Description: The Italian Greyhound is a very small sighthound. This is a lightly built, graceful little dog that will be 12 to 15 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 7 and 14 pounds. The long, narrow head, long neck, deep chest, and long legs all mark this as a dog in the Greyhound family. The coat of this dog is short and comes in a variety of colors including cream, red, black, fawn, or grey, sometimes with white added. The Italian Greyhound will live for 12 to 15 years on average. It is also called the IG or Piccolo Levrieve Italiani.

History: Mummies from Ancient Egypt have been found that contain a dog very similar to the Italian Greyhound. The Italian Greyhound was also known in Ancient Rome and was very popular during the Renaissance in Italy. This dog has been used in hunting, often in collaboration with falcons. When early breeders tried to make the Italian Greyhound even smaller than it is, the results were extremely bad, with many deformed dogs being born. The breed almost died out, but was rescued by dedicated breeders who restored the dog.

Temperament: The character of the Italian Greyhound is excellent for a companion dog. This dog is very affectionate and desirous of attention and wants to be around its humans at all times. Unless it is socialized with other people and animals while it is young, however, it can be somewhat timid. The Italian Greyhound does very well with children, but because of the dog's fragile build, it is probably advisable to keep very small children away from it so that they do not inadvertently injure it. This is a hunting dog, and it will chase small game if given the chance.

Health Issues: One of the biggest problems with the Italian Greyhound is that the puppies are quite delicate and fragile. Even jumping off furniture can sometimes break a leg. Extra care must be taken to protect the young dog from harm, but once the dog is about 18 months old it will be more sturdy. This breed can suffer from progressive retinal atrophy and epilepsy. The kneecap can slip, also. The IG is not able to tolerate cold, so should be warmly dressed when taken outside in cooler weather.

Grooming: The Italian Greyhound does not need to have its short coat groomed intensively. An occasional brushing or wiping with a chamois cloth will keep the dog looking good. If a bath is absolutely necessary, be sure to dry and warm the dog afterwards so that it does not catch a chill. The IG does not shed very much, and could be considered hypoallergenic.

Living Condition: This is a purely indoor dog. The Italian Greyhound will be fine in an apartment, but will definitely appreciate a walk every day. It will want to be around its human friends as much as possible and can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for too long. If possible, let the IG have an unrestricted gallop from time to time, a chance to really stretch out its legs and body. Just make sure that the spot chosen for this is safe, a fenced yard probably being the best.