Italian Greyhound — Breed Profile
"Alert, playful, affectionate, elegant, spirited, sensitive"
Tiny speed demon
At a Glance
Breed Traits
Best For
Apartment dwellers, active individuals, families with older children, couch companions with energy to spare, people seeking a devoted lapdog with personality
Not Ideal For
Families with very young children, homes without secure fencing for prey drive, owners unable to handle fragility concerns, sedentary lifestyles, cold climates, those seeking an independent dog
Health Considerations
Patellar luxation, heart murmurs, dental issues, leg fractures, hypothyroidism, epilepsy
Estimated annual vet cost: $500-$1,200
Breed History
Descended from ancient Egyptian and Roman sighthounds; bred in Italy during the Renaissance as a miniature hunting dog and companion for Italian nobility; refined over centuries to the elegant toy breed recognized today
Fun Facts
- True miniature greyhound with full sighthound instincts despite toy size
- Can reach speeds of 25+ mph despite weighing under 15 pounds
- Often needs sweaters and coats due to thin coat and low body fat
- Known for 'Italian Greyhound lean' - standing on hind legs when excited
- Originally favored by Italian and European nobility as status symbols and lap warmers
Famous Italian Greyhounds
Bugsy (Paris Hilton's dog), various Italian nobility companions