AboutIGs

About Italian Greyhounds

Smallest of the Sighthounds, the Italian Greyhound is believed to have originated more than 2,000 years ago in the area now known as Greece and Turkey. Thought to be orignally developed as a companion and small vermin hunter, these elegant and loving little hounds were found throughout southern Europe by the Middle Ages and became a favorite of the Italians in the 16th century. Their grace and beauty made them a favorite subject in paintings and the pampered pets of royalty.

Modern Italian Greyhounds continue to charm their way onto many sofas and beds but also enjoy participating in conformation competition as well as performance events like Obedience, Agility and Lure Coursing. Their small size and gentle nature contribute to their success as Therapy Dogs. Training can sometimes be a challenge with these intelligent little dogs but with patience and more patience, IGs can be willing partners in almost any activity.

First time IG owners should be warned that all the stories they have heard about the difficulty in housetraining IGs are true. It can be a very long , though not impossible, process. There are some health issues in the breed and the most common injury seems to be fractures of those long, thin, front legs. IG puppies really do require supervision because of their fearless climbing onto places they shouldn't and leaping off in an uncontrolled way that can result in leg breaks. Good nutrition and plenty of structured exercise, (walk your dog on a leash), as well as supervised free play time will help to avoid leg breaks and other injuries.

IG grooming is fairly simple. A soft bristle brush should be used daily to remove loose hair and and keep the skin in good condition. Overbathing can dry the skin and cause skin problems. Nails should be done at least weekly. We use a dremel tool to grind the nails. Extra care and attention are needed to keep IG teeth and gums healthy. Even with weekly brushing and professional dental cleaning at least yearly some IGs may begin to lose teeth at a very early age.

IG are very loyal and love the companionship of humans and other dogs. They have functioned for centuries as companions and excel at that occupation. Working couples considering an IG may want to look into hiring a dog walker to visit the dog during the day. Many IG owners have multiple dogs so that they can keep each other company, but there is really no substitue for people spending time with their pets. It is difficult to raise a puppy, train a puppy and enjoy a puppy if you are never at home with the puppy.

While we find our Italian Greyhounds to be the best companions, they may not be the right dog for you. Please be sure that you have done your research, gotten to know some IGs and breeders in person before you decide this is the pet you want to share your life with for the next 12 or more years.