The Italian Greyhound, often called the IG or Iggy, is a miniature version of the standard Greyhound, with a history dating back more than 2,000 years. The breed was popular among the ancient Egyptians and Romans, frequently appearing in ancient art and pottery. During the Renaissance, Italian nobility embraced these graceful little dogs, and they became a fixture in courts across Europe.
While they were originally bred for companionship and light hunting, their primary role became that of a noble lapdog, prized for their refinement, charm, and delicate features. The breed was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1886 and has remained a favorite among toy and sighthound enthusiasts ever since.
The Italian Greyhound is well-loved for its gentle, playful personality and elegant looks. It’s popular among city dwellers due to its small size and affectionate nature, and among sighthound fans who appreciate its graceful form in a compact package. With its charming antics and sensitive heart, the IG has carved a niche as a devoted, lively companion.
This breed is a slender, fine-boned toy sighthound, known for its sleek silhouette and expressive eyes.
• Coat: Short, smooth, and glossy—feels like satin to the touch.
• Color:
o Found in a wide variety of solid colors including blue, black, gray, red, fawn, cream, and occasionally white markings.
• Size:
o Height: 13–15 inches (33–38 cm)
o Weight: 7–14 lbs (3–6 kg)
• Head & Expression: Long, narrow head with dark, almond-shaped eyes that reflect curiosity and affection.
• Ears: Small, folded, and rose-shaped, set high on the head.
• Tail: Long and tapering, carried low.
• Body: Graceful and athletic with an arched back and long legs, built for sprinting.
The Italian Greyhound is a sweet-natured, sensitive, and fun-loving breed.
• Affectionate and Velcro-like: Craves closeness—loves to cuddle and follow its person around.
• Playful and Lively: Enjoys zoomies, toys, and bursts of energy—has a silly side.
• Sensitive and Gentle: Can be easily startled or upset by loud voices or harsh training.
• Intelligent and Inquisitive: Quick to learn but may have a selective attention span.
• Social but Reserved: Friendly with people and pets, but may be shy around strangers.
Perfect for individuals or families seeking a small, elegant dog with a big heart and graceful presence.
• Apartment-Friendly: Quiet, small, and adaptable to indoor living.
• Low Shedding: Short coat is easy to maintain and doesn’t shed much.
• Endearing Personality: Playful, quirky, and loyal—a true charmer.
• Cat-Friendly: Often gets along well with cats and other small pets.
• Unique Aesthetic: A sighthound look in a portable, lapdog size.
This breed requires gentle training, warmth, and lots of human contact.
• Training:
o Responds best to gentle, positive reinforcement.
o House training can take patience—IGs dislike cold or wet weather.
• Exercise:
o Needs short daily walks and indoor playtime—short bursts of energy rather than long hikes.
o Loves chasing toys and running in secure, fenced spaces.
• Grooming:
o Minimal grooming—wipe down or occasional bath.
o Regular nail trimming and dental care are important.
• Nutrition:
o Feed a balanced, high-quality diet—monitor for sensitivity to certain ingredients.
• Companionship:
o Should not be left alone for long periods—thrives in homes where someone is usually around.
The Italian Greyhound is generally long-lived with a lifespan of 13–15 years, but can be prone to:
• Dental Disease
• Leg Fractures (especially in puppies) due to fine bones
• Epilepsy
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
• Hypothyroidism
• Allergies or sensitive skin
Breeders should test for eye and thyroid conditions and support proper bone health in young dogs.
Compared to the Chihuahua, the IG is more athletic and elegant, but similarly loyal. It’s less sturdy but more graceful than a Miniature Pinscher, and quieter than a Papillon. Its personality is closer to a miniature Whippet, with a greater need for warmth and affection.
If you want a delicate, affectionate dog with elegance and a dash of fun, the Italian Greyhound could be perfect. Best for gentle homes that enjoy cuddles, short walks, and indoor bonding time.
Not ideal for households with rough play, extreme cold climates, or long hours alone.
United Pet Club is here to help you explore this graceful little sighthound—offering guidance on adoption, training, and specialized care. If you’re ready for a loving lapdog with a noble past, the Italian Greyhound awaits.