Are Italian Greyhounds Good For First Time Owners?

Are Italian greyhounds good for first-time owners? YES! If you can care for their needs and have a lifestyle that matches the “Iggy” personality.

Should an Italian Greyhound Always Have Company?

Ideally. the Italian greyhound should always have company. This breed of dog thrives on companionship. Whether that’s at home with a responsible family or a dog-friendly workplace. Italian Greyhounds love people and other similar dog breeds. Many people consider adopting two greyhounds at the same time.

When people are absent, they suffer from loneliness and anxiety. Similar to a Greyhound, the Italian Greyhound can tend to whine more than other breeds. So don’t leave them alone for long periods of time.

Greyhounds And Italian Greyhounds Are Not The Same Dogs!

An Italian Greyhound is NOT a greyhound, they may look similar but they are very different and require a different type of commitment. Italian Greyhounds are a challenge, but everything can be overcome with time. Once the Italian Greyhound is well-trained and integrated into your everyday life. You will have the most perfect companion. Here are a few different comparatives between the Greyhound and the Italian Greyhound;

Size 

Italian Greyhounds are smaller.. Way smaller! They usually weigh in around 3-5KG, whereas a greyhound is much larger and weighs between 26–40KG.

Sleeping

Italian greyhounds love a snuggle more than Greyhounds do. If you have a very stressful day at work, this dog will comfort you. They are also one of the clingiest breeds of dogs.

Energy

Greyhounds are extreme, not only are they the fastest dogs on the planet, they also love a nap for most of the day and are pretty chilled out. Italian Greyhounds love a good run, any time of the day. They can switch from chilling out to running out. If you can make the Italian Greyhound’s environment comfortable, you may be able to persuade them to stay put a little longer.

Toilet

Italian Greyhounds are harder to toilet train than Greyhounds, and most other dogs. If you are looking to adopt an Italian Greyhound, invest in some laminate flooring.

Home Alone

Greyhounds sometimes cry when left alone but not as much as Italian Greyhounds. IG’s usually have bad separation anxiety.

Training

Compared to Greyhounds, Italian Greyhounds need more consistency when training. If you love structure, the Italian Greyhound is perfect for you.

Friends

Greyhounds are less social than Italian Greyhounds. Greyhound action their stronger hunting instinct. Whereas Italian Greyhounds can control it better, they are more friendly dogs. Italian Greyhounds are generally easier to keep in pairs because they can keep each other company should you be occupied.

Weather

Greyhounds will go out in rain or snow, they just love it. Italian Greyhounds, on the other hand, are more particular… Good luck taking an Italian greyhound for a walk or running in the snow. You would have to seriously drag them out (I’m not suggesting you drag them.)

If your greyhound doesn’t go out for a few days due to bad weather, keep an eye on the diet as the last thing you want is a fat Italian Greyhound!

Jumping

Greyhounds don’t see the point in jumping unless it’s maybe for food or a squirrel. Italian Greyhounds will jump everywhere, including on furniture. As the Italian Greyhound gets older, there is less energy. especially the younger they are. Many Italian Greyhounds break their legs because of this, also young children can damage this breed of dog if they are not careful when playing.

Who Will The Italian Greyhound Live With?

The Italian greyhound is an affectionate dog that is friendly with children, strangers, colleagues, clients and other dogs… Especially dogs of a similar breed. That said, the Iggy is a sighthound breed and their ancestors would hunt; which means a high prey drive and a natural love for chasing, so a home or office with small pets like mice, rats, hamsters, etc. is not ideal.

Do Italian Greyhounds Feel The Cold?

Living in a cold climate or a workplace with constant air conditioning does not rule out owning an Italian greyhound. However, it does require a bigger investment in outdoor wear to help this petite hound maintain a healthy body temperature. Italian greyhounds have a unique physiology that makes them more susceptible to cold. Their skin is relatively thin, and this athletic breed has little body fat, which is great for cooling down after a run but not so good at warming up after a run in the snow! To ensure their comfort and health, you’ll need to outfit them with appropriate clothing, such as sweaters, jackets, and even boots during colder months.

Additionally, you might want to invest in indoor heating solutions, like heated beds or blankets, to keep them cozy inside. When taking them for walks in cold weather, be mindful of the duration and intensity of their exercise. Frequent, shorter walks might be preferable to prevent them from getting too cold. Always monitor their behavior for signs of discomfort, such as shivering or reluctance to go outside, and adjust their attire and activities accordingly. By being attentive and proactive, you can help your Italian greyhound thrive, even in less-than-ideal climates.

How Active Is The Workplace?

Although small, the Italian greyhound is energetic and requires a buzzing atmosphere with regular play and exercise to be happy. These lively dogs thrive on interaction and activity, making it essential for them to be engaged both physically and mentally. A sterile and boring environment can be detrimental to their well-being, as they are naturally curious and active creatures.

A sedentary lifestyle spells boredom for this working breed. Like most dogs, boredom in Italian greyhounds can lead to destructive behavior, such as chewing on furniture, digging, or incessant barking, as well as general unhappiness. To prevent these issues, it is crucial to provide a stimulating environment that caters to their need for activity and mental challenges.

Regular exercise is a must for Italian greyhounds. Daily walks, play sessions, and opportunities to run in a safe, enclosed area can help them burn off their energy. Additionally, incorporating interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and training sessions can keep their minds sharp and engaged. Socialization with other dogs and people is also important, as it helps them develop good behavior and prevents loneliness.

Creating a dynamic and enriching environment for your Italian greyhound will not only prevent destructive behaviors but also ensure that your pet remains happy and healthy. By understanding and catering to their energetic nature, you can provide the stimulation they need to thrive.

Should Training My Italian Greyhound be a Priority?

Training is a necessity for any dog but particularly for those bred to work. Training keeps working pups mentally stimulated. Any family and workplace considering an Italian greyhound, for instance, should be fully committed to a minimum of basic training classes and consistent reinforcement of commands.

Should your Italian Greyhound puppy be engaging with lots of colleagues in the workplace, make sure you are micromanaging the first few encounters, so everybody is aware of how to behave. Bad office behaviour can become contagious.

Are You Committed To Your Italian Greyhounds Dental Care?

The Italian Greyhound is prone to dental disease, which can lead to tooth loss and severe infections if not properly managed. To maintain their dental health, it is crucial for an Italian Greyhound’s family to commit to a comprehensive dental care routine. This includes regular tooth brushing, ideally on a daily basis, to prevent the buildup of plaque and tartar. Using a toothbrush and toothpaste specifically designed for dogs ensures effective cleaning and minimizes the risk of oral health issues.

In addition to home care, annual veterinary dental cleanings are essential. These professional cleanings allow veterinarians to thoroughly examine your dog’s mouth, identify any potential problems, and perform deep cleanings that are not possible with home brushing alone. These cleanings can prevent more serious health issues by addressing problems early on.

Incorporating dental treats into your Italian Greyhound’s routine is also a great idea. Dental treats are specially formulated to help reduce plaque and tartar buildup while providing a tasty reward for your dog. Chewing on these treats can help keep their teeth clean between brushings and veterinary visits.

By being proactive and diligent about dental care, you can help prevent dental disease and ensure that your Italian Greyhound maintains a healthy, pain-free mouth. Regular brushing, annual cleanings, and dental treats are all vital components of a successful dental care regimen for your beloved pet.

What Kind of Dog Are You Looking For?

One of the most significant deciding factors when adopting any breed is whether the breed of dog is suited for the family or workplace. For example, a family with young children looking for a playmate to roughhouse with should never consider bringing home an IG due to their petite bodies and thin legs. This family would be better suited to a bigger breed such as a Labrador. Conversely, a family with older children who understand and respect dogs may be the perfect home.

What Personality Type Is The Italian Greyhounds?

The Italian greyhound tends towards nervousness and neuroses, requiring a balanced approach to care. This breed’s sensitive nature means that owners need to provide a stable and calm environment to help their dog feel secure and confident. It’s essential to strike a balance between offering comfort and not overly coddling the dog, as excessive pampering can exacerbate anxiety and insecurity.

A family that always picks up their smaller dog and “babies” them is not ideal for an Italian greyhound. Overprotectiveness can lead to increased dependency and heightened nervousness, making the dog more prone to stress in new or unfamiliar situations. Instead, it is important to foster a sense of independence and resilience in the dog.

Socialization is a key component in managing an Italian greyhound’s nervous tendencies. Gradually exposing them to different environments, people, and other animals can help build their confidence. Positive reinforcement training techniques, such as rewarding calm behavior and providing gentle encouragement, can also be effective in reducing anxiety.

Creating a predictable routine can further alleviate stress for an Italian greyhound. Regular feeding times, consistent exercise schedules, and a stable daily routine can provide a sense of security. Additionally, providing a quiet and safe space where the dog can retreat when feeling overwhelmed can be beneficial.

Physical exercise and mental stimulation are equally important. Engaging in regular play, training sessions, and interactive activities can help channel their energy and reduce nervous behavior. It’s also crucial to handle the dog gently but firmly, avoiding sudden movements or loud noises that could startle them.

While Italian greyhounds do tend toward nervousness and neuroses, a balanced approach to care can help mitigate these tendencies. By promoting independence, providing socialization opportunities, maintaining a predictable routine, and offering gentle yet firm handling, owners can help their Italian greyhound lead a happier, more confident life.

So, are Italian greyhounds good for first-time owners? Yes, if…

• Someone in the family is at home regularly or works in a dog-friendly workplace.
• The household is an active one and everybody loves affection and an extra shadow following them all day and every day.
• There are no young children or small animals in the house. Children may break the Italian Greyhound’s bones and the Greyhound may break the small animals.
• Structured, consistent, and dedicated training is a priority  

Italian Greyhounds are one of our favourite breeds of dog for the office due to their Elegancy, gracefulness and kind-hearted. They are truly a man’s best friend. The Italian greyhound is very established. The breed is over 2,000 years old. Italian Greyhounds refuse to be ignored and love to be held! They require extra care in cold weather, so if you are considering one of these fantastic breeds, make sure your office and home are cosy enough… And obviously, you need a lot of time.