The Italian
Greyhound is meant for a quiet apartment
or home. She does not do well with loud,
rough children as her bones can be
brittle as a puppy and she is delicate
in both body and mind. She is a good
watch dog and loves her family. She can
do well with other respectful dogs and
animals, especially if she is socialized
with them at an early age. If she is
housed with other dogs, be aware that
they should not be large dogs. She is a
climber and may even climb out of a
fenced enclosure. Keep her controlled
when outside as she can run very fast
and can be about impossible to catch if
she does not want to be.
*Approximate Adult Size. The approximate
adult size (two years old or older) of
the Italian Greyhound is 12 to 15 inches
to the withers (highest point of the
shoulder) and 6 to 10 pounds. There is a
under 8 pound class and an over 8 pound
class. 
*Special Health Considerations.
Most dog breeds have certain inherited
health problems associated with that
specific breed and the Italian Greyhound
is no exception. Although they are a
healthy breed, be on the look out for
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (inherited
disease of theretina that
can cause vision loss and blindness),
slipped stifle and epilepsy (common in
dogs). Additionally, Italian Greyhound
puppies under eighteen months old are
prone to broken legs due to fragile
developing bones. This disease list is
an informative guideline only. Other
diseases may also be significant
threats, please contact your
veterinarian for a complete list.
She should visit the veterinarian
several times in the first year for
shots, boosters and check up. Then, as
an adult, she should visit the
veterinarian yearly for shots and check
up. As she gets older, six years and on,
she should visit the veterinarian twice
a year for check ups and shots.
Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.
*Grooming. The Italian Greyhound has a
short, fine coat that is like satin to
the touch. She just needs an occasional
rub down with a soft cloth. When she
needs a rare bath, be sure that she is
dried properly and kept warm.
Her teeth should be brushed at least
twice a week with toothpaste and
toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing
removes the accumulation of plaque and
tartar which can cause cavities (rarely)
and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal
disease can lead to pain,
loss of teeth, bad breath and other
serious disease.
Her toenails may
need to be examined for growth and
clipped regularly. The toenails of the
rear feet grow slower than the toenails
of the front feet. Generally a
guillotine type trimmer is the best for
this chore and competent instructions to
accomplish this can be found on the net.
*Life Span. The Italian Greyhound can
live between 14 and 16 years with proper
nutrition, medical care and excellent
living conditions.
*History. The Italian Greyhound comes
from Italy. They are a small sight hound
and were bred as pets. They were first
registered by the American Kennel
Association in 1886.
Some Registries:
*Italian Greyhound Club of America
*UKC United Kennel Club
*NKC National Kennel Club
*CKC Continental Kennel Club
*APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc.
*AKC American Kennel Club
*FCI Federation Cynologique
Internationale
*NZKC New Zealand Kennel Club
*KCGB = Kennel Club of Great Britain
*ANKC = Australian National Kennel Club
*ACR = American Canine Registry
Litter Size: 3 to 5 Italian Greyhound
puppies.
Category: Toy
*SPECIAL GOOD POINTS
They barely shed.
Not a spoiled brat.
Generally has good manners.
Good watch dog.
*SPECIAL BAD POINTS
Can be a chore to housebreak.
Can be destructive, especially if left
alone.
Does not like criticism.
Does not like it cold.
Poor guard dog.
*Other Names Known By: Piccolo Levrieri
Italiani
*Every dog is an individual so not
everything in this information may be
correct for your dog. This information
is meant as a good faith guideline only.
Mitch Endick is a short article writer, editor and website developer for the popular pet site petpages.com. http://www.petpages.com/ is a pet information site with free pet ads, dog classifieds, and puppy for sale info Petpages.com also offers information on cats, fish, reptiles, birds, ferrets, rabbits, mice and even pet bugs. Article Source.
