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Italian Greyhound

Italian Greyhound

Origin

🇮🇹

Italy

Size

Small Breed

Ideal Space

Apartment

Ideal Weather

15Âş-25ÂşC

Avg Monthly Expenses

â‚ą2,200

Basic Lifestyle

â‚ą3,750

Premium Lifestyle

Top 5 Traits

Athletic

Playful

Intelligent

Loyal

Disciplined

Italian Greyhound

Quick Information

The Italian Greyhound is a graceful and slender breed with an elegant appearance. Originating from Italy, this breed has been cherished for centuries as a companion and show dog. Standing at about 13-15 inches tall, it is one of the smallest of the greyhound family. Its short, fine coat is easy to care for and comes in a variety of colors, including black, blue, fawn, and more. Despite its delicate appearance, the Italian Greyhound is known for its robust health and longevity, often living up to 15 years with proper care.


This breed is particularly well-suited for apartment living or smaller homes due to its low maintenance needs and moderate exercise requirements. It thrives in moderate temperatures and can be sensitive to extreme cold or heat, often requiring a doggy sweater in cooler weather. The Italian Greyhound’s friendly and affectionate nature makes it an excellent companion for families and individuals alike. It is intelligent and quick to learn, making training relatively straightforward.


Though small in size, the Italian Greyhound has a lively personality. It is playful and energetic, enjoying games and short bursts of activity. It forms strong bonds with its family and can be somewhat reserved around strangers. While it is generally not aggressive, it can be a bit cautious, making early socialization important. Its low grooming needs and minimal shedding further add to its appeal as a companion dog.

 

Characteristics

Barking

Quiet

Loud

Temperament with Kids

Aggressive

Friendly

Playfulness

Silent

Very Playful

Friendliness

Not Friendly

Super Friendly

Compatibility with other dogs

Aggressive

Friendly

Need for attention

Independent

Very Needy

Monthly Expenses

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Nutrition

Monthly Food Expenses

â‚ą 1,200 - â‚ą 1,800

Calories per day

Puppies: 600 kcal

Adults: 500 kcal

Essential Nutrients

Protein

Fats

Carbohydrates

Fibre

Vitamins

Minerals

List of foods

Chicken

Dry Dog Food

Fresh Meat

Vegetables

Fruits

The Italian Greyhound requires a balanced diet that supports its small size and energetic nature. High-quality proteins are crucial for maintaining muscle mass and overall health. Proteins from sources like chicken, fresh meat, and fish should be a major part of their diet, constituting around 30% of their daily intake. Fats, which should make up about 20% of their diet, are essential for energy and coat health. Carbohydrates from vegetables and fruits provide the necessary energy and fiber, supporting digestive health and maintaining overall vitality.


Home-made meals can be a great addition to the diet, ensuring that the Italian Greyhound gets fresh and wholesome ingredients. Regularly feeding them dry dog food can help maintain dental health and provide a balanced diet with added vitamins and minerals. Since they have a small stomach capacity, it's essential to monitor portion sizes and ensure that their caloric intake meets their energy needs without leading to obesity.


Note: These are general guidelines. Consult a veterinarian to determine the specific dietary needs of your dog.

 

Breakdown of Macro-nutrients

Selecting Good Quality Food

For the Italian Greyhound, quality food is paramount to ensure they stay healthy and active. High-quality dry dog food that contains a high percentage of animal-based proteins and healthy fats is ideal. Look for options that list meat or fish as the primary ingredient and are free from artificial additives and fillers. This ensures that the dog receives the necessary nutrients without unnecessary and potentially harmful ingredients.


Home-made meals can complement their diet by providing variety and fresh ingredients. A balanced home-made meal should include lean proteins, vegetables, and some fruits, ensuring a broad spectrum of essential nutrients. Careful preparation is needed to avoid using ingredients that may be harmful to dogs, such as onions or garlic. Consulting with a veterinarian for tailored meal plans can help meet the specific nutritional needs of your Italian Greyhound.

 

Never feed these foods to Italian Greyhound

Avoid anything with these ingredients

Alcohol

Almonds

Avocados

Cherries

Cinnamon

Coffee / Tea

Milk Products

Lemon

Grapes

Garlic

Dairy

Onions

Salt

Sugar

Mushrooms

For the Italian Greyhound, it's important to avoid feeding ingredients or foods that can cause health issues. Avoid any foods that are high in fat or contain excessive carbohydrates, as this can lead to weight gain and related health problems. Additionally, steer clear of ingredients that are commonly known to be toxic to dogs, such as onions, garlic, and grapes, which can cause serious health complications.


Processed foods or those with artificial additives and preservatives should also be avoided. These ingredients can lead to digestive issues and may lack the nutritional quality needed for optimal health. Opting for whole, natural foods and high-quality dog food will help maintain the well-being of your Italian Greyhound and support its energetic and playful nature.

 
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Health

Avg Monthly Expenses

â‚ą 300 - â‚ą 750

Common Health Issues

Bloat

Heartworm

Canine Influenza

Canine distemper

Hip Dysplasia

Parvovirus

Parasites

Well being

Exercise

Bonding

Games

Socialization

Agility Training

Energy Level

Medium

Exercise routine

30 - 45 minutes

Recognising Stress

Changes in appetite

Excessive Barking

Pacing

Excessive Panting

Reluctance to move

Increased laziness

Medical Care

The Italian Greyhound is generally a healthy breed, but it is prone to certain health issues due to its slender build and genetic predispositions. Hip dysplasia and heartworm are notable concerns, particularly because of their active lifestyle and potential exposure to parasites. Bloat, or gastric torsion, is a risk due to their deep chest, and regular feeding routines and monitoring can help mitigate this risk. Respiratory infections such as kennel cough and distemper are also concerns, especially if they are exposed to other dogs frequently.


To maintain their health, it's essential to provide regular exercise and monitor their weight, as obesity can exacerbate joint problems and other health issues. Routine veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, and preventive measures against parasites are crucial for the Italian Greyhound. Their delicate build also makes them susceptible to injuries, so gentle play and careful handling are advised.

 

Vaccination details

Growth Stage

Core Vaccines

6-8 Weeks

Distemper, Parvovirus, Adenovirus (DHPP)

10-12 Weeks

DHPP Booster

14-16 Weeks

Rabies

16-20 Weeks

DHPP Booster

Recommendations to care for senior Italian Greyhound dogs

As Italian Greyhounds age, their care needs shift to accommodate their changing health status. Senior Italian Greyhounds benefit greatly from regular veterinary check-ups to monitor for age-related issues such as arthritis, dental problems, and changes in vision or hearing. Adjusting their diet to lower calorie and easier-to-digest foods can help manage weight and support overall health. Regular exercise should continue, but it should be adjusted to match their energy levels and physical capabilities. Gentle activities like short walks and light play are ideal to keep them active without causing strain.


Additionally, maintaining a comfortable living environment is essential for senior Italian Greyhounds. Ensure they have a warm, cushioned place to rest, as they may be more sensitive to cold weather and joint discomfort. Regular grooming, including dental care, can also help prevent issues commonly seen in older dogs. By providing attentive care and making necessary adjustments to their routine, you can help ensure a high quality of life for your aging Italian Greyhound.


Important Note: This information is for general guidance only. Always consult a qualified veterinarian for personalized advice.

 
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Grooming

Avg Monthly Expenses

â‚ą 700 - â‚ą 1,200

Shedding Level

Low Shedding

Hygienic Checklist

Bathing

Brushing

Ear Cleaning

Nail Trimming

Teeth Care

Eye Care

Benefits of Grooming

Cleanliness

Low Shedding

Odourless

Prevents Bad Breath

Prevents infections

Quality of life

Grooming for Italian Greyhounds is relatively straightforward due to their short coat and minimal shedding. Regular brushing with a soft-bristle brush or grooming mitt helps remove loose fur and distribute natural oils, keeping their coat shiny and healthy. Bathing should be done as needed to keep their skin clean and free of odor. Pay special attention to their ears, as Italian Greyhounds can be prone to wax buildup and infections. Trim their nails regularly to prevent overgrowth and maintain good foot health. Additionally, dental care is essential to prevent dental issues, so consider brushing their teeth regularly or providing dental chews to promote oral hygiene. Overall, consistent grooming practices contribute to the well-being and appearance of Italian Greyhounds, ensuring they look and feel their best.

 
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Adopt or Shop: The choice is yours!

Cost of buying

â‚ą 30,000 - â‚ą 80,000

Buying or adopting are the two main possibilities if you're thinking about getting a Italian Greyhound for your house.


Buying: Selecting a reliable breeder is crucial when purchasing a pet. Make sure the breeder gives the dogs the care they need and adheres to moral breeding procedures.


To confirm the dog's health and pedigree, request health certificates and lineage documentation.


Cost of a Italian Greyhound depends on a number of variables including ancestry, potential for show quality, and breeder reputation.


Adopting: Offering a needy pet a loving home through adoption is a fantastic choice. See if any breed-specific rescues, local animal shelters, or rescue organizations have a Italian Greyhound up for adoption.


Vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and initial medical care are usually included in adoption fees. These charges differ, but they are typically less than what it would cost to purchase from a breeder.

 

Prerequisites to pet a Italian Greyhound

Access to Veterinary

Appropriate Climate

Lifestyle Compatibility

Financial Capability

Space and Environment

Now that you know what it takes to raise a Italian Greyhound, are you ready to take the next step to pet one?

Research: Do a thorough review of the traits, requirements, and possible health problems of the breed. Ensure that the Italian Greyhound breed is a good fit for your lifestyle.


Find Reputable Sources: When purchasing from breeders, look out for trustworthy breeders who have an emphasis on the temperament and well-being of the dogs. If you're thinking about adopting, check out the local rescue or animal shelters.


Visit the Breeder/Adoption Center: Make plans to meet the dogs or pups by scheduling a visit to the breeder or adoption center. Inquire about their health, immunization history, and socializing while keeping an eye on their living conditions.


Ask for documentation: Ask the breeder for vaccination records, health certificates, and any other relevant paperwork. If the dog is being adopted, find out about its past, present health, and behavior.


Prepare your home: Create a safe and comfortable space for your dog. Prepare your house for a puppy if you're adopting a young dog. Ensure you have the necessary supplies, including food, bowls, a bed, and grooming tools.

 

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do Italian Greyhounds have a strong prey drive?

Yes, Italian Greyhounds have a natural instinct to chase small animals due to their sighthound heritage. It's important to keep them on a leash or in a securely fenced area when outdoors to prevent them from running off after small animals.

How do Italian Greyhounds fare in hot climates?

Italian Greyhounds are sensitive to extreme temperatures, including heat. It's essential to provide them with shade, plenty of water, and avoid exposing them to high temperatures for prolonged periods. Limiting outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day is also recommended.

Do Italian Greyhounds require a lot of grooming?

Italian Greyhounds have short coats that require minimal grooming. Regular brushing with a soft-bristle brush helps to remove loose hair and keep their coat shiny. Additionally, occasional baths and nail trimming are necessary to maintain their overall hygiene.

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