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The Full Italian Greyhound Description

The Italian Greyhound is a sporty little dog. He prances lightly in play and keeps his sense of fun throughout his life, preferring to spend most of his time with his owner. He likes attention and affection, and is a peaceful, gentle friend.

Did you know?

The Italian Greyhound is the smallest of the family of gazehounds (dogs that hunt by sight). The breed is believed to have originated more than 2,000 years ago in the Mediterranean basin, possibly in the countries now known as Greece and Turkey.
The breed was a favorite of various royal families of Europe including the consort of England's James I, Anne of Denmark; Mary Beatrice d'Este of Modena, the Italian consort of James II; Frederick the Great of Prussia; Catherine the Great of Russia and Queen Victoria.

So you want to own a Italian Greyhound?

The coat requires very little grooming. It is virtually odorless and sheds very little.
Though they give the impression of fragility, the Italian Greyhound is a very hardy breed.
They adapt to most households and enjoy the company of older children and other pets.

Indicative Breed Standard

General Appearance

A greyhound in miniature, more slender in all proportions.

Characteristics

Elegant, graceful and quick moving.

Temperament

Intelligent, affectionate and vivacious; may appear aloof.

Head and Skull

Skull long, flat and narrow, slight stop. Muzzle fine and long. Nose dark in colour.

Eyes

Rather large, bright; full of expression.

Ears

Rose-shaped, placed well back, soft and fine, not pricked.

Mouth

Jaws strong, with a perfect, regular and complete scissor bite, i.e. upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws. Teeth even.

Neck

Long, gracefully arched.

Forequarters

Shoulders long and sloping. Legs straight; well set under shoulders; fine, strong bone and pasterns.

Body

Chest deep and narrow. Good length of rib and brisket. Back slightly arched over loin.

Hindquarters

Long, well muscled thigh: hind legs parallel when viewed from behind; well bent stifle, hocks well let down.

Tail

Low-set, long, fine, carried low.

Gait/Movement

High-stepping and free action. Front and hindlegs to move forward in a straight line with propulsion from behind.

Coat

Skin fine and supple. Hair, short, fine and glossy.

Colour

Black, blue, cream, fawn, red, white, or any of these colours broken with white. White dogs may be broken with one of these colours. Black or blue with tan markings, or brindle not acceptable.

Size

Ideal Height: 32-38cms (12½-15 ins) at withers. Ideal Weight 3.6-4.5 kgs (8-10 lbs). Overall type and elegance essential.