Italian Greyhound

Origins and History

The Italian Greyhound (Italiano Cane Corso) traces its roots to ancient Roman times, where depictions of small, sighthound-type dogs appear on mosaics and frescoes. The modern breed was refined in Italy during the Renaissance as a companion and fashion accessory for aristocracy. By the early 19th century the breed had spread to England and the United States, where it was recognized by the Kennel Club (1901) and the American Kennel Club (1909). The Italian Greyhound is classified in the Toy Group for its diminutive size, yet it retains the elegant, aerodynamic form of larger sighthounds.

General Characteristics

• Size and build: a slender, graceful hound with a deep chest, long neck, and fine, tapered limbs.
• Temperament highlights: affectionate, highly sensitive, and eager to please, but can be shy with strangers and possess a strong prey drive.
• Primary breed purpose: originally a lap companion and fashionable pet; today it excels in conformation showing and occasional lure coursing.

Physical Specifications

• Height: Males 13‑15 inches (33‑38 cm); Females 12‑14 inches (31‑36 cm) at the withers.
• Weight: 7‑14 lb (3‑6 kg), proportionate to height and build.

Coat and Color

• Coat: short, smooth, fine‑textured, lying close to the body; no undercoat.
• Accepted colors (per FCI and AKC): solid black, blue, fawn, red, ivory, white, and white with black, blue, or fawn markings. Any combination of the above is permissible, provided the base color is clear and the markings are well‑defined.

Temperament Considerations

Italian Greyhounds are highly responsive to gentle, positive reinforcement but can become fearful if subjected to harsh corrections. Their delicate bone structure makes them prone to injury, so training should avoid high‑impact activities.

Training Essentials

• Socialization requirements: early exposure to a variety of people, sounds, and environments to prevent timidity.
• Exercise needs: short, frequent bursts of play (15‑20 minutes) several times daily; avoid prolonged running on hard surfaces.
• Common training challenges: sensitivity to tone, strong prey drive, and a tendency to become bored quickly; keep sessions brief and varied.

Daily Grooming

• Brushing frequency and tools: soft‑bristle brush or grooming glove once a day to remove loose hair and stimulate skin oils.
• Bathing requirements: bathe only when necessary (approximately every 4‑6 weeks) using a mild, pH‑balanced dog shampoo.
• Nail and dental care: trim nails weekly or as needed; brush teeth at least 2‑3 times per week and schedule professional cleanings annually.

Show Preparation

• Pre‑show grooming timeline: bathe 24‑48 hours before the ring, brush coat to a sleek finish, trim nails to a uniform length, and clean ears and teeth.
• Ring presentation tips: ensure the coat lies flat without stray hairs, maintain a balanced stance, and use a lightweight show lead to allow the dog to move freely while highlighting its elegant line.

Common Health Issues

• Dental overcrowding and early tooth loss – regular dental care is essential.
• Patellar luxation – screening by a veterinarian and careful handling of joints.
• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) – DNA testing recommended for breeding stock.
• Cardiac murmurs and congenital heart disease – annual cardiac examinations.
• Bone fragility and fractures – avoid high‑impact activities and provide soft bedding.

General Care

• Exercise requirements: moderate daily activity with emphasis on short, controlled runs; protect paws on hot or icy surfaces.
• Nutritional needs: high‑quality, small‑breed formulated diet with appropriate levels of calcium and DHA for bone and eye health.
• Lifespan considerations: average 12‑15 years; regular veterinary check‑ups, weight management, and preventive health screening contribute to longevity.