Italian Greyhound Dog Breed
Dog Breeds
Italian Greyhound Quick Facts
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Introduction
The Italian Greyhound, also known as the Piccolo Levriero Italiano, the IG and the “Iggy” to its admirers, is the smallest of all sighthounds (also called “gazehounds”) and has been a beloved companion animal for thousands of years. They are perhaps best known for their remarkably affectionate disposition. The Italian Greyhound is truly a Greyhound in miniature in virtually all ways, just being smaller and more slender than its larger relative and having a more high-stepping gait. The IG is adaptable to rural or urban life, enjoying plush indoor accommodations as well as the outdoors. Italian Greyhounds are far less fragile than they appear. In general, they are hardy, healthy and largely unbreakable companions. The Italian Greyhound was approved by the American Kennel Club in 1886 as a member of the Toy Group.
The ideal Italian Greyhound stands 13 to 15 inches at the highest point of the shoulder. They can weigh from 5 to 14 pounds, with the average being about 8 pounds. Their short, glossy coat is easy to care for and only requires an occasional wiping-down with a soft cloth. The IG sheds infrequently and is odorless, making it an exceptional house or apartment dog. Italian Greyhounds come in every color. Those with brindle markings or with the tan markings normally found on black-and-tan dogs of other breeds are disqualified from the American show ring. This breed has thin skin and gets chilled easily.
An ancient breed, the Italian Greyhound is thought to have originated more than 2,000 years ago in the Mediterranean lands currently known as Turkey and Greece, based on skeletal remains and decorative depictions from that time. The small breed spread slowly throughout Europe and eventually became popular with Italian royalty in the 16th century, acquiring the name Italian Greyhound, which it carries today. The breed has survived virtually unchanged for centuries, prized for its diminutive
The Italian Greyhound was developed in Ancient Egypt, and many Pharaohs' tombs contain mummies of these highly esteemed dogs. IG's are well mannered most of the time, but are prone to fits of energy which cause them to suddenly leap up and tear around the house or yard, for no apparent reason. IG's are sensitive dogs who prefer a quiet house and a gentle touch. They do not like cold or wet weather, so coats
The miniature Italian Greyhound is a an elegant, fine-boned dog with a high-stepping gait. Like their larger Greyhound counterparts, they have an arched back, a tucked abdomen and long, straight forelegs. The neck is long and slender, with a a graceful arch. The chest is deep and narrow, the shoulders long and sloping. The ears of the Italian Greyhound are narrow and fold back against the head, but raise up when the dog is alert.
The saying goes, “a picture is worth a thousand words”. Check out the many different Italian Greyhound Pictures and Italian Greyhound images. Get an in depth look at the Italian Greyhound and see the many things that this breed has to offer.