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Italian Greyhound
Toy

Italian Greyhound

Origin: Italy

AffectionateAlertPlayfulSensitiveGentle

Weight

7–14 lbs

Height

13–15 inches

Lifespan

14–15 years

Coat

Short, fine, and glossy coat

Breeder Cost

$1,200–$3,000

Adoption Cost

$150–$500

Personality & Temperament

The Italian Greyhound is a diminutive, graceful sighthound known for its affectionate nature and playful spirit. They are sensitive companions that form deep bonds with their owners and thrive on being close to them. While loving indoors, they possess a strong prey drive and can be somewhat timid or cautious around strangers or loud noises.

Best For

An attentive, gentle owner who is home often and can provide a warm, secure indoor environment with plenty of lap time.

Exercise & Activity Needs

Requires daily moderate exercise such as short walks and safe indoor play sessions, but should always be kept on a leash or in a securely fenced area due to their strong chase instinct.

Grooming & Coat Care

Very low maintenance; their short coat requires only occasional brushing and a wipe down with a damp cloth to keep it shiny.

Coat type: Short, fine, and glossy coat

Common Health Conditions

The Italian Greyhound is generally a sturdy breed. Primary health concerns include Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease, Dental Disease, Color Dilution Alopecia. Regular veterinary checkups, appropriate health screenings, and responsible breeding practices help minimize these risks.

Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease

A hip disorder affecting the femoral head, often requiring surgical management.

Dental Disease

Prone to early tartar buildup and tooth loss, making regular dental hygiene essential.

Color Dilution Alopecia

A form of hair loss affecting certain dilute-colored coats.

History & Origin

Originating in ancient Greece and Turkey, the breed was later refined in Italy, where it became extremely popular among Renaissance royalty as a companion animal and miniature sighthound.

Interesting Facts

  • 1

    They are the smallest of all sighthounds.

  • 2

    Their delicate bones make them prone to fractures, requiring careful handling.

  • 3

    Despite their fragile look, they love to sprint at surprising speeds.

Cost of Ownership

Owning an Italian Greyhound is a long-term financial commitment. Here's a realistic breakdown of what to budget for.

Annual Cost

$800–$1,500

First Year (incl. setup)

$1,500–$2,800

Food$300–$500/yr

High-quality small breed food

Vet Care$400–$800/yr

Routine checkups and dental care

Grooming$50–$150/yr

Minimal professional grooming, nail trims

Supplies & Toys$100–$250/yr

Sweaters, toys, and bedding

* Estimates based on national averages. Costs vary by location, lifestyle, and individual health needs. Emergency vet visits are not included.

Plan daily life with your Italian Greyhound

Use the guides below to compare practical options alongside this breed's care needs.

Pet Tech Essentials

The right technology makes dog ownership easier, safer, and more connected — whether you're home or away. These are the products our editors consider must-haves for every dog owner.

Breed Traits

Best forapartment living · multi-pet homes
Not idealowners away long hours · first-time owners
Positive for ownersNeeds managementInformational
Energy Level
Moderate
Trainability
Moderate
Apartment OK
Very High
Kid-Friendly
Moderate
Pet-Friendly
High
Affection Level
High
Grooming
Very Low
Shedding
Very Low

Temperament

Barking
Low
Protective
Very Low
Sep. Anxiety
High
Stubbornness
Moderate
Noise Sensitive
High

Climate & Physical

Heat Tolerance
Moderate
Cold Tolerance
Very Low
Water Affinity
Very Low
Drool Level
Very Low

Compatibility

Rural & Outdoor

Livestock Safe
Very Low
Off-Leash Reliable
Very Low

Scores reflect breed tendencies. Individual training significantly affects both livestock safety and off-leash reliability.

Dog Friendly
High
Cat Friendly
High
Prey Drive
High
!
Best for experienced owners

Health & Longevity

Health Score
Good (7/10)

Based on breed-specific genetic health risks and common conditions

Longevity
14–15 years
5 yrs20 yrs
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Consider Adopting

Many Italian Greyhounds are waiting in shelters and breed-specific rescues. Adoption costs are typically $150–$500 vs. $1,200–$3,000 from a breeder.

Read our Rescue Guide →
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Download the Italian Greyhound Guide

Get a printable PDF with traits, cost of ownership, health notes, and best-fit summary — free.

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