The Italian Greyhound is extremely slender and barely over a foot tall, but has all the grace and sweetness of his taller Greyhound relatives. There is debate as to whether they were originally bred for hunting small game or meant to be simply a companion. In all likelihood, both are true, as they are adaptable to city and country life. The Italian Greyhound’s coat can be any color, except brindle and classic black and tan.
A Look Back
As with many ancient breeds, their depiction in art and architecture provides insight into their origin. Miniature greyhounds appear in ancient decorative arts of the Mediterranean countries dating back 2000 years. During the Renaissance, Italian noblemen adopted the breed as their own and it became known as the Italian Greyhound. The breed made its way to England in the seventeenth century, gaining steadily in popularity.
As with many ancient breeds, their depiction in art and architecture provides insight into their origin. Miniature greyhounds appear in ancient decorative arts of the Mediterranean countries dating back 2000 years. During the Renaissance, Italian noblemen adopted the breed as their own and it became known as the Italian Greyhound. The breed made its way to England in the seventeenth century, gaining steadily in popularity.
Right Breed for You?
Playful and intelligent, the Italian Greyhound is generally easy to train and prefers to spend most of his time with his owner. They like attention and affection, and are a peaceful, gentle friend to adults and children. Italian Greyhounds are an active breed that loves to run and play and requires daily walks. Their small size makes them ideal for an apartment and his short, smooth as satin coat makes him one of the easiest breeds to groom.
Playful and intelligent, the Italian Greyhound is generally easy to train and prefers to spend most of his time with his owner. They like attention and affection, and are a peaceful, gentle friend to adults and children. Italian Greyhounds are an active breed that loves to run and play and requires daily walks. Their small size makes them ideal for an apartment and his short, smooth as satin coat makes him one of the easiest breeds to groom.
Source: American Kennel Club - www.akc.org
Grooming
General: Italian Greyhounds are a short flat coated breed that sheds throughout the year, even in the winter time. Grooming is suggested for 4 – 8 week intervals to clean ears, clip nails, check anal glands and insure the coat and skin are in healthy condition.
Eyes: Eyes should be alert and bright. Use Optisoothe during the bath to flush any foreign objects.
Ears: Monthly ear cleaning with Ear Care is advised to be sure no ear problems that might need vet attention arise. Only clean as far as you can see, never further.
Bathing: Italian Greyhounds require 2 baths when you bathe them. The first bath should be a general bath, any of our Classic Care or Professional Care products are perfect. If your Italian Greyhound has allergies or sensitive skin we would suggest a Hypo Allergenic Coconut Shampoo and follow it with a medicated shampoo depending on your dogs needs. If your Italian Greyhound has normal skin then the second bath you would want to pick one of our wonderful Scent Renewal shampoos and conditioners. Follow the bath with a conditioner or Luxury Remoisturizer to keep the coat in great shape.
Paws. Paw Balm should be used weekly as well, paw pads that are soft and pliable are less likely to dry and crack
Coat Care: Use Aloe Hydrating Spray between baths to control flaking and dandruff, especially in dry conditions.
Show Dog Tips: Show Style’s Silky Show Shampoo and Silky Show Conditioner in conjunction with Bright White Shampoo will add shine and make the whites pop. Use Show Style High Sheen Spray right before entering the show ring will add the little extra shine without any oily residue.
Tools: A shedding blade can be used to pull out the dead coat. Short coated breeds shed all year around and so they constantly need to be brushed.
