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Breed Information Centre

Italian Greyhound

Illustration of Italian Greyhound

A GRACEFUL, RACY LITTLE DOG WHICH claims a background dating back to the days of Pompeii, he found his way to Britain in the seventeenth century. Evidence that small hounds of this type existed can be found in the ancient tombs of Egypt but it was in the Italy of the Romans that the Italian Greyhound was bred to perfection. It is probable that this was the first breed ever to be developed as a pet and a lap dog.

Cheerful, brave and courageous, with exquisitely delicate lines, he has a gentle and loving nature. He is comfort-loving, and will happily wrap himself in a blanket.

Daily grooming is easily carried out with a velvet pad, or a piece of silk. Coat colours come in a particularly attractive range from all shades of gold and blue to particolour and pied.

Ideal as a pet for town, he is still a dog that likes plenty of exercise, and can run with the best over fields. He has a Dresden-¬like quality, but is by no means delicate.

 
Breed Group
Toy
Vulnerable Breed
No
Size
Small
How much exercise?
About 1 hour per day
Length of coat
Short
How much grooming?
Once a week
Supposedly sheds?*
Yes
Town or Country
Either
Type of home
Flat, Small or Large House
Minimum Garden Size
Small/Medium
* If you are asthmatic or have an allergy, you should consult your medical advisor before considering obtaining a dog. More information can also be found on the Kennel Club website.
 

The Toy Breed Group

Small companion or lap dogs. Many of the Toy breeds were bred for this capacity although some have been placed into this category due to their size. They should have friendly personalities and love attention. They do not need a large amount of exercise and some can be finicky eaters.