Italian Greyhound - photos and description of the breed

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It is known that these dogs belong to the ancient breeds, and the found mention of the Italian greyhound refers to the period of ancient Rome and even earlier period. True, it has not yet been possible to find out exactly where these dogs originated from, but according to two common versions they could come from Greece or Turkey, Egypt or the Persian state.

The dog was named after the Italian greyhound or Italian Greyhound because the breed was very popular among the aristocrats of Italy during the Renaissance. From this country, she first came to the territory of England. The gregarious dogs, but larger, were the progenitors of the IGs. They were popular with the Greeks and Romans, as evidenced by their images on objects of art. It is not known exactly when, but images and smaller greyhounds began to appear.

How small dogs began to appear, and for what purpose they were taken, is still unclear. There is an opinion that they were used as hunters for small game, such as hares, or rodent pests. But the idea that the small greyhounds were exclusively companions, the idea is not excluded, since there is no evidence of other theories. There is also no authentic evidence of whether small greyhounds are direct ancestors of the IGs, but scientists are inclined to this version.

In the 16th and 17th centuries, dogs became so popular that it was possible to meet them in almost any European state. Since the Greyhounds were the only greyhound at that time, the Italian Greyhounds were also called, but with the addition of Italian. This led to the erroneous belief that the IGs are dwarf greyhounds, but in fact they have nothing to do with them. In other countries, they began to dignify Levriero (translated from IT. Greyhound).

A small part of the representatives of this breed were used for hunting, but most of the dogs were companions. Only in the 17th century, tribal books began to appear, and the breeders of England began to enter data about their dogs in them. In the middle of the 19th century, exhibitions of tetrapods began to take place everywhere; these events became very popular. This fact led the breeders to standardize their pets; this fate did not avoid the IGs.

Thanks to breeding work, these dogs acquired a more elegant appearance and immediately attracted everyone’s attention at exhibitions. However, breeders are fond of miniaturization of the breed, which adversely affects its representatives. They lose their proportionality and often suffer from defects. As a result, at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries, a club of this breed was formed, the main task of which was to return the original appearance of the Iurets and eliminate the harm of breeding.

As with other breeds, World Wars have negatively affected miniature greyhounds. Their population has declined critically, and has almost disappeared in England. But it is the American cynologists who are saving the case, since the IGs have long taken root in the States. Then there began to arise clubs, the main purpose of which was the revival of the breed. At that time, the breeders could not only return the Italian greyhounds, but also contribute to their spread throughout the world.

Today, Italian Greyhound is an amazing little companion, pleasing and entertaining its owners.

Description of breed Italian Greyhound

Modern little greyhound is the result of long selection work. Breeders managed to improve their speed performance, and greyhound can reach speeds of up to 40 km / h, which exceeds the capabilities of other similar dogs by 10 km / h.

Breed dog Italian greyhound - photo

Speaking in the ring, Italian greyhound can boast of grace, grace of movements and aristocratic article:

Housing: Weighty greyhound weighs 2.5-4.5 kg. According to the standard, the length of the body is either equal to or slightly less than its height. The average height of dogs is 38 cm. The back is straight, with a slightly rounded loin, smoothly turning into croup. The chest is narrow, but strong and powerful, has a pronounced arch, passing into the abdomen.
Tail for the Italian Greyhounds it is rather thin, of decent length, the end is curved. With the development of high speeds, it provides the animal with a balance in turns.
Limbs equipped with lean muscles, they are of good length and thin at the same time, with oval legs and firmly assembled fingers. Claws pigmented with dark color.
Head slightly streamlined, elongated, with pronounced eyebrows and flattened cheekbones. The pigmentation of the lobe is dark, it has well-opened nostrils. The muzzle of the IGs is pointed, elongated, the lips are dark, fit snugly. Jaws are long with a scissor bite. Eyes with dark iris, expressive look. The lids are decorated with a dark border. The ears have a high landing, in the area of the base they are raised, and at the tips they are slightly pulled back. When the Italian Greyhound is alert, they stand vertically.
Coat has no undercoat, the coat itself is dense, shiny, perfectly adheres to the skin. There are three suits of Italian greyhounds - black, gray with a blue tint and "isabella".

Character little greyhounds

Tenderness and humility - these are the main characteristics of the IGs. They are distinguished by exceptional devotion, they know how to carefully and faithfully listen to their master. They are not characterized by destructive behavior, but this can happen if the dog is bored, subjected to physical violence or falls into stressful situations.

They are distinguished by playfulness and advanced intelligence; these are important qualities for excellent family companions. It is impossible to use rigidity in dealing with the IGs, as they can be very worried about this. Miniature greyhounds feel good in a relaxed family atmosphere, devoid of tension and clarify the relationship. They feel the mood of their owners. If the Italian Greyhound got into a not very comfortable situation, then it is important to stroke and cheer her up.

These Italian dogs are rather shy and are irritable if you scare them. They may also be worried and confused. This may create some difficulties with their content. The amazing quality of the IGs - run, they easily develop incredible speed. It is not difficult for them to jump on the fence, jump off any elevations, which is very traumatic for their thin limbs.

Italian greyhound has little contact with representatives of large breeds, since they have no protection against them. But they get on well with their own kind, they can be kept in pairs. But cohabitation with cats and other small pets is not recommended, as they frighten other animals with their barking. The same applies to small children. Keeping an Italian greyhound is not so simple, but if you follow certain rules, it can be an excellent family member, albeit with its own characteristics.

See more greyhound breeds.

How to care for Italian greyhound

The advantage of levretok is the absence of unpleasant odor. They also molt very little. Bathe these dogs only when necessary, using detergents for smooth-haired breeds. Some owners simply wipe their pets with a damp cloth. You only need to wash your pet's paws after each walk. Combing Italian greyhound is not necessary.

Dog Italian Greyhound - photo

Ears should be regularly inspected, but they should be cleaned only with significant contamination. It is best to use special lotions. The eyes are not problematic to care, as they are enough to wipe with a piece of cotton or a disc from the outer corner of the eye to the inner. But this is done only when necessary.

But the teeth should be cleaned by the IGs regularly; for this purpose, special means should be purchased at the veterinary pharmacy. Italian greyhounds are very active, so in the summer you do not need to carry out the procedure for cutting the claws, they are worn naturally. And in the winter, it is extremely necessary to do this.

The best food for any dog is a special, well-balanced diet. However, today manufacturers do not produce specially adapted feed for the IGs.

The peculiarity of the dogs of this breed is that with all its subtlety and elegance, they withstand incredible physical stress. So it is worth paying much attention to feeding your pet. The basis of the diet should be the meat part - meat with low fat content and high-quality offal. Groats in the diet is needed, but in small quantities. To saturate the diet with nutrients is not difficult, since they do not refuse fruits, berries, vegetables. But you should not forget about additional vitamin and mineral supplements.

Do not underestimate the appetite of IGs, given their mobility, they eat quite a lot. But all the calories they consume are burned naturally. Since the Italian greyhound is not adapted to cold weather conditions and precipitation, the owners often teach their pets to the home toilet (filled tray).

Long walking tours are possible only in sunny, windless weather. The Levrits do not like the wind very much, and they are trying to close themselves with their paws.

Photo Italian Greyhound

Italian greyhound puppies - photo

Price and purchase of Italian Greyhound puppies

If there is a desire to have such an elegant animal, then you should know that this breed is not cheap and not very common. Although there are kennels in large cities, you may have to go to another city to get your future pet.

In Russia, a puppy of this breed, intended only as a companion, costs about 25,000-30000 rubles. Puppies of the show class, future champions of exhibitions and active followers of the breed will cost a bit more expensive - 30000-45000 rubles.

Italian greyhound is a doggie with a fine mental organization in need of care and affection. They should not be brought to families with a large number of noisy children or with a malevolent atmosphere. With proper care, the Italian Greyhound can become a true devoted friend.

Characteristics of the breed Italian greyhound

Italian greyhound (small Italian greyhound, Italian Greyhound) - room - decorative breed. Ideal for greyhounds who, for various reasons, cannot afford to keep a big dog.

This little dog is very graceful and elegant, it resembles an old graceful statue.

In its habits, the Italian Greyhound is much like a cat, likes to bask in the sun, does not tolerate cold and rain, many are accustomed to the tray to enjoy, just to not go outside once more.

They will become for you a devoted and reliable friend, this is a dog of one owner. But he loves and respects all family members.

The initial task is to become a faithful companion and companion, always accompany and warm the owner. They love to sit on their hands, and can do it for hours.

History breed Italian greyhound

The Little Hound appeared in the Mediterranean more than two thousand years ago, in the areas where modern Greece and Turkey are located, they are considered the birthplace of the Italian Greyhound.

In the 16th century in Italy, it became very popular among rich people. The Italian Greyhound served as a court dog, like any other miniature breed. With their grace and sophisticated look, they decorated the royal courts, became the favorites of many royal persons.

An interesting fact, some sources claim that the King of Prussia contained 50 Italian IGs.

The famous phrase: “The more I recognize people, the more I love dogs” - the world heard from his mouth.
In the Middle Ages, the Italian Greyhound appeared in southern Europe.

During the Renaissance or Renaissance, they gained great popularity and became a symbol of wealth and luxury. They are often depicted on expensive canvases in order to convey the wealth and greatness of the owner in the picture.

Italian greyhound in the circle of Italian aristocrats has always been considered the favorite, for the court ladies they served as an expensive accessory or decoration.

Perhaps that is why the Italian name stuck to her.
As a result of breeding, with a small weight of 2.5 - 4.5 kg, and a miniature size, all signs of their large fellow greyhound were preserved.

The small greyhound runs fast, it reaches a speed of up to 40 km / h, which is 10 km / h faster than any other small breed dogs.

He has excellent dexterity and flair, keen hearing and excellent eyesight.

Color of Italian greyhound

Italian Greyhound photo near the Christmas tree

White
Auburn (all shades)
The black
Sand
Blue
Gray
Dark grey
The black
Fawn (any shade)
Cream
Isabella (lilac)
Pied (with the exception of black - under the pogo or tiger)

Italian greyhound character

By nature, the Italian Greyhound is a sweet, gentle, kind creature, with a big loving heart and charming eyes.

Depending on the temperament of the host, the Italian Greyhound is different: playful, docile, sedate, or quite capricious. From a puppy you can grow one that is right for you.

They do not need long walks, although they love to walk in the fresh air, and it is even useful for them. But you will not pester if you decide to cancel the walk. Easily accustomed to the tray.

Italian greyhound is so graceful dog that it is called a dog - a cat. Together with grace and grace, they are extremely hardy. Nature has rewarded this small dog with excellent musculature, it is easy to train, and can perform various tricks.

They are gentle and trembling, many of them are naturally timid. Keep them can lonely people who will love, protect and cherish.

And families with active children of school age, with whom the dog can run and frolic. For families with small children, this is not the best option.

Get along well with other pets, dogs or cats.

Not bad for training, but it is worth starting with 3 months of age, because the Greyhound are shy and nervous by nature.

Be sure to learn, are not afraid of street noise, loud music and other things. They need early socialization, introduce them to the outside world, other dogs, let them communicate with children.

On a walk, the Italian baby is better to keep on a leash. Because of the strong development of the hunting instinct, she can ignore the commands, and simply run away after a birdie or a cat. And if she runs away, you can't catch her.

Italian greyhound care

Italian greyhound smooth-haired with short, smooth, soft and shiny hair. She is very clean, there is no specific unpleasant "dog smell".

Does not need special and complex care. Most of all she needs your care, love and attention.

Wool: comb it once a week with a special mitten or brush made from natural bristles. This will be a great massage and improve circulation.

Bathing: once in 10 days, or as far as pollution. Shampoo choose soft, for short-haired breeds. After bathing, wipe well with a towel, drying, try to use less, dry air leads to flaking and reddening of the skin.

Eyes: healthy eyes, small greyhound, without souring and tearing. To prevent souring, wipe the eyes of the dog once a week with a damp soft cloth dipped in a warm tea brew. For redness, swelling, or severe acidification, do not self-medicate, but be sure to contact your veterinarian for help.

Claws and paws: regularly inspect and wipe with a damp cloth after walking. Claws cut with a claw, once a month. Smooth sharp ends with a nail file. Always remember the fifth profitable finger, it is shorter than the others and the claw on it is not erased.

Up to 1.5 years, especially closely follow the pet. They have thin bones that strengthen with age. Do not allow to jump from a sofa or high stages in order to avoid injury, fractures and lameness.

Ears: regularly inspect, wash it with a cotton pad dipped in warm water.
There are also special tools for cleaning the ears, you can find them in the vet pharmacy.

Teeth: inspect, once a week should be cleaned with a special toothpaste with a brush or attachment to the finger. In the pet store there is a wide selection of different brushes and toothpaste, and which one is better to choose, consult with a veterinarian. It is necessary to teach a dog to brush teeth from two months, then it will calmly react to this unpleasant procedure. To prevent tartar, add fresh tomato slices to your diet.

Clothing: with very short hair, these dogs are sensitive to cold. In cold weather, rain or snow, wear overalls or a sweater.

In the apartment you can not wear the Italian greyhound, what would happen a little hardening of the body.
Live greyhound with good care long enough. Up to old age they keep a good physical form.

You can buy an Italian greyhound in a special nursery, or from a breeder, because this breed is gaining more and more popularity.

Italian greyhound food

Nutrition, one of the main points in its content. It is on what you feed your pet that his condition and activity will depend. Despite its sophisticated appearance, Italian Greyhound is characterized by good health, and the right choice of food will ensure its activity for many years.

Breeders constantly argue on the topic: “what is the best way to feed the Italian Greyhound?”, Each has its own sound arguments on this topic.

Для собак существует два вида кормления :

натуральной пищей
готовыми сухими кормами

Если вы выберете кормление сухим кормом, всегда следите, что бы он был высокого класса «премиум», а питомец после кормления обязательно получал достаточное количество воды.

У такого питания существуют свои плюсы :

его не надо готовить
легко брать с собой в дорогу
он долго не портиться
порция указана на упаковке
when the dog gnaws hard food, the teeth are cleaned of stone

expensive
liver load

When choosing to feed herringbone with natural food, remember that it should be fresh, at room temperature, made from healthy food for the dog.

List of useful products:

porridge (rice, buckwheat)
meat is not fat with cartilage and veins (beef, turkey, chicken breasts, before eating, scald with boiling water or boil slightly, drain the broth, it can not be given)
sometimes offal (heart, liver, lungs and the scar must be boiled)
lactic acid products (low-fat cottage cheese, kefir, ryazhenka)
seasonal vegetables and fruits (give caution, in small portions, monitor allergic reactions)
1 tsp. sunflower, olive oil per day (add to food, you can refuel vegetable and fruit salads)
scar (boil, pour out broth)
fish (only sea, boneless)
greenery

Prohibited products for Italian greyhound:

smoked meats
fatty meat (pork)
seasoning
legumes
chocolate
sweets
sweet pastry
bird bones
bread

Never mix in one feeding natural food and dry food, it leads to a disorder of the gastrointestinal tract in dogs.

Rules of maintenance and care

Italian greyhounds are so gentle and thin dogs that street content does not fully suit them. She should live in warmth and sleep on a soft, comfortable bedding.

It is necessary to pay special attention to the wool of the animal. It must be wiped with a rubber brush once every two days. And as the pollution of wool to produce bathing. Often you should not wash the dog, as this can lead to the development of skin diseases.

It is worth paying special attention to the wool of the animal

Feeding. Since some members of this breed may suffer from allergic reactions to food, then its choice should be approached especially carefully. It is better to opt for ready-made dry or wet food of the professional class.

Dwarf greyhounds are endowed with an excellent metabolism. That is why an adult dog can be fed once a day. This will save her from obesity and associated diseases.

As for walks. Italian greyhound is a fairly strong dog. She loves to run in the open without a leash. To walk a dog must be at least twice a day, time - at least 50 minutes. This is especially important in childhood and adolescence.

The nature of Italian greyhound

Dogs of this breed are by nature gentle and submissive. His whole being is strongly dependent on the master and faithful entirely.

If the attitude to the Italian greyhound is calm, good-natured and filled with love, then they behave perfectly. Give the owner what they get.

They love children very much and will watch them carefully. They make excellent nannies.

If the Italian Greyhound is frightened or under stress, then nervousness and panic behavior begin to predominate in her character. Get out of this state is very difficult. Only caress and approval can return her to normal psychological well-being.

Levretki not inclined to aggression

Training

For such a dog in the period of the formation and development of the psyche it is imperative to complete a course of full socialization. This will give her courage and courage in the future.

The Italian Greyhound understands its owner very well and distinguishes the intonation of the voice perfectly. In order not to lose the trust of the dog and not turn it into a closed bundle of nerves, you do not need to raise your voice and, all the more, physically punish.

You can raise a decent representative of the breed by yourself. This is quite intelligent and clever dog.

Training is recommended to carry out almost immediately. The only thing you need to give the puppy a couple - three days to adapt to new conditions.

But training in outdoor conditions is recommended to begin at the age of 3 - 4 months.

Puppy cost

Breeders can be purchased for about 25,000 rubles. In nurseries, the price is much higher and ranges from 60 to 150,000 rubles. But if the dog in the future will not participate in exhibitions, and decided to buy it for the soul, the price will be significantly lower than 10,000 rubles.

The cost of an Italian greyhound puppy from 25 000 rubles

There are quite a lot of nurseries where they are engaged in breeding the Italian borzoi in Russia. The most famous are:

"House of Hounds", Moscow.
"Constellation Cassiopeia", Tula.
"Vento Venturo", Perm.
“Fier plot”, Yekaterinburg.

Breeding characteristics

Sexual maturity of dogs occurs at the age of 24 months. At an earlier age it is not recommended to cross the Italian Greyhound. Since puppies will be weak, and genetic diseases will make themselves known.

Italian greyhound, though small, but still a greyhound. She gets along well with adults and children, but it is best to prevent her from communicating with small pets, such as ornamental rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, and so on. In relation to them, the Levretki may manifest hunting instincts. With larger animals, the dog perfectly finds a common language.

Appearance

It is easiest to describe an Italian greyhound as a graceful dog in a greyhound type - lean, light and elegant. Height at withers is from 32 to 38 cm, weight is not more than 5 kg. The muscles are dry, sufficiently developed and strong. The format is usually square, but the length of the body may be slightly less than the height at the withers.

The loin is slightly curved and goes harmoniously to the inclined croup. Chest narrow, lowered to the elbows - strong and elegant, without angularity. The belly is well tucked up, the bottom line passes from the chest to the belly gracefully. The long, thin tail of the Italian Greyhound is set low, the lower part smoothly bends upwards.

The forelimbs according to the description of the standard of the breed of the Italian Greyhound are set straight up - vertically and parallel, without turning in or out. The hind limbs are also straight, with well-defined angles and long muscular thighs. Fingers in the ball, so-called. cat feet

In the photo - a dog and a bitch of Italian Italian Breeding Italian Greyhound (Livorno's Mahicalli Adelaida & Migel).

The skull is flat and slightly rounded at the sides, the lines of the skull and muzzle are parallel when viewed from the side. The ratio of the length of the muzzle to the skull is 1: 1. The muzzle is necessarily a long wedge, slightly pointed. And always well filled under the eyes, without cavities. The length of the head is approximately equal to the length of the neck and about 40% of the height at the withers.

Ears are thin, set high. The base of the ear is on the cartilage, and the cloth is bent back to the neck. When the Italian Italian Greyhound is interested in something, the lower part of the ears rises a little, and the thin cloths are retracted horizontally to the sides.

The skin is thin, always well fitting without pegs. The coat is very short and thin all over the body, with no traces of hair. Colors: black, isabella (red) and gray of any shades. White spots are allowed on paws and chest. Mandatory full and dark edging of the eyelids, lips, nose-tips for all colors, including very light beige shades.

What is "old type"?

The so-called "old type" in the breed of Italian Greyhound is the consequences of mating of closely related individuals and the inflow of blood of dwarf breeds. And this is all that no side climbs into the standard FCI. And there is no division into types according to appearance or growth! Such Greyhound really existed in the past, because before, too, was the fashion for extremely small dogs. Bright signs of "old type":

round apple head
bulging eyes
short face
poorly filled muzzle
excessively bent humped back
too thin legs and / or generally too light bones

The severity of "old-type" may be different. But if you hear this definition in relation to the selected puppy, we recommend contacting another kennel. Such individuals, if this supposed "type" is pronounced, often suffer from birth defects, painfully excitable and difficult to train.

An example of an undesirable exterior described above: a heaped pelvis, excessive “humpback”, a damp neck, a narrow sunken chest, paws with almost no muscles.

Character and relationship

Most Italian Levretok are very attached to the family, needing a huge amount of attention daily. They like to sit on their hands, climb on their knees, sleep under a common blanket. According to the owners, all the Italian Greyhounds adore “kissing” and hugging the owner with their paws by the neck.

They are jealous, sometimes to the extreme. Despite their size, they are almost always leaders in the company of dogs.

Perfectly get on with other non-aggressive dogs and even cats, if they do not try to offend the crumbs. They are pleased to participate in children's games. But a preschooler can easily harm an elegant doggie, so it is better to buy a puppy when the child is 5-7 years old.

To strangers Italian greyhounds are more often indifferent, although they can meet with loud barking, jumping around. This is not aggression, but a manifestation of the excitability of the central nervous system (read myth 1). After some time, they themselves go to get acquainted, but without kowtow in front of a stranger and constantly watching the reaction of the owner.

Yes, the Italian Greyhound can be enchantingly funny (photo sent by Natalia, a visitor to our site).

Upbringing and training

They are well trained, literally grasping everything on the fly. This is one of the advantages of their nervous system - a good reaction, quick assessment of the situation, attentiveness to trifles. Frisbee, Ajili, freestyle, kursing, obedience - they are all on the shoulder.

The problem is that these are dogs of "fine mental organization." Given the increased excitability, the nature of the Italian Greyhound can be described as a jumped ball thrown against the wall. Trying to stop him or catch him is a simple idea.

Engage in training should be after a walk or an active game, when the pet has a little spilled energy. This is true for all dogs, but for the Italian Lev in particular. To promote delicacies are perfect. And as a punishment, a rather strict voice or half an hour of ignoring is already tough for an extremely affectionate dog.

In the opinion of most of the owners of the Italian Greyhound, at home they do not train their pets. That is, the training of "good manners" takes place as a communication contented or, if an oversight is made, in a strict tone. Italian greyhounds really sensitively feel the mood of a person, so a strict drill more likely to harm.

As usual, the authors of krohotun.com advise for a more complete understanding of watching the video, from which it is easier to get your own idea of the character of the Italian Greyhound:

Content Features

Breed attractive in terms of housing content. No wool - even during the molting period, a couple of brush strokes are enough daily, therefore it is conditionally hypoallergenic.

Small size. Healthy eyes and ears, no tangles and dirt, i.e. They do not require increased attention to hygiene.

However, there are points that need to be taken into account and be prepared for them. These nuances even caused a misconception about them - hysterical, fearful, fragile, etc.

If the following description of the breed does not seem to please you, do not start the Italian Greyhound.

Myth 1: about shakes and puddles

Most Levretok reviews - typical choleric. The nervous system works like this: the peak of arousal comes instantly, and it takes time to return to balance. Such a scheme is ideal for a greyhound - excellent response and excitement of persecution, not letting go until victory.

In most cases, the aggression of the Italian Greyhound (especially in relation to the owner) is evidence of psychological problems as a result of miscalculations in education.

The puppy has little life experience, and the internal mechanisms are still "not tuned." Together with the excitable nervous system, it often shakes and sometimes can even write for itself:

at the sight of strangers, a big dog, a loud sudden sound
from anticipation of a walk, at the sight of a package of delicacy, of joy
having appeared in an unfamiliar place, at changes of the house, feeling a new smell

Many owners take this behavior for fear (although in most cases it is just arousal). The puppy of the Italian Greyhound is tiny, its paws are thin, and it is even shaking - how not to regret it, not calm it down?

We speak gently, iron, take the pens. AND we fix absolutely unnecessary, harmful to the health of the dog behavior! It is not surprising that an adult pet shakes from any rustling and leaves puddles everywhere, because the owner has approved.

Socialization rules

It is extremely important to strengthen the nervous system of the Italian Greyhound, especially in the first year of life.

communicate and meet, go to noisy places. But in any case, do not let the young / untrained dog off the leash - you will never catch it, it is a greyhound!
Middle distance running speed trained person does not exceed 23 km / h. The levretka from a place easily develops a speed of 40 km / h.
Do not touch the puppy when it is "scared." Affectionate touch or handing is perceived as encouraging uncertainty in situations unfamiliar to the puppy.
speak to the "frightened" baby in a surprised or mocking tone, "What are you doing this for?". But do not push away from the legs - he must feel your protection, even when there is no real need for it.
when it is possible, touch that which puzzled the puppy - so you can prove the safety of the "monster"
put a soft house in the room. Strictly prohibit children by force to pull the baby out of his "shelter". Let the pet have a place where he feels absolutely confident.

A well-socialized dog is happy herself, and brings only pleasure to the owner.

Myth 2: about cold and hunger

Levretki really do not like the cold, but they like to eat well. They have a fast metabolism required by a greyhound - it should be easy to lift, not wallowing half a day with a full stomach. Plus short hair and dry muscles, i.e. It takes a lot of energy to maintain body temperature (and it needs to be replenished).

Italian greyhound should be fed at least three times a day, in small portions. The diet is necessarily balanced. They are absolutely not suitable for a single meal. In this case, you need to make sure that the pet remains in condition, not overgrown with grease on handouts from the table.

Walks are extremely important for the Italian Greyhound's health - eating a lot, without movement, it will certainly grow fat. And without constant feeding with new emotions, it will quickly turn into a shaking neurasthenic.

This is hard to believe, but we really have the Italian Italian Greyhound.

Do not give in to pity and your own unwillingness to leave a warm apartment. Walk daily in any weather, at least in -30. The real danger to health is not cold, but drafts - they should be avoided.

With toy terriers, naked Chinese crested dogs and Xoloitzcuintle, they walk in the rain and in winter. The Italian Greyhound is no different in this respect. Of course, the dog should be dressed for the weather, and walks in the frost should be reduced. On how to make their own clothes for Italian Greyhound, we wrote in the manual.

Myth 3: about fragility and jumping ability

A properly bred dog breed Italian Greyhound has strong, "iron" musculature. She easily jumps into place on the hands of an adult. Overcomes barriers exposed to fellows, five times taller than them.

In the period from 3 to 9 months, the puppy is growing rapidly - the bones and muscles are actively developing, but so far not in condition. Therefore, a pet should be protected from possible injuries for up to a year, strengthening the skeleton and muscular corset.

It is in motion - unrestrained, reckless, the Italian Greyhound realizes the potential hidden in it. And not so much physical, how much emotional (photo from a race for a mechanical hare, Austria).

Puppy Precautions

put the "steps" near the windowsills and sofas, so that the baby goes down in stages,
lay slippery floors, move chairs away from the tables (climb, and jump down directly to the floor - they are not afraid of heights),
do not allow children to take a crumb in their arms (puppies are very brisk, they can wriggle out of the hands of even an inattentive adult),
close the windows and the balcony door when the pet is alone in the room. Young Levretki often fall out of the windows due to irrepressible curiosity and cat dexterity,
run a lot, walk in safe places. Without active regular games and walks, the puppy will really grow into a fragile dog that will break its paws on level ground.

Italian greyhound is a strong and very hardy breed. Of course, with proper conditions of detention and genetic health. Problems may arise during childbirth: large puppies are usually born in the litter.

It is important to closely monitor the dental system. Teeth strong, bite normal - scissors. But there is a tendency to the rapid growth of stone and gum disease. Therefore, it is necessary either to brush your teeth regularly or to go to the vet once a year to remove plaque.

In the breed's genome there are several eye diseases - dystrophy, glaucoma, cataracts, and others. Light (genetically clarified) Italian Greyhound has alopecia. This disease leads to baldness of some parts of the body or the whole dog. Not treated, spontaneous. Therefore, it is better to choose a puppy with well pigmented lips, eyelids and nose.

Genetically, some dogs are prone to diseases of the musculoskeletal system, cardiovascular and urinary systems. But without strict specificity - there are similar problems in all breeds.

Of course, the choice of Puppy of Italian Greyhound should be approached responsibly. Too low price and the breeder’s reluctance to let you into the nursery should be alerted. And if the litter is not registered (there is no stigma and metrics), contact another nursery. Read more about choosing a puppy here.

general description

Среди декоративных пород собак мы чаще всего слышим про той-терьеров и пуделей, шпицев, а вот борзая итальянская остается как-то за кадром. Но на самом деле забыта она совершенно напрасно и незаслуженно. В отличие от многих других пород, эта прекрасно подходит для неопытных владельцев, так как не требует специальных навыков дрессировки. The height at the withers does not exceed 38 centimeters, and the average weight is 3 kg. Italian Greyhound will forever give your heart to one and only master. 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 perfectly fulfills these functions, as she adores sitting on her hands and is ready to do this for hours on end.

Modern look

The little Italian greyhound deserved such love precisely for its modest size. In many ways, thanks to the aristocratic appearance of the dog gained popularity among the ladies of the court, who used them as expensive accessories. It is not surprising that the breeding work, which began to be conducted with this breed, was aimed at maintaining precisely this trait. That is, as a result, a miniature size and weight of up to 4 kilograms was fixed. By these signs today we will recognize the modern IGF.

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

Breed format

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

Special attention deserves the body of the dog. Typically greyhound, dry, elegant, with light bones, swift and dynamic. The musculature is thin but well developed. The chest is very deep and narrow, the ribs are long, and the loin is slightly curved. In principle, this miracle is not suitable for serious work, which can be seen at a glance. Decorative Italian Greyhound has a short, shiny and thick coat. Her skin is thin, tight, without folds.

Pretty long, flat, narrow and necessarily dry. There can be no folds or fleas in it. The skull is long, and the transition to the face is very smooth. Ears - characteristic of hunting breeds, thin, hanging on cartilage, they are located high. In a quiet state, they are lowered to the side, and if the dog is alert, they become vertical.

The eyes are infinitely intelligent, large, dark and expressive. Probably due in large part to this view, many lovers of the breed have chosen the Italian greyhound for themselves. Their eyes are attentive, very intelligent, 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 line of the neck.

Limbs

The Italian greyhound dog has a peculiar body structure, which may seem strange to a person who is unfamiliar with the characteristics of the breed. Their backs are strong, muscular and bulging, the loins are short, and the croup is long, slightly sloping. The latter 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 belly. 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. Shoulders slightly sharp, elbows pressed to chest. The forearms are strong, with thin, but strong bones and developed muscles. Hind limbs straight, parallel to each other. The hips and knees are muscular, the knee and hock joints are well defined. All these features are more needed by professionals, and a simple man in the street will immediately notice the characteristic movements: quick and graceful, elegant and straightforward.

Dog character

What is the Italian greyhound at home for its owners? A description of each of them would take many pages, since for a loving person this is the sweetest 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 be very different, but more often than not an exact copy of yourself will grow from your puppy. Italian greyhound can be playful or sedate, docile or capricious.

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 love to go out in the fresh air, and they are easily accustomed to the tray. This is a very graceful creature, they are also called cat dogs. But along with the grace and grace of the Italian greyhound are incredibly resilient. Nature rewarded this crumb with excellent musculature. She is easy to train and in a short time she learns to perform various tricks.

Dog food

If you buy a miniature dog, then this question should be paid special attention. Usually they have a specific metabolism, and only specialized foods with a high content of nutrients are able to provide the body with all necessary. The reason is simple: a tiny stomach can not process the amount of ordinary food, sufficient to maintain strength.

However, do not be confused. It is one thing bred decorative dogs, and quite another - the Italian greyhound. The breed of dog is miniature, but it does not complain at all about the state of health. Experienced breeders say that Italian greyhound is best fed with natural food. To do this, you will need lean meat with cartilage and veins. It can be beef or turkey, chicken. Before use, the meat will need to scald with boiling water or slightly boil, but pour the broth, it can not be given.

Additionally cook crumbly porridge, it can be buckwheat or rice. Do not forget about the benefits of dairy products. Cottage cheese, kefir and ryazhenka will be a great addition to the dog's diet. Seasonal vegetables and fruits, sea fish without stones, greens - all this must also be present on the table. Do not forget about vitamin and mineral supplements.

Prohibited

Italian greyhound puppies are amazingly cute creatures who want to indulge 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 to refuse the crumbs in the products from your table. Most of this is harmful to her, but something is simply dangerous.

Prohibited products for greyhound are smoked meats, fatty meats and seasonings. So, the question of whether it is possible to give the dog soup or the second, prepared for family members, is decided unequivocally. The same list includes beans and chocolate, any sweets and pastries, chicken bones and bread.

If you are a busy person, then perhaps the best way out would be to use ready-made feeds. However, there are a number of rules. First you need to choose a quality product. To do this, consult your veterinarian and read the information on the composition of the packages. In the first place should be meat, but corn and gluten is better that it was not at all. This feed has several advantages. You do not need to cook it, you can take it with you on the road, it does not spoil for a long time, and the portion required for a day is indicated on the package. Do not forget that you can not mix natural and ready-made feed, it leads to indigestion. Therefore, make a choice, stick to one power scheme.

Dog care

Smooth greyhound with short, smooth, soft and shiny coat does not require special skills from the dog owner. The Italian Greyhound (the photo is given in the article) is a very neat dog that completely lacks the smell of dog. She does not need special and difficult care, grooming or haircut, the main thing is your love and attention.

Wool practically does not need special events, it is enough to comb it once a week with a special mitten or a soft brush. They like to swim, and they can perform this procedure 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, with no tendency to sour 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 cleaned and inspected after walking. Claws are recommended to be cut about once a month. These dogs are very sensitive to cold, so you must keep them at home. For walking 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 healthy breed, however, these mobile and cheerful crumbs can get sick. Among the ailments that are inherent in these dogs, glaucoma and juvenile cataracts are most common. That is why the slightest changes in the condition of the eyes should cause an immediate visit to the veterinarian. This list can be continued to include progressive atrophy of the retina and corneal dystrophy. Epilepsy and cryptorchism, alopecia and baldness occur in the IGs.

Instead of 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 quite difficult to find. Cheerful, contact, very smart and friendly creatures, they conquer at first sight. If you grow one Italian greyhound, you will most likely 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 care and training. From you and do not need anything special. The main thing is to love the pet with all your heart, and he will answer you the same. Today we discussed all the most important points that need to be paid attention to the future and present owner, now the choice is yours.