Italian Greyhound
Graceful, affectionate, and surprisingly athletic, the Italian Greyhound is a small sighthound that loves close company. Expect a cozy companion at home and quick bursts of speed outdoors, along with a preference for warm blankets and gentle handling.
How the Italian Greyhound ranks among other dog breeds.
About the Italian Greyhound
The Italian Greyhound is best known for its elegant silhouette and people-focused personality. Many are devoted “shadow dogs” who follow their favorite person from room to room and settle happily on a lap.
They tend to be sensitive to tone and thrive with calm, reward-based training and predictable routines.
Despite the delicate look, this breed can be playful and spirited, especially during a zoomie in a safe space. Italian Greyhounds are often well suited to apartments as long as they get daily walks and a chance to stretch out.
Because they are sighthounds, they may chase squirrels or birds, so secure leashes and fenced areas matter.
History of the Italian Greyhound
Small, greyhound-like dogs have appeared in Mediterranean art and writing since ancient times, and many historians connect the Italian Greyhound to these early companions.
From the classical world through the Roman era, slender sighthounds were prized for quick pursuit and keen eyesight, especially when hunting small, fast game.
Merchants and travelers helped spread these dogs along trade routes, and smaller varieties became popular in homes where space was limited.
Over time, the tiniest dogs shifted from working partners to beloved personal companions, keeping the graceful outline while living mainly indoors.
In Italy, the breed’s identity became closely tied to the courts and city-states of the Renaissance. Noble families kept these small sighthounds as treasured household dogs, and their refined look made them natural subjects for portraits and decorative art.
Because they lived in close quarters with people, temperament mattered as much as appearance; dogs that were gentle, attentive, and comfortable being handled were favored.
This long period of companionship helped shape the Italian Greyhound’s modern reputation as an affectionate lap dog with a watchful, sensitive nature.
As European royal households intermarried and exchanged gifts, the Italian Greyhound traveled beyond Italy and gained admirers in other countries.
They were kept primarily as companions, but their sighthound instincts never fully disappeared, and many still enjoyed chasing moving “lures” or small game in controlled settings.
Selective breeding emphasized elegance and a smaller frame, helping the dog fit into fashionable homes while keeping the distinctive, athletic outline.
The breed’s popularity rose and fell with trends, yet the same qualities kept it in demand: grace, quiet devotion, and an easy-to-carry size.
The rise of organized dog shows in the modern era encouraged more consistent type, and Italian Greyhounds began appearing in a wider range of households.
Different lines sometimes leaned toward extreme refinement, which could make the dogs look delicate, so many breeders worked to balance elegance with sturdier movement.
Like many breeds, their numbers and breeding programs were affected by economic hardship and wartime disruptions, especially in Europe.
Dedicated fanciers maintained small populations, and the Italian Greyhound gradually rebuilt its presence as travel, communication, and pet keeping expanded.
Today’s Italian Greyhound is largely a companion dog, prized for being both a couch cuddler and a playful sprinter. You will still see the sighthound heritage in the breed’s alert gaze, quick acceleration, and strong interest in anything that darts across the yard.
Many owners enjoy low-key canine sports that reward speed and teamwork, and some Italian Greyhounds make gentle therapy visitors in the right setting.
The breed’s story is still centered on closeness, and most thrive when they can share daily routines, warm naps, and quiet conversation with their people.
Physical Characteristics and General Care
The Italian Greyhound has a sleek, fine-boned build with long legs, a narrow waist, and a smooth coat that lies close to the body.
That minimalist coat is easy to maintain, but it also means the breed can feel chilly and may appreciate sweaters or a warm jacket on cold walks.
Skin can be sensitive, so a soft brush or grooming mitt and gentle bathing products are usually better than anything harsh or heavily scented. A simple wipe-down after muddy outings and a quick check for scrapes can help keep a thin-coated dog comfortable.
Because Italian Greyhounds are light and agile, their daily environment matters as much as their exercise routine. Many do best with non-slip floors, ramps or steps to favorite furniture, and supervised play that discourages high, reckless leaps.
Regular nail trims help with traction and reduce accidental snags on blankets, and keeping ears clean and dry supports overall comfort.
Basic dental hygiene can be important for many small breeds; your veterinarian can suggest a routine and products that fit your dog’s needs.
Most Italian Greyhounds enjoy a moderate amount of daily activity that mixes steady movement with short bursts of speed. A brisk walk, indoor games, and occasional off-leash running in a safely enclosed area can meet their needs while keeping the bond strong.
Because they can be quick to chase, practice recall in secure places and use a harness that protects the delicate neck. Training tends to go best when it is upbeat and brief, with plenty of rewards and patience, especially around distractions and new environments.
Coat & Grooming: A quick weekly brush with a soft mitt, plus regular nail trims and gentle dental care, usually keeps the coat and skin in good shape.
Shedding: Low shedding overall, though fine hairs may collect on bedding and upholstery, so a lint roller and light vacuuming go a long way.
Exercise Needs: Moderate daily exercise such as a brisk walk, indoor play, and a short sprint in a safely fenced area suits most Italian Greyhounds.
General Health: Often healthy, but some may be prone to dental buildup, delicate-leg injuries, and occasional joint or eye concerns; routine checkups with your veterinarian help catch issues early.
Expected Lifespan: Typically long-lived for a small breed, with longevity shaped by genetics, lifestyle, and preventive care.
First-Time Owner Tips
Italian Greyhounds can be a wonderful first dog if you like a close, indoor companion and you are comfortable with gentle, consistent training.
They are often sensitive and may startle easily, so a calm home and positive reinforcement usually work better than firm corrections. Think of training as confidence-building: reward curiosity, keep sessions short, and avoid overwhelming crowds until your dog is ready.
House training can take patience, especially in rainy or cold weather, so set a routine, celebrate small wins, and consider a covered potty spot or an indoor backup option.
Plan for safety and steady socialization from day one. Choose a well-fitted harness, practice loose-leash walking, and assume that prey drive may override recall unless you train carefully in low-distraction areas first.
Introduce new people, friendly dogs, and everyday noises at a pace your dog can handle, pairing each experience with treats and praise.
Because the breed can be physically delicate, supervise interactions with young children and larger dogs, and make your home jump-safe with soft landings and blocked-off hazards.
If your Italian Greyhound struggles with alone time, gradual departures and a cozy crate or pen can help prevent bad habits from forming.
- Keep training upbeat and short; many Italian Greyhounds respond best to rewards, not pressure.
- Use a consistent potty schedule and have a weather plan, like a covered outdoor spot or an indoor option.
- Pick a secure harness and practice calm leash skills to manage sudden sighthound bursts.
- Create warm resting areas with soft bedding, and use a sweater or jacket when temperatures drop.
- Protect delicate legs by limiting big jumps, supervising play, and adding traction on slippery floors.
Monthly Costs to Expect
Required costs for an Italian Greyhound usually start with quality food, everyday treats, and basic supplies like waste bags, bedding, and a properly fitted harness.
Even though the breed is small, prices vary widely based on the brand you choose, whether you feed fresh or kibble, and how active your dog is.
Ongoing essentials often include parasite prevention and routine wellness care, and your veterinarian can help you plan what is appropriate for your location and lifestyle.
You may also budget for simple wear items, such as replacement collars, toys, and seasonal outerwear for chilly days.
Optional or variable costs depend on how you prefer to handle grooming, training, and risk management. Many owners do most grooming at home, but you might budget for professional nail trims, occasional baths, or specialty clothing for cold weather.
Training classes, enrichment toys, daycare, and boarding can add up quickly, especially in high-cost areas or during busy travel seasons.
Some people choose pet insurance, while others set aside a monthly savings cushion for unexpected expenses, and either approach can change your overall monthly budget. If you rent, pet fees or deposits may also be part of the bigger cost picture.
Food & Treats: Required: $30-$90 per month, depending on food quality, treats, and activity level.
Grooming: Optional/Variable: $0-$40 per month with at-home care; add nail trims, baths, or a groomer as needed.
Preventatives & Routine Care: Required: $20-$70 per month for parasite prevention and routine care; varies by region and veterinary guidance.
Insurance / Savings: Optional/Variable: $0-$80 per month for insurance or a savings cushion, depending on coverage and risk tolerance.
Training / Enrichment: Optional/Variable: $10-$100 per month for classes, private help, and enrichment; varies by goals and local rates.
Italian Greyhound FAQs
Are Italian Greyhounds good apartment dogs?
Often, yes. Their small size and quiet indoor habits can fit apartment living well, as long as they get daily walks and a chance to run safely. They can be sensitive to noise and cold, so a calm building, a secure harness, and a cozy resting spot make a big difference.
Do Italian Greyhounds shed a lot?
Italian Greyhounds are generally low shedders because of their short, fine coat. You may still notice hair on blankets and furniture, but a quick weekly brush and regular laundering usually keep it manageable.
Are Italian Greyhounds easy to train?
They can learn quickly, but they tend to be sensitive and may dislike repetitive drilling. Short, upbeat sessions with treats and praise often work best. House training may require extra patience in bad weather, so consistency and routine are key.
How much exercise does an Italian Greyhound need?
Most do well with moderate daily exercise, such as a brisk walk and some play that lets them sprint briefly. They also enjoy mental stimulation like food puzzles and simple training games. Safe, enclosed areas are important because chase instincts can kick in fast.
Can Italian Greyhounds live with cats or other small pets?
Sometimes, especially if raised together and introduced thoughtfully. Because the breed is a sighthound, some individuals may be strongly motivated to chase fast-moving animals. Supervision, secure barriers, and gradual training help set everyone up for success.
Do Italian Greyhounds get cold easily?
Many do. Their lean build and short coat offer little insulation, so they often seek warm spots indoors and may appreciate a sweater outside. Limit long, chilly outings, dry them off after wet walks, and provide soft bedding away from drafts.
What health concerns are common in Italian Greyhounds?
Like many small breeds, Italian Greyhounds may be prone to dental issues, and their fine legs can be vulnerable to injuries from jumps or rough play. Some may also experience joint or eye concerns.
Regular wellness visits and good daily care, guided by your veterinarian, can help you stay ahead of problems.