Temperament and Behaviours
Italian greyhounds are are an affectionate breed, especially when that affection is returned. If you crave any kind of personal space, this isn't the dog for you. IGs are very loyal and are at their happiest when they are with their owner, which is almost all of the time. They are also bonded to their family (i.e., more than one member). Furthermore, if you have a busy life and aren't at home a lot, IGs may not be the best pet. This breed doesn't do well when it is left alone for long periods of time each day. They are great adult companions, especially for those who live in apartment complexes or condominiums.
|
The coat of the IG is short and fine and because of this, IGs don't tolerate cold, and wet weather very well. They crave warmth, whether
it be snuggling up against you (or on top of you) while sitting on the couch, sleeping on your bed and sometimes under the covers. It is almost impossible to keep this breed off your furniture. When taking your dog for walk and the weather is cool, it needs to be wearing a jacket. When it comes to puppies, being warm and not being over exerted is essential for developing bones. Italian greyhounds are an indoor breed and should never be left outside. |
They are known to be mischievous especially when they haven't been trained properly. Even though these dogs are small they are very intelligent and can get themselves places you wouldn't think they could. An example of this would be on top of your dining room table because the chairs weren't pushed in. It is important to know that because IG is a sensitive breed, they don't react well to negative/harsh punishment. They need constant positive reinforcement. This is especially important when it comes to house training. It actually takes longer to house train an Italian greyhound due to their high metabolism. It is important to stick to a schedule and to frequently take them outside to help prevent accidents indoors.
Even with obedience training, it is important to keep your dog leashed while walking. It has been ingrained in the breed to be hunters, true gazehounds, and seeing that squirrel across the street will prompt them to run after it. You will be hard pressed to get them to listen to you while you are running after them (they can be stubborn). It has been suggested that using a harness may be more beneficial for the Italian greyhound. Like other toy breeds, IGs can suffer from tracheal collapse. A harness would aid in helping prevent this. Another thing to consider while walking is how timid the IG can be and around strangers they can pretty aloof. |
Italian greyhounds are a fragile breed and although they get along well with children and with other pets (including cats), close supervision is needed with large dogs and when children are playing with the dog. Tail pulling and giving tight hugs by children can actually break bones. This could also happen with a larger dog playing with the IG and accidentally falling on it. Although IGs get along with other breeds, they do sometimes get along better with their own kind and having two is better than one. |