs can jump surprisingly high for their size, so secure fencing is essential in Australian backyards.
Who is an ideal owner?
Italian Greyhounds are perfect for people seeking an elegant, devoted companion who doesn't require extensive grooming or enormous amounts of exercise. They're ideal for both singles and families, adapting well to various Australian lifestyles from busy city professionals to relaxed retirees.
The perfect Italian Greyhound owner understands that these dogs need consistent companionship. They don't do well left alone for long periods - if you're working 12-hour days without support, this probably isn't your breed. However, they're excellent for people working from home or retirees who want a constant, loving companion.
Families with older children (8+ years) often do wonderfully with Italian Greyhounds. These dogs appreciate gentle handling and can become overwhelmed by very young children's unpredictable movements and loud voices. They're not aggressive, but they may hide or become anxious in chaotic households.
Australian apartment dwellers will find Italian Greyhounds surprisingly suitable, provided they commit to regular exercise. Their small size and relatively quiet nature make them good neighbours, though they will alert you to visitors.
First-time dog owners can succeed with Italian Greyhounds if they're committed to positive training methods and socialisation. These dogs are forgiving of mistakes and eager to please, making them excellent teachers for learning dog ownership skills.
Active individuals who enjoy weekend adventures will love having an Italian Greyhound companion. They're excellent travel buddies for caravan trips, beach holidays, and bush walks, though you'll need to pack their winter wardrobe for cooler destinations.
Patient, gentle people who appreciate a dog's emotional intelligence will find Italian Greyhounds incredibly rewarding companions.
Interesting facts about the Italian Greyhound
Interesting Fact
Italian Greyhounds were favourites of various royal families, including Anne of Denmark (consort of England's James I), Frederick the Great of Prussia, Catherine the Great of Russia, and Queen Victoria
Interesting Fact
These dogs can reach speeds of up to 40 km/h despite their tiny size, making them surprisingly athletic
Interesting Fact
The breed has survived for over 2,000 years, with depictions found in ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics and Renaissance paintings
Interesting Fact
Frederick the Great's Italian Greyhound once saved his life by remaining silent while enemy soldiers passed overhead during the Seven Years' War
FAQ
Italian Greyhounds typically cost between $1,400-$2,000 from reputable breeders, depending on bloodlines and location. You might also find dogs through Italian Greyhound rescue organisations. Remember to budget for ongoing costs like quality food, regular vet care, and winter clothing.
While similar in appearance and personality, Whippets are larger, standing up to 56 cm tall and weighing 11-18 kg. Italian Greyhounds belong to the toy group, while Whippets are in the hound group. Both make excellent companions but Italian Greyhounds are better suited to smaller living spaces.
Absolutely! Their small size and moderate exercise needs make them excellent apartment dogs. They're relatively quiet and adapt well to indoor living, though they'll need daily walks and regular outdoor playtime. Just ensure you have secure balconies - they're excellent jumpers.
They cope reasonably well with Australia's varied climate but need extra care in extreme conditions. Their thin coat means they'll need warm clothing during Melbourne winters and protection from sun during Perth summers. Many owners find they prefer staying indoors during very hot or cold weather.
Italian Greyhounds are gentle with older children who understand how to interact respectfully with dogs. They may feel overwhelmed by very young, boisterous children. They generally get along well with other dogs and can live peacefully with cats if properly socialised, though their prey drive may kick in with small, fast-moving animals.
Despite their athletic ability, Italian Greyhounds have moderate exercise needs. A daily walk plus some indoor or backyard play usually suffices. They love short bursts of activity followed by long naps - perfect for busy Australian lifestyles. Beach walks and weekend bush hikes are excellent bonding activities.