Some IGs have a genetic predisposition for the following medical conditions: Hypothyroidism and other autoimmune diseases, Leg fractures due to lack of bone density (even without a genetic predisposition, IGs are notoriously prone to leg fractures because of their small bones). Italian Greyhounds are medium maintenance with regard to the amount of grooming required. Again, these are sighthounds and individuals vary greatly in these characteristics. They can often be easily motivated with either food or toys, and they rarely struggle to focus. The Italian Greyhound does better with early socialisation so it will accept new people and situations more readily. The coat is smooth and glossy and can come in a variety of shades (see the breed standard for details). It is believed that the Italian Greyhound dog breed originated in Egypt; in fact, mummified dogs very similar to today's breed have been found in the tombs of the Pharoahs. Youll probably find your Greyhound in the same place that you left them when you come home from work, lounging on their bed or your sofa. It is advisable to brush their teeth regularly with a toothpaste made especially for dogs. Italian Greyhounds were bred as long as 2,000 years ago. Have you ever wondered whether there are many differences between the Italian Greyhound and the Greyhound other than size? In Italian Greyhounds, it can sometimes result in separation anxiety. Cat Health and Nutrition - Guides & Advice, Dog Health and Nutrition - Guides & Advice, Understanding Dog Behaviours - Guides & Advice, Getting a New Cat - Guides & Advice From The Experts, How to Care for Your New Cat - Guide For Owners, How To Care For Your New Dog - Guide For Owners, Getting a New Dog - Helping Your Dog Settle In, Dog Behaviour and Training - Expert Guides & Advice, When You Should Take Your Dog To See a Vet, What Not To Feed Your Cat - Harmful Foods. Mature Italian Greyhounds are quite adaptive and responsive to the energy level of their owners. As little as possible, please! Given a nice, long walk and the opportunity to run around for a bit, your Greyhound will probably be happy enough to leave you alone and let you relax. The most notable and obvious difference between the Greyhound and the Italian Greyhound is size. Many experience separation anxiety. The Italian Greyhound may have been used to hunt rabbits but was also bred primarily for companionship. There is a chance that a Greyhound could chase after an Italian Greyhound and show aggression towards them, perhaps unexpectedly. I'd like a little toy dog to carry around. Puppies also need to be watched for jumping off of furniture since their bones are still developing and especially prone to fracture. Love IGs, Volunteer, Foster, Advocate, Adopt, Educate. Please see the Italian Greyhound Club of America for more information about these genetic conditions and research being done in these areas. Sorry, you need to enable JavaScript to visit this website. I've got time for grooming every other day. Will your cat live indoors, outdoors a bit of both? Staff learns all they can about the dogs they take in, and will spend time getting to know you, your family and your lifestyle, before they match you with any of their dogs. While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children , all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Do your want your dog to get along with other pets? Italian Greyhounds tend to be more nonstop with their energy level and may be relentless in pestering you to play or cuddle. Greyhounds, on the other hand, are quite easy to potty train, and even ex-racing greyhounds can adjust well to potty training. It is best to let the Italian Greyhound run in a confined space, though, as he can run off in pursuit of prey. Italian Greyhounds and Greyhounds can develop a strong prey drive that makes them want to chase animals that are smaller than themselves. Read about them with Purina. The size difference is remarkable when you consider how similar these dogs are in body type. Small-breed foods are specifically designed with appropriate levels of key nutrients and smaller kibble sizes to suit smaller mouths. The head is narrow with a very fine muzzle and ears are softly folded and set high on the head. If your heart is set on a pedigree puppy, then your best bet is to find a reputable breeder. 2022 TrendingBreeds. How much grooming are you prepared to do? A rub down with a cloth will enhance the sheen of the coat. However, Greyhounds quite often express prey drive towards smaller dogs like Italian Greyhounds. Italian Greyhound Chihuahua Mix Why They're Loved SO Much! Adult Italian Greyhounds stand at 32-38cm and weigh 3.6-4.5kg. The gait is high stepping and free. Because Italian Greyhounds are such small, fragile dogs, they tend to do best in homes with no children, older children or other small pets. Reputable centers will be very careful about matching the right people with the right dogs. It is incredibly fulfilling to adopt a dog from an animal shelter or rescue organization. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them. Is there anyone with known dog allergies in your home? One issue many IG owners run into when housetraining is that this breed is especially sensitive to cold, wet and windy weather, so it is difficult to persuade an IG to go out when conditions are less than optimal. Many IG owners have also had success with paper or litter box training. Because Italian Greyhounds have been bred as companions pets throughout their history, they tend to have a slightly lower prey drive than Greyhounds, but many individuals do still express very strong prey drive. The majority of Italian Greyhounds are never entirely housebroken. Both Greyhounds and Italian Greyhounds are highly likely to have a strong prey drive which may cause them to show aggression towards animals smaller than themselves. The following table provides a brief glimpse of the similarities and differences between, Many colors, though brindle is most common, Many colors, but brindle and tan markings of black-and-tan breeds are disqualifications according to AKC regulations, Generally quite easy to train, even potty training, Italian Greyhound Adoption - Where to Look. For instance, some children can be very gentle, and some larger breed animals are also very gentle. While youre waiting for the big day you might need to distract yourself, so luckily there are a few things you need to sort out before you welcome your new arrival. The Italian Greyhound needs very little coat care, as he has such a short coat. All rights reserved. No, there are definitely no allergies in my household, I prefer quiet dogs that only bark from time to time. Greyhounds are known to be eager to please, calm dogs who take easily to training. Many people have the mistaken notion that an Italian Greyhound is just a little Greyhound. Owners also need to be vigilant around open windows and doors, and should always keep their IG on a leash in open areas. They were owned by some of the noblest aristocrats of the time and have remained popular companions and house dogs ever since. Both of these breeds shed, although it may seem that the Italian greyhound sheds more, especially considering its smaller size. Are you looking for a child friendly dog. Mid Atlantic Italian Greyhound Rescue - Italian Greyhounds are fast little sighthounds. The first Italian Greyhound was registered by the American Kennel Club in 1886, but the breed remained quite rare in the United States until fairly recently. As an Amazon Associate, TrendingBreeds.com earns from qualifying purchases. These dogs do need thorough dental care, though, as they are very much prone to dental problems. Italian Greyhounds should not exceed 14 pounds and are often as small as 5 pounds, so there is a huge size difference between these two breeds. They are typically difficult to housetrain and can easily break a bone, which can result in expensive veterinary care. Larger Italian Greyhounds (17 or 18) are fairly common and make great pets. Italian Greyhounds and Greyhounds are both sensitive breeds who tend to be very attached to their person. It often means offering them a second chance in life. They also have some similarities which may surprise you. These coats produce very little oil, so Greyhounds and Italian Greyhounds tend to have less of a dog odor than many other breeds. The dog reached the height of its popularity in the 16th and 17th century where it adorned many courts. Theyll also be happy to give you advice and answer any questions you might have before and after the adoption. They are extremely sensitive to the elements, but they do enjoy outdoor play and walks on warm days. Whether youre bringing home a tiny puppy or rehoming an adult dog, this is a hugely exciting time for everyone. Despite their similar appearance, Italian Greyhounds and Greyhounds have some big differences. Try our breed selector and find out which dog breeds better match your preferences and lifestyle. If you want to introduce a Greyhound and an Italian Greyhound, it is important to do so very slowly, and carefully protect your Italian Greyhound throughout the process of acclimating the dogs together. Like a standard Greyhound but smaller, Italian Greyhounds are affectionate and love to cuddle up to their favourite person. The dog was brought by the Romans to the Mediterranean area in the 6th century BC where it became a favourite of Greek and Roman nobility. If you and your dog enjoy similar things, you will be more likely to live a happy, fulfilling life together. How are Italian Greyhounds and Greyhounds different? Both Greyhounds and Italian Greyhounds have short, smooth coats which require very little maintenance and do not need to be washed often. The Italian Greyhound is believed to have originated some 2,000 years ago in the Mediterranean region near Greece and Turkey. This is one of the most common reasons that they are surrendered to shelters. It is a surprise to many people that these dogs of vastly different sizes are both suitable to apartment living. IGs are not protective in the way some other breeds are, but many IGs will bark when they sense danger. There are many dogs waiting for a loving family, a forever home. About Us | Privacy Policy| Terms and Conditions | Cookie Policy. Dog drool? They are prone to poor dental hygiene, and therefore will need their teeth brushed daily. Greyhounds and Italian Greyhounds are very different, but they also have some significant similarities. Despite these drawbacks, owning an IG is a very rewarding experience. A healthy adult should have at least an hour's daily exercise. Italian Greyhounds crying and having potty accidents when left alone are very common reasons for them to be surrendered to shelters. The Italian Greyhound is definitely a dog meant for the indoors. This is not to say they cant do well in homes with small children or larger animals. Some individuals experience much higher prey drive than others. These hounds hunted wildlife across the deserts of Egypt and were prized for their speed and beauty. The coat is so short and fine that a bath is rarely necessary. Toy dogs have a fast metabolism, meaning they burn energy at a high rate, although their small stomachs mean that they must eat little and often. Italian Greyhounds, on the other hand, can be a bit more stubborn. Agility is a sport that IGs excel at, and some are even adept at lure coursing (though this should be undertaken with a degree of caution). All dogs should learn to stay in a crate quietly for short periods of time, up to three or four hours. However, a crate should never be used to confine an IG all day long everyday while its owner is at work or play. This dog can take time to bond but will be an excellent companion once the friendship is well established. This is an elegant and slender dog, looking like a standard Greyhound but in miniature. All dogs have their own, unique personality, but some instincts and behaviours theyre born with. How much grooming would you be prepared to do? As with many breeds, they can suffer from hereditary eye disorders and therefore eye testing prior to breeding is important. As the years went by, their speed became more important until they became the fastest breed of dog and the racing animal that we know today. You may be surprised to learn that Italian Greyhounds have a much higher energy level than Greyhounds do. They require a lot of love and patience, and are not well-suited for people who: Spend a good deal of time away from home, Have very active small children, Prefer an easily trained, obedient dog. The spine slopes gently and there is a defined tuck-up in the loins. Italian Greyhounds are notorious for being difficult to potty train. The average lifespan of an IG ranges from 13 to 15, but 16 to 18 is not unusual. What level of training are you willing to take on? These are two very distinct breeds with some important differences between them. The ideal size is 13 to 15 with an average weight of 8 to 12 pounds. IGs can also be shy and timid, but this can be avoided/overcome with proper socialization as a puppy. I'm a confident owner with lots of experience. Therefore, no IG should be trusted off of a leash unless in a securely fenced-in area. Adapted from information provided by the Italian Greyhound Club of America. This couldnt be further from the truth. Italian Greyhound and Greyhounds are both prone to a strong desire to chase things that move and cannot be expected to have the self-control to keep themselves from running after something. Another issue is that IGs often fail to let their owners know when they need to go out. While individual IGs vary with regard to housetraining, many do well with a regular routine and a little crate training. Japanese Spitz Vs. Samoyed - Similarities and Differences, Maremma Sheepdog & Great Pyrenees: Differences &. Youll notice these differences in everyday aspects of training, but where youll really appreciate the difference is in potty training. They have a very strong prey drive that cannot be trained away and will send them chasing after any small animal or bird that catches their sight. Italian Greyhounds are notoriously difficult to housetrain. Italian Greyhounds are typically more energetic but are difficult to house train as opposed to Greyhounds. This is rarely a problem for Italian Greyhounds in their relationships with other dogs since very few dogs are significantly smaller than they are. They began their history as fast and surprisingly tough little hounds who also served as elegant companions. Therefore, they should never be allowed off-leash unless they are in an enclosed environment. Greyhounds are much larger, weighing 60 70 pounds and measuring 27 30 inches. I've looked after dogs before, so I have some experience, Yes. This is a loveable dog that loves to snuggle, partly out of affection and partly due to its need to keep warm! If you are adopting an IG in rescue, the rescue representative will be able to help you find the right IG for your home. Are you looking for a dog to guard you and your property? Italian Greyhounds do not require a lot of grooming, but they do need their teeth brushed and nails trimmed regularly. Yes, but not a lot and the fur is so short and fine that it can hardly be seen. I'd like a cat that's highly active and inquisitive. Try to choose a breeder who is part of the Kennel Clubs assured breeder scheme.Visit dog shows to meet breeders in person and inquire about availability of pups of your chosen breed. Greyhounds are happy to sleep for most of the day, and when they do move around they tend to have a very calm, stately way of moving. I've got time for grooming my cat every day, I've only got time for grooming my cat once a week. They are true sighthounds in miniature, and the attention span can be short if theyre bored. Italian Greyhounds, on the other hand, do not handle solitude well. This sensitivity makes them likely to share your mood. Bad teeth seem to be unfortunately common in both of these breeds. I'd like a cat that's playful and curious. They received their name because they were favored by the Italian aristocracy during the Renaissance and were often depicted in paintings and sculpture. Italian Greyhounds do very well in apartments because although they tend to be much more energetic than Greyhounds, they are small enough that they can expel a lot of their energy even in an apartment. A martingale collar or limited choke collar will tighten as a dog pulls, making the collar too small for the dog to slip out of. They want nothing more than to be near their owners and are affectionately called Velcro dogs by many in the IG community. Although Italian Greyhounds reach physical maturity between eight months and a year and a half, depending on their bloodline and their size (larger ones tend to keep growing for a longer period) most of them retain their puppy energy and playfulness well beyond that age. They remained popular companions throughout the years and became especially beloved in Italy during the Renaissance. The energy level is quite high in healthy puppies and young dogs. Prey drive may make it difficult for these dogs to live with cats or smaller dogs and they should not be expected to tolerate smaller pets like chickens or rabbits. This is even more likely if a Greyhound comes from a racing past or has not been exposed to small dogs before. Much depends on the trainers ability to keep the IG interested. We also participate in other affiliate programs and are compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies (at no cost to you). The history of the Greyhound goes back even further, to as long as 5,000 years ago. The Italian Greyhound dog is generally a healthy breed but can suffer from broken legs. Do you have a size preference for your dog? Italian Greyhounds need something to keep them warm in cold weather usually a sweater or small coat is fine. My cat will have limited access to out-door space, My cat will be free to roam outdoors at will. Italian Greyhounds are wonderful, loving animals, but they do require and demand lots of love and attention. Italian Greyhounds weigh 7 14 pounds and stand 13 -15 inches tall. IGs are also able to slip out of doors when people are coming and going, so it is important to be vigilant when opening doors to areas that are not fenced in. It really depends on the circumstances involved. Exercise should be carefully monitored until the dog is fully grown and even then care should be taken with his often delicate limbs. Are you looking for a cat that's good with children? Some do superbly in obedience competition, and others dont do well at all. Greyhounds weigh up to 70 pounds according to the AKC standard and racing dogs are often even bigger, sometimes over 100 pounds at an ideal weight. They also need lots and lots of love and attention. I'd feel more comfortable keeping training to the basics, I'm happy with breeds that may need some training, I'm an experienced trainer and comfortable with any breed, I'm looking for a dog to take on gentle walks, I'd like to go on active walks with my dog, I'd like to keep super fit together with vigorous walks. ContactThe Kennel Clubor a breed-club secretary who may have a list of litters available, or should be able to put you in contact with breeders in your area. Click here for more information. Greyhounds usually dont mind being left alone for periods of time during the day, and separation anxiety is not common in the breed. No, this will be my first dog and I am ready to learn! Italian Greyhounds tend to have worse teeth than Greyhounds, but both breeds are more prone to dental issues than other breeds. Although a very small dog, this is still a sighthound and he does love to run. These little dogs were seen as a status symbol. Italian Greyhounds require a special collar because the sleek shape of their heads makes it easy for them to back out of a regular collar or harness. Greyhounds are incredibly calm and relaxed around the house for the most part, provided they get a good walk and the opportunity to run somewhere off-leash, such as a dog park. Italian Greyhounds are not for everyone. Some do not attain mental maturity until they are three or four years old another characteristic which many fanciers consider to be part of the charm of this breed. Famous owners include Mary Queen of Scots, Charles I, Frederick the Great and Queen Victoria. Some Italian Greyhounds are skittish as well and will try to run off if they hear a loud noise, are frightened of another dog or person, or are otherwise spooked. You may be surprised to learn what these two breeds have in common and what is different about them. This also encourages chewing and improves digestion. Could cat allergies be an issue in your household? The following table provides a brief glimpse of the similarities and differences between Italian Greyhounds and Greyhounds. full grown staffy cross bullmastiff, lab pointer mix for sale near illinois, To visit this website breeds better match your preferences and lifestyle at will, partly out of and! Are never entirely housebroken own, unique personality, but some instincts and behaviours theyre with. Owners know when they sense danger in separation anxiety is not to say they do. Are both sensitive breeds who tend to have less of a leash in open.. 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