Italian Greyhound

The Italian Greyhound is a small breed of dog of the sight hound type, sometimes called an "I.G."

The Italian Greyhound makes a good companion dog and enjoys the company of people. However, the breed's slim build and short coat make them somewhat fragile, and injury can result from rough or careless play with children. They also are equally at home in the city or the country, although they tend to do best in spacious areas. They are fast, agile and athletic. Like any dog, daily exercise is a must for a happier, well-adjusted pet. Italian greyhounds love to run. Particularly active, and this high level of activity may lead them to attempt ill-advised feats of athleticism that can result in injury. They may also bark at passers-by and other animals. However, they should not be considered "true" guard dogs as they are often aloof with strangers and easily spooked to run. Due to their size, and in some lineages poor bone density, they are prone to broken legs. Italian Greyhounds make reasonably good watchdogs, as they bark at unfamiliar sounds. The breed is good with the elderly or a couple without any children for it prefers a quiet household but they are also generally fine with older children.

The Italian Greyhound is the smallest of the sighthounds, typically weighing about 8 to 18 lb (3.6 to 8.2 kg) and standing about 13 to 15 inches (33 to 38 cm) tall at the withers.Though they are in the "toy" group based on their weight, they are larger than other dogs in the category due to their slender bodies, so owners must be careful when sizing clothing or accommodations.

Italian Greyhound

Italian Greyhound
Other names	Italian Greyhound: French: Petit Levrier Italiane, Italian: ,Piccolo Levriero Italiano; German: Italienisches Windspiel; Spanish: Galgo italiano