Italian greyhounds and Italian greyhound puppies: A Dog Lovers Breed Guide

Truly a Greyhound miniature, the Italian greyhound is a playful, alert, and very affectionate companion. In the Middle Ages, the Italian greyhound was a favorite companion for noblewomen treasured for its determination, endurance, and speed to hunt small game. The IG embodies the same qualities as the greyhound.

The IG, as Italian greyhounds are often called, are adored for their gentle personality and affectionate, loving nature. The breed is full of energy and zestful despite their tendencies to restfully snuggle with their owners. The Italian greyhound is also very intelligent, which makes training easy. 

A brief history of the Italian greyhound 

Evidenced by images of dogs resembling the Italian greyhound in art from Greece and Turkey dating back to 2000 years ago, this dog has been around for over two millennia. Greyhound skeletons have also been found in several archeological digs. By the Middle Ages, the breed made its way among the aristocracy in Southern Europe, especially Italy, which resulted in its current name. In the 17th century, the Italian greyhound gained quick popularity in England among the nobles. In 1820, the breed was one of the only two dogs recognized and written about as toy breeds. The IG continued to rise in favor and hit its peak during the reign of Queen Victoria.

Some royals who proudly owned the Italian greyhound include Queen Victoria, Mary Queen of Scots, Charles I, Princess Anne of Denmark, and Fredrick the Great of Prussia. After this period, the breed’s numbers declined drastically and almost disappeared after World War II in England because they were considered an unaffordable luxury. Fortunately, by the late 1800s, the Italian greyhound had already made its way to America. Despite their small numbers, they were healthy and sound. The breed’s numbers in the USA later helped revive the breed in Europe. Since then, the Italian greyhound has risen gradually in popularity, enjoying a second renaissance as modern owners rediscover the delight historical owner’s adored in the little hound’s elegance. 

Characteristics of Italian greyhounds

The Italian greyhound shares the greyhound’s characteristics but in much more slender and smaller proportions. The IG has a life expectancy of 13-15 years. 

Appearance

The breed is greatly admired for its air of sophistication that most owners find particularly attractive. Italian greyhounds are slender with a visible waist and an abdominal tuck-up. Their back legs are strong and muscular despite their slender frame, and they enable them to run at impressive speeds. The breed features a flat forehead and dark, intelligent medium-sized eyes that are well spaced. They have a long narrow muzzle that ends in a dark-colored nose. They also have a deep narrow chest and a long slender neck. Their limbs are characterized as ‘fine boned’ as they are long and straight. Italian greyhounds have small hare-like feet and a slim tail with a slight curl.

Considered one of its most outstanding attributes, the Italian greyhound’s coat is sparse, shiny, and silk-like to the touch. With regards to their color, all colors and markings are acceptable except brindle and tan markings.

Size

Italian greyhounds stand tall at 13 to 15 inches at the shoulder. They weigh about 6-10 pounds, with some getting up to 15 pounds. 

Temperament and personality

It is easy to assume the Italian greyhound is weak and timid. Despite their dainty frame, they boast of a robust deposition, having survived over the centuries. The breed strongly bonds with its owner and is happiest when in their company. They enjoy companionship and do not like being left alone for long periods. They are good-natured and do not easily get upset, making them the best pets to have around children. Despite enjoying the company of children, they do not take well to rough play as they can be easily injured due to their delicate structure and size. 

Despite their love of home comforts, Italian greyhounds are sighthounds that have a healthy prey drive. They enjoy chasing after small animals and have an inherent need to stay active and run about. The IG can get along with other dogs but does not engage in lively play too often. 

If not well socialized when young, the Italian greyhound tends to be reserved and shy. They may also be wary of new people and new situations that may lead them to seek assurance from their owners. They generally tend to take the role of a watchdog at home and will bark loudly at new arrivals. However, they aren’t known to be good guard dogs due to their size and timidness. 

Trainability

The Italian greyhound is intelligent and can easily be trained with positive reinforcement. They can be sensitive. Therefore it is crucial to avoid punishing them as it acts as a demotivator. Toilet training is one of the trickiest bits of training for this breed. This is because they dislike the wet, cold outdoors, and their bladder size is pretty small. 

How do Italian greyhounds show affection?

Italian greyhounds are known to be extremely shy, especially around strangers but are also very affectionate dogs. Like the greyhound, they are classic velcro dogs who are literally bonded to their owners. Due to their energetic nature, they will not only follow you around but will playfully entertain you as they do. They also love to cuddle and sometimes even refuse to sit by themselves. On more than one occasion, they will snuggle up to your lap to enjoy the warmth and all the attention. 

Do Italian greyhounds shed?

Italian greyhounds have a short coat and are considered to be a low shedding breed. Since they only have a single coat, they do not shed seasonally, and due to their miniature size, there really isn’t much hair that falls off. For this reason, grooming them is also a quick and easy task. 

The breed is generally considered ‘hypoallergenic’ because they shed very little hence do not pose a great risk to people who suffer from allergies. There are factors, however, that may cause an Italian greyhound to shed more than usual. These factors include; poor diet, dehydration, sunburn, excessive licking, and diseases such as cancer.

Are Italian greyhounds good pets?

Italian greyhounds (Iggys) are precious, gentle, and sweet-natured hounds. They are great pets because of their loving and affectionate nature, coupled with their ever-present rambunctious energy. IGs are amicable with other pets such as cats and dogs. They also enjoy the company of older children, with the exception of rough play. Considered as velcro dogs, once you get an Iggy, you will never be alone again as they will follow you everywhere.

Iggys are intelligent and respond well to training with the help of positive reinforcement rather than punishment. They do not bark unnecessarily but only to alert you of any new arrivals to your home. The breed also shed infrequently, which protects not just your furniture but also those people who suffer from any allergens. They have minimal grooming needs, and due to their single coat, the task gets even easier. Italian greyhound star apartment-friendly and enjoy sitting on the couch quite often.

Do Italian greyhounds like to cuddle?

Italian greyhounds are doting companions who enjoy cuddling and snuggling with their owners. They enjoy sitting in their owner’s lap, where they can better seek companionship and warmth. 

How to groom an Italian greyhound

Italian greyhounds have a short soft coat that is satin-like in texture. They shed very little due to their single coat, hence, they do not require much grooming and maintenance. Your hound requires the following essential grooming tasks:

Italian greyhound Exercise

Despite their size, these energy balls require a decent amount of daily exercise. Unlike greyhounds, the Italian greyhound has stamina and needs exercise to burn off their rambunctious energy reserves. They require 40-60 minutes of daily exercise. If you have access to a place where they can freely and safely run, let them enjoy a couple of runs and include some fun games. One of the best ways to keep your IG healthy and happy is through daily walks. When they are puppies, however, they require minimal exercise because their joints and bones are still very fragile. Other than physical stimulation, your dog also requires mental stimulation, considering how intelligent they are. There are some fun toys that you can use to incorporate a generous amount of mental stimulation. In the absence of an exercise routine, Iggys tends to become bored, frustrated, anxious, and even destructive.

Italian Greyhound Puppies

Often confused with the Whippet, Italian greyhounds are much smaller. They are the smallest of the sighthound category. In Italy, The IG is also known as the Piccolo Levriero Italiano. Here are some developmental milestones you should observe in your Italian greyhound puppy:

2 – 3 weeks: They open their eyes and are aware of light, movement, and their surroundings.

4 – 5 weeks: Further development of senses

6 – 8 weeks: Playing with littermates and weaning begins

Ten weeks: House training begins

3 – 4 months: puppies gain independence

6 months: Puppy teeth are replaced with adult teeth

Socializing an Italian Greyhound Puppy

Italian greyhounds are overly sensitive to a lack of exposure in the early stages of their lives. They often get stressed by new things and changes, even as adults, if they aren’t properly socialized.

When does socialization begin?

Socialization begins right after birth. However, the most important bit is exposing the puppies to the outside world. Immediately after the puppy is inoculated, they should be introduced to areas beyond the comfort zone of their home. Socialization is also an ongoing process that should be incorporated into your puppy’s training regime.

How to go about socializing your Italian greyhound puppy

A great place to start would be simply taking your puppy out on walks around your neighborhood. This way, they get to interact with a new environment, new smells, new sights, new people, and new animals. It is also important to visit public places such as restaurants and business places.

When outdoors, care should be taken when allowing strangers to approach your pup. Small children should particularly approach the puppy slowly and gently. Have some treats handy to give your pet after an even slight stressful encounter.

You should also indulge your dogs in play dates and gradually go to dog parks where they can interact and play with other dogs in an observed environment. Some pet parents prefer enrolling their Iggys in puppy socialization classes before actually taking them outside to new environments and new people. Consult your breeder and vet when deciding on how to socialize your Italian greyhound puppy.

Housetraining an Italian Greyhound puppy

Did you know that lack of housetraining is one of the main reasons why IGs are surrendered to Italian greyhound rescues? It is quite true that housetraining an IG can be challenging. However, Iggys can be successfully housetrained regardless of their age. Housetraining is an all-year-round task and admittedly a way of life. When bringing an Italian greyhound home, it is wise to treat them like they aren’t housetrained yet. Even though the hound may have been housetrained at the foster home, they are now facing a completely new environment, so it is advisable to start from the beginning. As you usher in cooler months, accidents are more likely to happen because IGs are averse to cold and wet weather.

Here are a few valuable tips to help you when housetraining an Italian greyhound puppy:

1.      Crating

Crating can be an important tool in housetraining. Dogs are den animals, and having a ‘space’ of their own enhances their feeling of safety and a place where they can retreat to when they are feeling anxious or stressed. Remember, a crate is a management tool, not a punishment tool. Proper crate training is a crucial bit of housetraining that can keep the housetrained throughout their life. Here are few crating tips to establish a successful housetraining experience for your Italian greyhound:

•  A crate, however, shouldn’t be used for more than four-hour intervals. Eventually, an Italian greyhound puppy can do well without a crate, but the crate emphasizes the housetraining. It is safe to stop using a crate if your IG goes through a year’s entire seasons without a housetraining training incident or very few incidents.
• The crate should be large enough for your Iggy to turn around and lie in. If the crate is too large, it gives your Italian greyhound an opportunity to mess in one corner and rest in another.
•  Reinforce that a crate is a wonderful place by feeding all meals in the crate and having special treats and toys given only while in the crate. Line the crate with warm blankets and near a heat vent or warm spot.
• Teach your Iggy the command “Kennel” whenever he enters the crate.
• Never let your dog out of the crate unless they are quiet. If you do let them out when they are noisy and whining, they learn that negative behavior gets them out of the crate.
• When your Italian greyhound puppy leaves the crate, do not make it a big thing. Making it a big thing only confirms to your hound that they were in an awful place.

2.      Communication

Most IGs will never let you know they need to go out and potty, especially during the cold and wet weather. It is your responsibility as a pet owner to communicate to your dog what you need them to do. How do you achieve this? It is through praise and correction. If you find your IG relieving themselves inside the house, say ‘No’ and take them outside. When your Italian greyhound puppy potties outside, praise them and give them a treat. Set up a clearly followed schedule to take your hound out to potty. IGs will gladly sneak off to a corner and help themselves if you do not take them out.

3.      Elimination schedule

Take your hound out first thing in the morning, after confinement, after eating, after an extensive period of excitement or play, and before going to sleep at night. A chart is helpful to keep a log of every potty break until you are accustomed to their potty schedule. Hounds are particularly creatures of habit, and they can quickly adhere to an established routine that considers your pet’s needs and your schedule. 

4. Teach your dog to go potty on command

When taking your dog to go potty, use a command such as ‘Go potty” or “Hurry up”. If your IG goes to the bathroom when the command is issued, praise them and give them a treat. If they don’t, bring them back in the house and crate him while you are in the room, then try pottying again after 15 minutes. 

5. Limiting freedom and supervision

Until your Italian greyhound is completely trained, they should always be in your sight or confined. This allows you to immediately praise or correct them, thus prevent mistakes from occurring too often. A great tactic adopted by pet owners is the umbilical method. This is where you leash your IG to your waist to allow for constant supervision by limiting their freedom. This method of supervision strengthen s the bond between pet and owner and can keep an excitable dog calm. Baby gates are also a useful tool during supervision. Remember, IGs are jumpers and will often try to jump a baby gate or get their leg stuck in it. For this reason, crates are more preferred. 

6. Praise or Correction 

Praise or correction should be given within one to two seconds of the activity to be effective. Correcting an Italian greyhound puppy hours after displaying certain behavior is useless. You must catch them in the act. It is normal for owners to assume that their dogs knew they were misbehaving, but in reality, the hound did not. For instance, if you find your dog pottying in the house, say ‘No’ and take them outside immediately. After pottying outside, give your dog their favorite treat and praise them. Always do this to establish good potty habits all year round. Italian greyhound’s do not respond to harsh behavior or punishment. 

7. Give your dog room to move about

 Some dogs are shy when going to potty and need a bit of space. A longer leash is a perfect solution for this problem. Giving your hound more space and a bit of privacy will help them go potty faster. Play with distance to know what works best for them.

8. Move on and clean up

When your dog goes potty in the house, clean it out immediately. Use a product that can eliminate odors effectively. This discourages your IG from picking up the scent and returning to soil the same spot again. Products specifically designed to remove odors tend to be more effective rather than simply using carpet cleaning products. 

9. Learn your dog’s signals for potty

Italian greyhounds, unlike Labradors, will not bark or scratch at the door to signal they want to go potty. For this reason, you need to keep an eye out for the signs that your IG needs to go potty to avoid unnecessary accidents on the house. If your dog gives you a signal, praise them and respond immediately. You could try placing a bell on a string by the door that your dog can reach. 

10. Create a protected area for the cold weather and/or seasons

Italian greyhound’s dislike the cold. Consequently, it is wise to consider building an outdoor shelter that is protected from the cold where your dog can go potty in the cold months. A Poop Tent is also a brilliant alternative that can act as an outdoor shelter. 

11. Feeding

 The quality of food you choose to feed your dog determines their waste. High quality food is better absorbed and produces less waste. Avoid open-feeding your dog and instead stick to a feeding schedule. Your dog should also have access to fresh water whenever they are thirsty. However, for young puppies, you can remove the water after an hour or two before bedtime. 

What should I feed my Italian Greyhound Puppy?

The best food for your Italian greyhound puppy considers their digestive system and canine anatomy. The digestive tract of a dog hasn’t significantly evolved from when they were undomesticated animals. Diets that consist of high protein best suit Italian greyhounds.

After an Italian greyhound puppy has been weaned by its mother, they are ready to start eating puppy food. A ¼ cup of high quality puppy food per day is a good place to start your puppy on. An Italian greyhound puppy between the ages of 8 and 12 weeks old needs four meals every day. A puppy between the ages of 3 and 6 months old needs to be fed three meals a day. When the puppy gets to between 6 months and a year old, they are only fed twice a day. At about six months, your puppy is now ready for a healthy adult diet.

The best picks of dog food for your Italian greyhound puppy should:

•  Meet the nutritional standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). It is usually displayed on the product’s packaging.
•  Meet the life stage of your dog. Most dog foods clearly indicate whether the product is for adult dogs or puppies, and some go ahead to specify the age bracket. Some are categorized as foods formulated for growth or all life stages, which is appropriate for your puppy.
• Be premium dog food that predominantly features meat. Often, non-meat proteins lack the necessary amino acids that Italian greyhounds require. Foods with enough protein content facilitate the growth of a puppy. The first few ingredients on a dog food label make up the majority of the recipe. Therefore it is advisable to choose foods that list good quality meats as the first few ingredients.

Some of our recommended puppy foods for Italian greyhound puppy include:

ORIJEN Puppy Dog Food: This is a biologically appropriate grain-free dog food for puppies. It consists of deboned turkey, chicken, whole eggs, yellow flounder, and locally sourced fruits and vegetables. The food is rich in protein and fats to help support a puppy’s growth and development. ORIJEN Puppy food contains 85% poultry, eggs, and fish, 15% vegetable and fruits, and 0% of plant protein.

Primal Freeze-Dried Dog Food Chicken Formula: The dog food offers a high protein ratio that appeals to your Italian greyhound’s diet. It boosts your puppy’s overall weight and health. The nuggets are naturally preserved, and all you need to do is add a little water to make them more palatable. The dog food is appropriate for all life stages, making it appropriate for a puppy.

ACANA Puppy & Junior Dry Dog Food: This is a wholesome, biologically appropriate dog food for canine puppies. The product is nutrient-dense and rich in meat. It consists of 60% free-run chicken and turkey, cage-free eggs, and wild-caught flounder. This combination offers the required protein levels required for a growing pup to be healthy and happy.

Blue Buffalo Wilderness Dry Puppy dog food: This dog food is laden with high-quality protein that supports muscle growth and a puppy’s cognitive development. It is grain-free and filled with protein-rich chicken rich in antioxidants and essential fatty acids found in a mother’s milk.

NUTRO ULTRA Puppy dry dog food: NUTRO is a protein trio diet that uses chicken as its number one ingredient atop lamb and salmon coupled with a blend of 15 superfoods that support growth and an overall healthy puppy. Their diet promotes healthy brain development and a strong immune system.

Fun Facts about the Italian Greyhound

The IG is an absolutely adorable dog breed. There are many interesting facts and statistics about Italian greyhounds that you may not know. Let’s dive into unknown facts about the Italian greyhound for all greyhound lovers:

Kylie Jenner owns two adorable Italian greyhounds

Over the years, Kylie has accumulated nine pups, five of which are Italian greyhounds. The Keeping Up with Kardashians star and well-known entrepreneur is a passionate dog lover.

Kylie’s Italian greyhounds go by the names Norman, Bambi, Rosy, Kevin, and Bambi. Kevin, the IG Kylie recently introduced to her fans on social media, has up to five million likes. She called him her ‘son’ and revealed how he loved her slippers. 

They’re lapdogs

Most people assume that Italian greyhounds are bred to be racing dogs. However, unlike this popular belief, IGs were bred as lap dogs for royalty. As a result, many IG owners can attest to this breed’s love of sitting on their laps and staying very close. An Ig will do whatever it takes to always stay close to their owner because it is in their DNA.

Iggy’s do not snore

The Italian greyhound is not a dog breed that snores. For owners who are looking for quiet dogs, this is definitely the breed for you. They do not snore when sleeping, and this is probably the reason why most owners do not mind sleeping with them in the same room or even bed. 

They do not drool

Drooling is common not just in dogs but in humans as well. Fortunately, the Italian greyhound doesn’t drool often. If you love dogs but are a little apprehensive about their drooling, the IG may be the perfect breed for you. You will not feel like cleaning up after spending time with them to get rid of slobber.

Italian greyhounds love to relax

Despite their energetic bouts, IGs love to relax more than race. Like their large breed counterparts, the greyhound, they are couch potatoes and have a laid-back approach to life. They particularly enjoy lazing about in the sun to soak up the warmth. 

They thrive in small places

Often, people think that Italian greyhounds need a lot of space to run about. This dog breed is very compact and thrives in both large homes and apartments as long as they get in their daily exercise. Ensure they have a generous sleeping space as they love to stretch out. 

Italian greyhounds love company

IGs love receiving a lot of affection and attention. However, despite their passion to hog all the attention, they also love having company around. They thrive when in the company of other dogs. Iggys do not get jealous of other dogs in the home because they are pack animals. Having another dog or Italian greyhound in the home also helps them better deal with separation anxiety. Since they do not take up much space, it is easy to have another dog in the house other than an Iggy.

They don’t need a lot of exercise

Unlike popular belief, the IG doesn’t need too much exercise. The belief is supported by their reputation of being great racing dogs. An IG needs about a 20-30 minutes walk daily to keep them healthy and happy. They don’t really need to run during the walk, but a brisk walk would be deemed sufficient.

Italian greyhounds are great watchdogs

Italians have a sweet, lovable disposition that makes them seem like unlikely guard dogs or watchdogs. However, IGs are very keen on foreign or strange noises and people. They will always bark to inform you of a new arrival. Even though they are easily scared therefore can’t be depended on as guard dogs, they are excellent watchdogs. 

They respond to the tone of your voice

Italian greyhound’s are intelligent and very perceptive to their owner’s feelings. They are keen on the tone of voice you use as you communicate. When you are angry, your dog can tell from your voice and may get easily intimidated. When you speak too quietly and gently, they may not take you seriously. It is best to be gentle and firm when communicating with your Iggy. This way, it is clear that you are the pack leader. 

Tips for adopting an Italian greyhound

Like all living things, abandoned IGs need a place they can call home and receive the unconditional love they enjoy giving. Italian greyhounds end up in rescues for a number of varied reasons. The famous Kylie Jenner’s Italian greyhounds, for example, are all adopted pets from rescues. Some of the main reasons why Iggys end up in rescue center include:

• Difficulty during potty training: Italian greyhounds are more challenging to housetrain compared to other breeds. It is one of the main reasons owners surrender their pets to adoption and rescue centers. Iggys can be house trained, however, they tend to veer off their training and have accidents every now and then.
• Off-leash accidents: Italian greyhounds are sighthounds that get very excited by small animals that run. They run at about 25 miles per hour and cover a great distance, after which they are likely to get lost because they have no idea how to get back. It is for this reason that their owners are advised to always have them on a leash when outside. 
• Children: Italian greyhounds do not like noises as they are a timid breed. They are generally fine living with children over eight years but not rambunctious toddlers. When scared, they are likely to bite. 
• Electric fences: Electric fences aren’t suitable for a home with an Italian greyhound. They are likely to never want to go outside after experiencing shock and combined with the difficulty associated with house training them, and it becomes a disaster. Their thin fur coat and skin also easily lead to burns. 

When adopting an Italian greyhound, there are several factors that you should keep in mind:

• Every Iggy has their own story. Italian greyhounds end up in shelters for many reasons. It is important to find out why the IG you intend to adopt ended up in the shelter. This helps you decide whether you are a great fit for the dog, considering their past. 

When you decide to bring home an Italian greyhound, it is your duty to keep them safe and ensure your home is a safe environment. The little dogs are vivacious creatures who enjoy jumping around without much thought to what may or may not hurt them. Here are some tips to keep your Italian greyhound safe inside the home:

• Do not leave food lying around, as it can be a hazard to your IG.
• Office chairs with casters should be pushed under a table or desk. An Italian greyhound is likely to take a fall from a moving chair resulting in broken legs.
• All doors and windows should be secure because Iggys are great escape artists.
• Keep your toilet lid down, especially if you use chemicals to clean it. They can’t resist drinking from the toilet.
• Store your cleaning products in secure cabinets.
• Do not leave your IG unattended on a balcony. 

When outside exercising or socializing your greyhound, it is important to keep your dog on a secure leash and lead. A Martingale collar is one of the safest and effective collars one can use on an Italian greyhound. It should be properly fitted and have a long flexible leash.

FAQs about Italian Greyhounds

Are Italian greyhounds aggressive?

No, Italian greyhounds are often described as affectionate, intelligent, agile, companionable, but not aggressive. The breed is sensitive and doesn’t respond well to verbal or physical abuse and may, as a result, become withdrawn, fearful or aggressive.

Is an Italian greyhound a good dog?

Yes, Italian greyhounds are a shy and loving breed that enjoys human companionship. They are intelligent, vivacious, and are sensitive to loud voices or harsh words. They are great family pets for families with older kids. 

How much is an Italian greyhound?

An Italian greyhound puppy has an average price of $1600, with prices ranging between $1200 to $3000. The first-year expenses amount to about $3720 and after that about $970 yearly. These figures are based on training costs, medical expenses, treats, food, license registration supplies, and a microchip. The expenses may be lower depending on your choice of vet and supplies.

Are there Italian greyhound breeders near me? 

There are reliable online resources that can help you gain access to a reputable Italian greyhound breeder. The World Dog Finder, for example, is one of the biggest directories of Italian Greyhound dog breeders in the world. The site gives you access to registered breeders around your location. The American Kennel Club is also a reliable site that offers buyers and breeders a platform to interact.

Can I adopt a rescued Italian greyhound?

Yes, you can adopt an Italian greyhound. A great place to look for an Italian rescue greyhound is:

• The Italian Greyhound Rescue Foundation, which happens to be a national resource. 
• Dog rescue groups such as the Italian Greyhound Club of America Rescue, Midwest Italian Greyhound Rescue, and Italian Greyhound Club UK. Most states have a local non-profit rescue organization that caters to IGs. 
• Public Animal shelters and humane societies
• Helpful websites include Adopt a Pet, Pet Finder, IG Rescue. They work with local dog rescues and humane societies to house Iggys that need a home.

Can an Italian Greyhound hunt?

There exists controversy over the Italian greyhound’s original purpose. Was the hound bred for household companionship or small game hunting? The hound likely served both purposes. Being sighthounds, they have an incredible prey drive and can quickly catch their prey. However, they are also very fragile, and their training greatly determines their capabilities. 

Is an Italian greyhound good with kids?

Italian greyhounds are not typically good with very small children or children that enjoy roughhousing. They are better around older children. However, a great way to mitigate this risk would be to have an IG puppy grow up with the kids and ensure they enjoy pleasant experiences. 

How tall do Italian greyhounds grow?

Italian greyhounds grow up to a height of between 13-15 inches at the shoulder. 

How fast can Italian greyhounds run?

The Italian greyhound can run up to speeds of 25 miles per hour which makes them exceptional contenders in a game of lures. They are also fantastic jumpers and need at least a 6-foot fence to prevent them from climbing away.

The Italian Greyhound is a small dog breed with a big personality. They adore their owners and never want to leave their side. Once you own an IG, you can’t imagine your life without one. Accidents aren’t uncommon around Iggys; therefore, it is important to create a safe environment.