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Italian Greyhound

Italian Greyhound is a toy breed from Italy also known as Piccolo Levriero Italiano.

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Italian Greyhound

Breed overview

Italian Greyhound is a toy breed from Italy also known as Piccolo Levriero Italiano.

A miniature sighthound, the smallest of the Greyhound family, dating back over 2,000 years to the ancient Mediterranean (popular in Renaissance Italy as a lapdog of nobles).

People looking into Italian Greyhound usually prepare for Moderate exercise needs, Low grooming needs, 7–14 lbs • 13–15 in.

Piccolo Levriero Italiano

History and origin

Italian Greyhound is tied to originating from Italy, specifically Mediterranean region, with sources often placing its development around 500 BCE.

Italian Greyhound is described here as placed in the Toy group and marked as an established breed.

A miniature sighthound, the smallest of the Greyhound family, dating back over 2,000 years to the ancient Mediterranean (popular in Renaissance Italy as a lapdog of nobles).

Browse dog breeds from Italy Browse more Toy breeds

Quick facts

Breed group
Toy
Size
Toy
Origin country
Italy
Region
Mediterranean region
Origin year
500 BCE
Weight
7–14 lbs
Height
13–15 in
Lifespan
13–15 years
Breed status
Established

Traits and day-to-day fit

Energy level
3 / 5
Trainability
3 / 5
Good with children
3 / 5
Shedding level
2 / 5
Barking tendency
3 / 5
Moderate exercise needsLow grooming needsChildren score: 3/5Trainability: 3/5

Coat and classification

Italian Greyhound is grouped here with these coat and texture descriptors.

ShortSmoothFine

Italian Greyhound is also listed as recognized by these kennel-club organizations.

Recognized by AKCRecognized by FCIRecognized by CKCRecognized by KCRecognized by KCA

Appearance and build

  • Miniature greyhound appearance
  • Very fine-boned and slender
  • Sleek, glossy short coat
  • High-stepping gait

What this breed is known for

  • A miniature sighthound, the smallest of the Greyhound family, dating back over 2,000 years to the ancient Mediterranean (popular in Renaissance Italy as a lapdog of nobles).
  • Italian Greyhounds have the same elegant, aerodynamic build as Greyhounds, just in a tiny package. They are fine-boned, with a short coat that comes in many colors.
  • Affectionate and gentle, IGs love comfort and attention. They are fast sprinters but also content to snuggle under blankets.

Health and care notes

Italian Greyhound is noted here for Moderate exercise needs and Low grooming needs.

  • Bone Fractures
  • Dental Problems
  • Epilepsy
  • Progressive Retinal Atrophy

Coat details: Short, Smooth, Fine

These are informational breed-guide notes, not veterinary advice.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the Italian Greyhound come from?

Italian Greyhound is closely associated with Italy, especially Mediterranean region in the sources used for this page.

How big does a Italian Greyhound get?

Typical size details for Italian Greyhound on this page are 7–14 lbs, 13–15 in, 13–15 years.

What is the Italian Greyhound known for?

A miniature sighthound, the smallest of the Greyhound family, dating back over 2,000 years to the ancient Mediterranean (popular in Renaissance Italy as a lapdog of nobles).

Sources and citations

References below include kennel-club profiles, breed standards, and supporting background links for deeper reading.
  1. American Kennel Club breed profile
    American Kennel Club
  2. Royal Kennel Club breed profile
    The Royal Kennel Club
  3. Royal Kennel Club breed standard
    The Royal Kennel Club • Breed standard
  4. Italian Greyhound reference page
    Wikipedia

Use the linked breed directories and standards for deeper reference. Breed guides are informational and do not replace veterinary or breeder advice.