Italian Greyhound Training & Care

The Italian Greyhound is a pleasing pet breed to own. With their warmth and comfort-seeking trait, they are suitable for families and are very kind to strangers. Though they might be aloof in the presence of people, the Italian Greyhound could get attached to its owner. With their quirky and inquisitive personalities, this breed is great for experienced dog owners, the ones who know how to deal with different types of doggy characteristics.

The Italian Greyhound is a bit sensitive and stubborn. If you are to train them, they prefer upbeat and active methods. They also respond to treats and positive reinforcement. Compared to other breeds, they seem to be the happy and energetic type. However, physical discipline or even the slightest of touch could affect them as they are sensitive to touch. This makes them not quite suitable for very young children.

If you want a small and lightweight dog for your home, then this breed is suitable for you. The breed is polite and peaceful, without barking much. This dog can be inactive at one point and then athletic the next day. They are not a hypoallergenic breed. So if you or someone in your family has allergies or asthma, this breed could only trigger those.

This breed is a good choice for experienced dog owners who are living in relatively smaller spaces. if youre setting is in an apartment or a building, this dog will not be a bother to you or to your neighbors.

Our 4 paw rating to the suitability of the Italian Greyhound for a sophisticated home and an indoor-oriented lifestyle.

Size

12-15 inches, 6-10 pounds

Coat Care

The Italian Greyhound sheds little to no hair

Minimal coat care that can be maintained by rubbing it with a chamois or a soft towel

Family Life

Suitable for buildings, condominiums and apartments as they dont bark much or request to be taken out most of the time. However, this breed might be difficult for families with small or playful children as they could be quite aggressive when touched. Still, they are very loyal and attached to their owners to the point of following them around at times.

Lifestyle

They can adapt to an indoor lifestyle. However they could be quite demanding and inquisitive of their owners activities. Also, they are very difficult to train so training must be made while they are you to sharpen their focus and to help them with obedience. These dogs can be both a couch potato and an athletic pet.

Health

Life Expectancy

12-15 years

Diseases

Check for epileptic tendencies

Very prone to slipped stifle and fractures

Their bones are very fragile as puppies. When they reach 18 months, they might outgrow this weakness and become stronger.

Exercise

Outdoor running exercise is suitable for this breed as they have the urge to go and play outside

Training

Positive reinforcement, no touch or hitting as this breed could be quite touch-sensitive. They respond very well to treats and energetic, upbeat commands.