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Italian Greyhound Family: sighthound,
Southern (sighthound)
Area of Origin: Egypt, Italy
Date of Origin: ancient times
Original Function: lap dog
Today's Function: companion
Avg Size of male: Height: 13-15 Weight: 7-14
Avg Size of Female: Height: 13-15 Weight: 7-14
Other Name: piccolo Levrieve Italiani
History
The Italian greyhound has been around for many centuries, but exactly
how and when this miniaturized greyhound was developed has been lost in
time. Evidence of dogs resembling the Italian greyhound can be found in
art dating nearly 2,000 years ago from Turkey, Greece and other areas
around the Mediterranean. By the Middle Ages, miniaturized greyhounds
could be found throughout southern Europe, but they found special favor
with Italian courtiers. The breed came to England in the 17th century,
quickly becoming as popular with nobility there as they had been in
their Italian homeland. In 1820, the Italian greyhound was one of only
two toy breeds mentioned in a book about dogs. The Italian greyhound
continued to find favor, reaching its peak during the reign of Queen
Victoria. After that time, its numbers declined, however, and the breed
dwindled to such an extent that it almost disappeared in England after
World War II. One possible reason for its decline was a degradation in
quality, because dogs were bred for tiny size, often without regard to
soundness and health. Fortunately, Italian greyhounds had come to
America in the late 1800s, and even though their numbers were small,
these dogs were of high quality. They, along with other imports, helped
revive the breed in Europe. Since then, the Italian greyhound has risen
gradually in popularity and is now enjoying a second renaissance.
Temperament
A sighthound in a small package, the Italian greyhound shares its larger
relatives' characteristics. It loves to run and chase. It is extremely
gentle and sensitive. Reserved, often timid, with strangers, it is
devoted to its family and is good with children, and other dogs and
pets. However, it can be easily injured by boisterous children and
larger dogs.
Upkeep
The Italian greyhound likes a daily romp outdoors, but it hates the
cold. Its exercise needs are best met with a good walk on leash or even
a rollicking game indoors. It also likes to stretch out and sprint in a
fenced area. This breed cannot live outdoors. Care of the fine short
hair is minimal, consisting only of occasional brushing to remove dead
hair. Regular brushing of the teeth is important in this breed.
Health
• Major concerns: peridontal disease
• Minor concerns: epilepsy, leg fractures, patellar luxation, PRA
• Occasionally seen: none
• Suggested tests: knee, eye
• Life span: 12 – 15 years
• Note: The breed is susceptible to leg and tail fractures. It shares
the sighthound sensitivity to anesthesia and barbituates.
Form and Function
Essentially a slender miniature greyhound, the Italian greyhound is
exceptionally elegant and graceful. It embodies the same qualities that
enable the full-sized greyhound to run at top speed using the
double-suspension gallop: a curvaceous outline with a slight arch over
the loin and good rear angulation. Its gait is high-stepping and free.
The coat is short and glossy, like satin.
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