Italian greyhound, Italian greyhound: description, photo

2024 Author: Priscilla Miln | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-16 00:21

Speaking of greyhounds, we always remember a proud, thin-legged creature that can run without stopping for at least a whole day, driving prey. This is a real horse, tall, stately, spectacular. But among these dogs there is also an indoor miracle, which is difficult to imagine on a hunt. This is an Italian greyhound, or small. An indoor toy breed that is ideal for the urban hunting dog lover.

Have to give her credit. The Italian Greyhound, or Italian Greyhound, looks like an elegant figurine. Graceful, elegant, light, she is more like a cat in her habits. Therefore, if you need a bodyguard, it is better to look for him among other representatives of the canine world. This creature loves to sleep on a sunny mat and is easy to litter train so you don't have to go outside at all in bad weather.

General Description

Among the decorative breeds of dogs, we most often hear about toy terriers and poodles, Spitz, but the Italian greyhound remains somehow behind the scenes. But in fact, she is forgotten completely in vain andundeservedly. Unlike many other breeds, this one is great for inexperienced owners, as it does not require special training skills. The height at the withers does not exceed 38 centimeters, and the average weight is 3 kg. An Italian greyhound will forever give its heart to a single owner. But she will love and respect all family members.

Initially, this dog had a very specific task - to be a faithful companion and companion. And today she performs these functions perfectly, because she loves to sit on her hands and is ready to do it for hours on end.

History of the breed

The Little Italian Greyhound appeared over two thousand years ago. The region of modern Greece is considered its original homeland. Information about the first representatives of this breed, who they were and how they were used by humans, has already been lost. It is only known that they were not as miniature as modern dogs.

In the 16th century, the small Italian greyhound gained popularity among we althy people. She became the most popular palace dog. With her grace and sophisticated appearance, she adorned the royal chambers and was the favorite of royal people. For example, the King of Prussia had at least 50 Italian Greyhounds, each of which he knew by name. In the Middle Ages, the popularity of the breed only increased.

Modern look

The little Italian greyhound deserved such love precisely for its modest size. Largely due to their aristocratic appearance, dogs gained popularity among the ladies of the court, who used them asexpensive accessories. It is not surprising that the selection work that began to be carried out with this breed was aimed at maintaining this particular trait. That is, as a result, a miniature size and weight of up to 4 kilograms were fixed. By these signs, today we recognize the modern Italian Greyhound.

But despite this, the little greyhound still remains worthy of its name. It can reach speeds up to 40 km/h. This is significantly faster than any other member of the miniature breed. Greyhound has excellent dexterity and flair, sharp hearing and excellent eyesight.

Breed Format

In fact, if you are looking for a dog for the soul, then there is not much difference what her weight and height are. But if you want to exhibit it in the ring and take places, as well as participate in breeding, then your pet must exactly match the breed format. The small Italian greyhound, the Italian greyhound is a square dog. The length of the body is only slightly less than the height at the withers. But the body structure is not at all heavy.

The body of the dog deserves special attention. Typically greyhound, dry, elegant, light-boned, fast and dynamic. The muscles are thin, but well developed. The chest is very deep and narrow, the ribs are long and the loin is slightly arched. This miracle, in principle, is not suitable for serious work, as can be seen at first glance. Decorative Italian greyhound has a short, shiny and thick coat. Her skin is thin, close-fitting, without wrinkles.

Head

Quite long, flat, narrow andmust be dry. She cannot have any folds and frills. The skull is long, and the transition to the muzzle is very smooth. Ears - characteristic of hunting breeds, thin, hanging on cartilage, they are located high. In a calm state, they are lowered to one side, and if the dog is alert, they become vertical.

The eyes are infinitely intelligent, large, dark and expressive. Probably, largely due to this look, many lovers of the breed have chosen the Italian greyhound for themselves. Their gaze is attentive, very smart, sparkling. Depending on the color of the dog, the eyes may be darker or lighter. The neck of these dogs is very elegant, dry, long, with a beautiful scruff line.

Limbs

The Italian Greyhound has a peculiar body structure that may seem strange to a person who is unfamiliar with the features of the breed. Their back is strong, muscular and arched, the loin is short, and the croup is long, slightly sloping. The last feature is emphasized by a thin long tail, which is set low and lowered down. At the end, it is slightly bent and stretched under the stomach. Because of this, it seems that the Italian Greyhound is always a little afraid.

Their forelimbs are straight and dry, as it should be for a real hunter. The shoulders are slightly sharp, the elbows are pressed to the chest. The forearms are strong, with thin but strong bones and well-developed muscles. The hind limbs are straight, parallel to each other. The thighs and knees are muscular, the stifle and hock joints are well defined. All these features are more needed by professionals, anda simple layman will immediately notice the characteristic movements: fast and graceful, elegant and straightforward.

Dog personality

What is the Italian greyhound like in everyday life for its owners? A description of each of them would take many pages, because for a loving person, this is the cutest creature in the world. But even in appearance, one can guess that this is a gentle and kind dog, with a big heart, in which only the owner lives. Temperament can vary greatly, but more often than not, your puppy will grow up to be an exact copy of you. Greyhound can be playful or sedate, obedient or wayward.

These are comfortable dogs for a city apartment, for a family with a small child or a disabled person. They do not need walks, although they like to be in the fresh air, and are easily accustomed to the tray. This is a very graceful creature, they are also called cat-dogs. But along with grace and grace, Italian greyhounds are incredibly hardy. Nature rewarded this crumb with excellent muscles. She is easy to train and learns to perform various tricks in a short time.

Features of keeping in the family

Italian greyhound (greyhound) can be a wonderful companion for a lonely person, to whom she will give all her tenderness and affection. Quivering and timid, they need your protection. The Italian greyhound will also fit perfectly into a family with active schoolchildren. Together they will have a lot of time to run and frolic. But if you have a small child, it is better to wait a bit with the purchase of a pet. A fragile Italian greyhound can easily suffer from immoderate children's curiosity.

It should be noted that these creatures are non-conflict. They get along easily with other pets. The main thing is not to touch them.

Shy and nervous by nature, they have a hard time adjusting to noisy streets and loud music. If you plan to regularly take walks in the city center, then you need to teach your dog to do this from early childhood. When walking, it is better to keep a greyhound on a leash. So safer for a tiny creature. In addition, a developed hunting instinct may call her to run after a bird, ignoring commands. You will not be able to catch up with the Italian greyhound, so it is better not to allow such a situation.

Dog food

If you are buying a miniature dog, then you need to pay special attention to this issue. Usually they have a specific metabolism, and only specialized feeds with a high content of nutrients can provide the body with everything it needs. The reason is simple: a tiny stomach can't process enough normal food to keep you going.

But don't be confused. Bred decorative dogs are one thing, and the Italian greyhound is quite another. The breed of the dog is miniature, but it does not complain about the state of he alth at all. Experienced breeders say that it is best to feed a greyhound with natural food. To do this, you need lean meat with cartilage and veins. It can be beef or turkey, chicken. Before eating, the meat will need to be scalded with boiling water orboil slightly, but drain the broth, you can’t give it.

Additionally cook loose porridge, it can be buckwheat or rice. Don't forget the benefits of dairy products. Cottage cheese, kefir and fermented baked milk will be a great addition to the dog's diet. Seasonal vegetables and fruits, pitted sea fish, greens - all this should also be on the table. Don't forget your vitamin and mineral supplements.

Banned

Italian greyhound puppies are amazingly cute creatures that want to be indulged in everything. However, from the first day the dog stays in the house, decide for yourself whether you want to be a regular visitor to veterinary clinics and pharmacies. If not, then you need to find the strength in yourself to refuse the crumbs food from your table. Most of this is harmful to her, and some of it is simply dangerous.

Prohibited products for Italian greyhounds are smoked meats, fatty meats and seasonings. This means that the question of whether it is possible to give a dog soup or a second one prepared for family members is decided unambiguously. The same list includes legumes and chocolate, any sweets and pastries, chicken bones and bread.

If you are a busy person, then perhaps the best way out is to use ready-made feeds. However, there are a number of rules here too. First of all, you need to choose a quality product. To do this, consult your veterinarian and read the information on the composition on the packages. In the first place should be meat, but corn and gluten are better not to be at all. This food has a number of advantages. It does not need to be cooked, you can take it with you on the road, it does not deteriorate for a long time, andThe portion required per day is indicated on the package. Do not forget that you cannot mix natural and ready-made feeds, this leads to indigestion. Therefore, after making a choice, stick to one diet plan.

Dog care

Smooth-haired greyhound with short, smooth, soft and shiny coat does not require special skills from the breeder. The Italian greyhound (we provide a photo in the article) is a very clean dog that has no dog smell at all. She does not need special and complex care, grooming or haircut, the main thing is your love and attention.

Wool practically does not need special measures, it is enough to comb it once a week with a special mitten or a soft brush. Italian greyhounds love to swim, this procedure can be performed at least three times a month. To avoid allergic reactions, you need to choose a mild shampoo for short-haired breeds. The eyes of these dogs are dry, without a tendency to souring and redness. Therefore, it is enough just to regularly monitor their condition. If you see swelling or other changes, you should immediately contact your veterinarian.

Claws and paws must be wiped and inspected after walking. Nails should be trimmed about once a month. These dogs are very sensitive to the cold, so be sure to keep them at home. For walks in the fresh air, the Italian Greyhound should have a set of clothes. These are blouses, demi-season and winter overalls, as well as shoes.

Common diseases

The Italian greyhound can be called a very he althy breed, however, these mobile and funny little ones can get sick. Among the ailments that are inherent in these dogs, glaucoma and juvenile cataract are most common. That is why the slightest change in the condition of the eyes should be the reason for an immediate visit to the veterinarian. The list could be continued to include progressive retinal atrophy and corneal dystrophy. Epilepsy and cryptorchidism, alopecia and baldness are found in Italian Greyhounds.

Instead of a conclusion

If you are looking for a small, affectionate and gentle dog that will become an active companion for all family members, then the best option will be difficult to find. Cheerful, contact, very smart and friendly creatures, they conquer at first sight. If you raise one Italian greyhound, then most likely you will remain faithful to this breed for the rest of your life. The Italian greyhound is a dog for beginners who do not have the skills of grooming and training. You don't need anything special. The main thing is to love your pet with all your heart, and he will answer you the same. Today we discussed all the most important points that you need to pay attention to the future and present owner, now the choice is yours.