Italian Greyhound Dog Breed

- Other names:
- Piccolo Levriero Italiano
A fairly popular and well-known breed, the Italian Greyhound is the perfect choice for those wanting a highly affectionate lap dog. Consider it a bonus that they are as elegant in appearance as the standard Greyhound, only smaller. Although it originated in the ancient Greek and Turkish lands, it was most popular in Italy and is therefore referred to as the "Italian Greyhound" or "piccolo Levrieve italiani". These dogs are well acknowledged by many kennel clubs so a reputable breeder shouldn't be hard to find. This is an indoor dog that prefers to be with its owner constantly.
Italian Greyhounds are low maintenance: low grooming requirements, medium energy, and fairly easy to train. As an owner, you must be able to keep an eye on them; they are very athletic, can jump high and squeeze through small areas. Italian Greyhounds are very friendly dogs to children, other pets, and their frequent acquaintances, but to strangers they may be timid and reserved. Large high energy dogs and children that do not know how to handle pets with gentleness should be highly supervised with these dogs, as their bones are highly susceptible of fractures. Although these are relatively healthy dogs, they are still finely purebred and owners should familiarize themselves with the many possible health issues for this breed from periodontal disease to epilepsy. Italian Greyhounds generally live 12-15 years and it is not uncommon to see them surpass that.