Italian Greyhound

Overview

The Italian Greyhound originated more than 2000 years ago in what is now called Greece and Turkey. Their name is in reference to the breed’s popularity in Renaissance Italy. This breed dog is an alert, playful, and highly affectionate companion. Also known as Iggys, they are the smallest of the sighthounds and were originally bred as companion dogs that could hunt small animals.  They're also stubborn and might demand attention or can become possessive of their owners. Broken bones seem to be a fact of life with some Italian Greyhounds and they are quite sensitive and prefer to stay out of wet or cold weather.

 

Common Health Conditions

• Italian Greyhound’s scissor-bite and thin jaw bones make them susceptible to periodontal disease, which can be avoided with good dental care. Daily brushing has been shown to be very beneficial as well as regular dental cleanings from the vet.
• Italian Greyhound's can also be born with a liver defect known as a portosystemic shunt, in which blood is diverted away from the liver. 
• Hypothyroidism is an underactive thyroid gland. A common hormonal disease in dogs in which the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroxin hormone.