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Italian Greyhound Facts
- Group
- Toys
- Affiliations
- AKC, CKC, UKC
- Height
- 13" - 15"
- Weight
- 7-15 lbs.
- Lifespan
- 14 years | Add yours
- Exercise Requirement
- Training Requirement
- Grooming Requirement
- Colors
- Breed Characteristics
Alternate Names
piccolo levriero Italiano, IG, iggy
Origin
The Italian Greyhound originated in the regions now known as Turkey and Greece.
Date Of Origin
This breed was developed more than 2,000 years ago, however, it didn't become favored in Italy until the 1600's.
History
The Italian greyhound is the smallest of the sighthounds. Descended from dogs that are believed to have existed over two thousand years ago, it was found throughout southern Europe during the middle ages. It became popular in Italy during the sixteenth century and England during the seventeenth century. It was a favorite of royalty, including Catherine the Great of Russia and Princess Anne of Denmark. It has almost always been kept as a companion, although it may have originally been bred to hunt small prey. It was imported to the U.S. in the mid to late nineteenth century.
Description
The Italian greyhound is a small, slender, and finely boned dog. It is similar to the large greyhound; smaller and finer but with the same long, narrow head, folded ears, deep chest, and tapering, curved tail. It has a short smooth coat that may be of any color. Brindle markings or tan points are not acceptable. Blue, fawn, red, seal, and white are the most common colors.
Temperament
The Italian greyhound is an affectionate, needy, and somewhat needy dog. It is devoted to its owner but often aloof with strangers. It is intelligent and trainable but can be stubborn. It does well with older children.
Uses
It is a very peaceful companion dog that must be treated gently. It flees from rough children and loves serene people.
Health Concerns
Autoimmune disease, hypothyroidism, Legg-Perthes disease, luxating patellas.
Additional Information
It is a notoriously sensitive to the cold and therefore needs a warm bed and temperate environment. In winter it should wear a jacket outside.
Sources
The Howell Book Of Dogs
Publisher: Wiley Publishing Inc, 2007
Website: http://www.wiley.com/WileyCDA/
Author: Liz Palika
Dog Bible
Publisher: BowTie Press, 2005
Website: http://www.bowtiepress.com/bowtie/
Authors: Kristin Meuh-Roe, Jarelle S. Stein
Simon & Schusters Guide to Dogs
Publisher: Simon & Schuster inc, 1980
Website: http://www.simonandschuster.com
Author: Elizabeth Meriwether Schuler
The New Encyclopedia of the Dog
Publisher: Dorling Kindersley Publishing, 2000
Website: http://www.dk.com
Author: Bruce Fogle
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