The ANKC standard (1998) specifies that the Italian Greyhound (IG) is "a greyhound in miniature, more slender in all proportions." It is elegant, graceful and quick moving. It is intelligent, affectionate and vivacious but may appear aloof with strangers.
Breeders strive for a long, narrow head with a long fine muzzle (often called a "needle nose"). The eyes are as dark as possible, rather large but never protruding. The beautiful ears are rose shaped, fine and soft - never pricked. Igs come in many colours - the only disqualifying colours being black and tan or blue and tan, and brindle. IGs are black, blue, cream, fawn, red, white, or any of these colours broken with white. White dogs may be broken with one of these colours. The coat of an IG is one of its most beautiful features - it is very short, fine and glossy, feeling just like velvet. An IG is warm to the touch.
The IG is poetry in motion - the long legs move beautifully - high stepping and free, with good impulsion from behind. At the gallop, the dog resembles an arrow, speeding low, the back arching and stretching. IGs are not content with keeping their feet on the ground, they strive to fly and leap exuberantly high into the air and into their owners' arms.
IGs ideally weigh from 2.7 kg to 4.5 kgs but many good pets weigh somewhat more.
It is believed that IGs originated in Egypt, the home of many others of the
sight hound family. They were tremendously popular in Italy during the Renaissance and feature in many paintings of the period. They may have been used as a hunter of small game - most are enthusiastic hunters today, but were most probably used as a marvellous bedwarmer. Today, IGs are brilliant at finding the warmest, softest place in the home, preferably in the lap of their favourite person. They are a true companion dog, thriving when living closely with their human families. They are not dogs which can live alone outside in a kennel - they need company and warmth.
These dogs are best suited for families where someone is usually at home. They are wonderful with older people and gentle children. They will take whatever exercise is offered - particularly enjoying a chance to stretch their long legs in a safe area. They are hopeless with traffic and should never be allowed off lead near roads.
IGs do not usually do well in Obedience Trials - they are too distractible, fun-loving and independent, but they do enjoy Agility. Nevertheless all IGs should learn basic obedience (sit, stay, come, heel) - they learn best by the positive reinforcement method.
If you wish to purchase an IG, it highly recommended that you buy from a reputable breeder, registered with the Kennel Club of your state, and that you visit the breeder to see the dogs in their home setting. Try to see the parents of the pup and watch how they react - they may be aloof with you but should show confidence and trust with their owner. Prices vary, but dogs worthy of the show ring and for breeding are valuable.
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